Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
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Bad Memory by Michelle Raybourn
This gorgeous country track is sad yet wistful, and features delectable lyrics built off a play on words surrounding the idea of a bad memory. Basically, the speaker is remembering a previous relationship, saying that she wishes she could forget all about it, while also recognizing there was really nothing bad about the relationship (aside from the fact that it ended). It’s got pretty acoustic articulations and the stylish addition of a pedal steel guitar to really lock in on that down-home country feel without seeming cliché. This song is a masterclass in constructing effective lyricism to bring the listener into particular emotions and experiences.
Spinning by Olivia Elizabeth Basar
I really enjoyed the overall vibe of this alt-pop song written all about anger and the complicated emotions that come with it. Despite its subject matter, it’s not screamo or anything jarring — instead, it’s got a ton of melodic moments in the vocals that depict the layered nuances of the human experience. There’s also some rhythmic guitar floating in the background without clashing. Straight from a diary page, this is the cathartic anthem you’ve been looking for every time you’re upset at someone that you can’t meet in the middle.
This is technically a breakup song, but it hits a lot more notes on the folk-pop genre. It’s got echoing vocal ad-libs and some light electric lead guitar that really creates the space. “You never asked me to come along” is at the center of the message, and this song shares the experience of getting left behind — whether it’s physically or emotionally. If you’ve been missing someone, or in a reminiscent mood, this song is just the thing to remind you that it’s okay to have big feelings that don’t fit in your plans.
Rainbows Everywhere by Ambrosius
This is probably the brightest, happiest track I’ve listened to in a while. As the title suggests, it’s all about finding glimmers of joy in life, no matter where you go. Bright, energetic guitar riffs fill the space between the lyrics, and add a much-needed layer of grit to balance out the brightness in the tune. Subtle jazz and funk-inspired motifs pop up throughout the tune, with an added layer of vocal harmonies to really round out this sonic dance party. The closest band I can think of that sounds similar is probably Smallpools, or maybe The Driver Era. No matter how this song finds you, your life will be better because of it.
Rounding out this week’s music selections is a band that’s clearly got the Midwest-emo down to a science. More upbeat and melodic than other moody-and-broody songs in the genre, this one is a nostalgic gem laced with whatever reminds you of the early 2000s. If you like bands like Blink-182, All Time Low, and As It Is, this band will be just the thing to motivate you to grow out your bangs and leave your hometown in search of adventure. With satisfyingly-raspy vocals and an enthusiastic vibe that will remind you what it’s like to have pop punk songs on repeat while daydreaming about your future before it took shape.