Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
You’re Still Mine by Lexi Jayde
The angsty melodramatic palm-muted tones in this track beautifully build into the catchy chant-able choruses. Think Olivia Rodrigo-meets-Sabrina-Carpenter but with an added edge and slightly more mature topics (so listen cautiously, because this one definitely isn’t for kids). The storyline is all about the ending of a relationship that still lingers in your mind — for better or worse. I also loved the rhyme scheme and the way all the parts of this song connect so fluently without being too cheesy.
Powers and the People
At the Time in New York by James Tonic
Atmospheric tones blend effortlessly with smooth vocals written all about the slice-of-life experience of living in New York. It’s bright, fun, and contemporary with a hint of techno-pop sprinkled in. If you like artists like the 1975, you’ll enjoy this tune. I especially loved the 80s-vibes that are especially strong after the first chorus. This one is just begging to be your next workday soundtrack, so turn it up and listen loud.
This song is a bit heavier emotionally, but it really outlines the simultaneous feeling of love and loss when someone isn’t willing to commit to you. It’s got bright percussion, some synth in the background, and a nice ambient flow and cadence that you’ll have to hear to believe. The lyrics beautifully depict the heart-wrenching reality of what it means to let go of something that’s still begging you to hang on — at least a little. If you’re feeling stuck in a similar romantic dynamic, this song will be a source of comfort for you.
Lingua Franca by Powers and the People
I loved how this song has a vibe all its own, right from the beginning. Scratchy, rhythmic guitars take a syncopated approach and bounce off the sultry vocals that feature two duetters flowing beautifully together. This one is a theatrical, anthemic, and sonically interesting tune that really captures the essence of 80s party music while still feeling totally modern and new. This one really impressed me this week, and I know for a fact that you’ll love it too when you listen to this song all about getting to know someone new and instantly clicking with them.
This country tune has a fantastic message about what it means to be strengthened by faith in God. “When the storm rolls in the mountains shift / I stand my ground ‘cause I’m God built” is at the center of the message, and I like the way this changes the tone of typical country music, with a bit deeper of a meaning attached. It’s all about finding stability in your awareness of something bigger than yourself, and remembering that no one can make you feel bad about yourself unless you let them. Listen to this one if you need a rallying cry for who you truly are.
Letters to Myself by Soul Filter
With super strong Gin Blossoms vibes, mixed with 2000s-era Aly & AJ, this band has a lot of great heart and writing. This relaxed but impactful tune is written all about the pitfalls of listening to your inner critic instead of realizing your own potential. I really appreciate hearing a great song about something besides romantic squabbles, just to mix things up. I especially loved the buildup to the bridge section. But really, this one might actually be about falling in love with the person you are once you stop caring about what others think of you.
Rounding out this week’s selection is an alt-rock gem with all the sonic dynamics and guitar arpeggiations you’ve been craving. This one is literally so good, you just have to listen to it to believe it. It’s got driving electric guitar rhythms and intriguing rhythms that ebb and flow with each section of the song. I’m also a sucker for a good guitar solo, and this one added so much to the song without being overly flashy. The message is super positive, about growing and learning in life to take responsibility for your mistakes and keep going forward.