Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Gal Musette
This ambient track blends all the best of synth-pop with your most poetic diary entry. I also think it’s clever how she wrote this song about nightmares — a topic that I don’t often hear a song written about. Whether you’ve ever had bad night terrors or just heard about them from other people, this is a powerful electric guitar-laced anthem about supporting those with mental health challenges. I also think her vocal performance was absolutely beautiful, so don’t hesitate to listen to this gorgeous song that is every bit as haunting as it is well-written.
True to its title, this ambient track almost sounds like it’s underwater — I’m not sure if it’s the slight echoes throughout or just the smooth vocals, but there’s something really innovative about the way it’s produced. It’s written about the romantic struggle of being noticed by the one you most want to notice you back. The author note also mentioned something about Princess Diana’s death being referenced as well, which adds a somewhat haunting, ghostly element to the piece. Overall, it’s absolutely beautiful and I highly recommend any hopeless romantic to listen to this one whenever they need to feel seen by someone who understands them
This glittery rock song is straight out of the best part of the 80s — it’s edgy, full of grit, and lots of sparkling synth to keep you coming back for more. It’s got such great radio playability, and definitely sounds like something that would’ve been featured in those cult classic movies that your parents always reference. The closest comparison might be to Huey Lewis and the News, or perhaps Journey. Both of those are some of my favorites from the 80s that I inherited from my dad’s listening taste, so there’s lots to enjoy about this band that feels like a blast from the past. Bonus points for that incredible lead guitar solo that has all the angst you know and love from that era of music.
Don’t Even Miss That Place by Gal Musette
I loved the way this whimsical song sounds like it’s straight out of a princess movie. It’s theatrical, sweet, and so romantic even though it’s more about finding yourself than another person. Her vocals are so beautifully-articulated (not so unlike the lead vocals in Fleetwood Mac), it feels like she’s singing directly to the listener. Whether you think you know yourself pretty well, or are looking for motivation to start getting introspective, this song is just the thing to launch you into your next chapter.
Southern Breeze by Faye and the Mockingbirds
It’s no secret that I’m a fan of this band and the way they fearlessly make music inspired by the 70s relevant again. With all the angst of Fleetwood Mac or Heart but the added sparkle of contemporary talent, this band is doing something really special with their blistering guitar rhythms and anthemic vocal melodies. While it might be easy to classify this as country, I’d say it’s more rock than anything else — but you’ve got to listen to it for yourself. I promise this band will be on your radar for a long time after your first listen.
Now I See (Unplugged) by feelshift
This one reminded me a lot of 30 Seconds to Mars — it’s gritty, real, and full of great vocals. Ideal for fans of Chris Daughtry or Nickelback, there’s a lot to unpack here about the topic of grief and finding strength in your struggles. “The pain became a compass / the rage became a guide / and I found my way to freedom on the nights I didn’t die” are only some of the powerful lyrics that will stay with you long after the song ends. Maybe you’re in a season where you’ve felt a push to reinvent yourself, or you know someone who is. Either way, this song will motivate you to keep going or support those around you who need it most.
This insightful song is actually written about how life is a story — I absolutely love this metaphor, not only because it’s true, but because when I’m not finding your next favorite song, I’m usually working on my next novel. Every line of this song is bright, honest, and full of motivation as you look for the light at the end of the tunnel, or find the bravery you need to get through the next chapter. The guitar is ambient, bright, and pleasant alongside the bright vocals and positive vibes, one line at a time.