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- Review: "Violet Heartbreak" - Kingston Rose
When we start to see the flowers die away and our heart break along with it, we lose the fire that ignites us to see through the pain. Then, when that one person blooms in the empty field and grows into our hearts, we realize heartbreak is not the end to our story. Even as blizzards may hit, the rose we had hoped for still lives on in our lives and is there through all the pain. Kingston Rose ignites the fire within us to still look for that rose in the blizzard who will not leave our side no matter how bad the storm hits. When we have finally found the right person, growing to the stratosphere with that special rose will truly be the height we have been waiting to reach. A deep, slow melody pulls us into the soft harmony of Kingston's gentle tone. The song has a steady, but addicting and peaceful ambience that eases us into the lyrics. He reflects the feeling of pain he had been going through alone. The stems are low, until a rose blooms high above the ground and is there when he needed it the most. He is ready to grow past the pain now that he has found someone to fight through the blizzard alongside him. The chorus of the song reflects the lyrics and tone of his voice as he is ready for his story to grow into great heights. The emotional tone he brings displays the fire that has once again been ignited in his soul as he grows through the heartbreak and pain. Kingston Rose's "Violet Heartbreak" is truly the rose we need to bloom through the blizzard of the heartbreak we are ready to grow past. Kingston Rose is an artist who was born in the UK and raised in New Zealand. In 2020, he pursued his Bachelor's in Commercial music at Massey University, but decided to take another route after two years in Auckland. Here, he started writing and producing music for local artists while he began his own path in the music industry by creating his debut album which was released near the end of 2024. He wanted to make each song distinct and show the variety in his music, while still sharing his story through his heartfelt lyrics. Kingston Rose shares the highs and lows of his life, while creating impactful and beautiful lyrics that is set to reach great heights as he continues to release new music. Written By Nini Alano FOLLOW KINGSTON ROSE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Best Anti-Love Songs for Valentine's Day
For every person feeling full of love on Valentine’s Day, there’s someone feeling equally jaded and bitter over the iconic holiday. Some hate it because it’s a cliché day, while others despise it for personal reasons, like loneliness and heartbreak. Regardless of your feelings about the holiday in question, there’s no denying that there are plenty of iconic songs to capture a cynical outlook on love. So if you’re feeling sour this time of year or are curious to hear some tracks that reflect those vexed, negative feelings, this list is for you. Read on to check out our list of Best Anti-Love Songs for Valentine’s Day! Miley Cyrus - "Flowers" An ode to independence and self-reliance, Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers” is an empowering anthem for those wanting to feel stronger and bolder this Valentine’s Day. The disco-inspired track embraces life after a relationship, exploring the autonomy and freedom found while being single. Cyrus shows us that you don’t need to be dependent on anyone and can do the simple things, like buying flowers, on your own. Chappell Roan - "My Kink Is Karma" For those feeling a little on the toxic side, Chappell Roan’s “My Kink Is Karma” should be your go to song this Valentine’s Day. The synth-pop track relishes in an ex’s bad luck, wishing them worst after a breakup, which is honestly relatable as many of us have an ex we love to hate (IYKYK). Revealing the inspiration behind the song in an interview with Into , Roan states, "I've been through some pretty gnarly breakups. I was just sitting in the session and I was like, 'Ah, it feels so nice that my ex is doing horrible!' Which is insanely toxic. The song is toxic! I'm very aware that it's not healthy. But that's how I was feeling that day." The All-American Rejects - "Gives You Hell" Keeping things toxic and vengeful, “Gives You Hell” by The All-American Rejects is up next on our list. While the pop-punk track isn’t necessarily about love, it’s still highly relatable if you have an ex that you loathe. Tyson Ritter sheds light on the story behind the lyrics, stating the song "is about this asshole, it's a dude who will never know it's about him. It's kind of this tongue-in-cheek way of looking at someone you hate, whether it's your mom, for some reason, or it's your teacher at school, or it's your boss at work. It's just someone who makes you struggle, and it's giving them the finger." Taylor Swift - "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" Notorious for writing about breakups and past relationships, Taylor Swift’s “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” is the perfect anthem for those totally over their exes. The track’s lyrics narrate Swift’s frustration with an ex who is trying to rekindle their relationship, telling a story many of us can relate to. “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” is the lead single from Swift’s fourth studio album, Red , being one of her many hits that incorporate infectious melodies and dazzling synths into her signature pop sound. Kelly Clarkson - "Since U Been Gone" Perfect for someone relieved over the end of their relationship, Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone” is an obvious addition to our list. The nostalgic 2004 track is a blend of pop-rock and power pop, boasting a powerful soundscape that accompanies the bold, empowering lyrics. Highly relatable, “Since U Been Gone” shows us that sometimes a breakup feels like weight being lifted off our shoulders and it’s okay to feel free after cutting a lover out of your life. Tate McRae - "exes" Unapologetic and proud, Tate McRae embraces the unpredictability of her relationships in her bold track, “exes.” The unabashed pop song served as the second single off her sophomore album, THINK LATER , and features shameless lyrics that capture McRae’s flippant attitude towards love. Madison Beer - "Good In Goodbye" Though ending a relationship can be crushing, sometimes saying goodbye to someone is a good thing. Madison Beer reflects on this in her track, “Good In Goodbye,” the lead single off her debut studio album, Life Support . Revealing the narrative behind the song, Beer has stated in interviews that “’Good In Goodbye’ is obviously about an ex and whatnot. But I think it's bigger than that. The title itself to me is important, because closing chapters in life is never easy. You know moving cities, leaving a job, leaving a relationship - things like that are never easy for anybody, but it's important in times of stress and in times of worry that you focus on the good in goodbye, because you know it is important to focus on the positive and the good path that you're going to be led down now that you have closed this other chapter.” Billie Eilish - "Happier Than Ever" While snarky, upbeat songs might feel cathartic during the Valentine’s Day season, sometimes it’s okay to sink into a heart wrenching ballad or two. Billie Eilish delves into the aftermath of being with a toxic lover in “Happier Than Ever,” exploring the different ways they failed her while they were together. The track is a reminder that some relationships need to end for a reason, especially when our happiness is on the line. Do you have any favorite anti-love songs? Did you hear any in this list that you love? Let us know on our socials! Written By Cheyenne Johnson Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Review: Better - Alla Igityan
Alla Igityan's "Better" is a heartfelt exploration of personal growth, healing, and the bittersweet nature of change. The lyrics dive deep into the emotional struggle of trying to move on while confronting unresolved feelings. Igityan sings about wanting to better -- not just for someone else, but for herself with lyrics like, "'Cause falling in love with you, it felt great / but falling out of love feels better." This is something many people can relate to, the pain feeling everlasting, but failing to recognize the growth. The vulnerability in these lyrics resonate with anyone who have felt the weight of past mistakes or the pressure of self-expectations. "Better" provides a sense of solidarity, a reminder that growth isn't linear, but always worth striving for. The reflective tone of the song invites listeners to pause and reflect towards their own journey of healing. "Better" delivers a smooth, introspective blend of pop and indie elements, wrapped in a comforting yet melancholic atmosphere. Her voice, warm and vulnerable, carries an emotional weight. It resonates with the lyrics, which explores themes of self-reflection and growth. The guitar riff that starts the song creates an ethereal backdrop for Igityan's haunting vocals. The song's structure is simple yet effective, with a gradual build-up that mirrors the emotional journey it conveys. There's a wistful sense of longing and hope, creating a bittersweet feeling that stays with you long after the track ends. Igityan's song is a carefully crafted piece that evokes both a sense of quiet melancholy and subtle optimism. Alla Igityan is from Yerevan, Armenia, but lives in Berlin, Germany. She's not only a singer-songwriter, but also a software engineer, managing a balance between both career choices. Igityan's love for music started with learning how to play violin and teaching herself guitar. At a young age, she manifested her success by making her karaoke performances into concerts then eventually uploading covers of her favorite songs on YouTube. She reached new levels of success with her first song. Igityan strongly believes in openly expressing her ideologies and personalities through her music. Listen to Alla's music on your preferred streaming platform. Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW ALLA: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: Infamous - Bella Masone
Bella Masone's "Infamous" explores the familiar tension we all experience -- wanting validation but fearing the cost of it. The track's vulnerability is raw and relatable, compelling listeners to reflect on their own experiences and expectations while navigating the chaos of trying to fit in. Masone sings about "Walk in my shoes / what could have made you choose? / To waste all your breath just to make infamous." The lyrics are applicable to any situation, whether that be a friendship or romantic relationship. It's a common experience that someone is talking about you, but it's grappling with how to acknowledge the situation. You don't want to be misunderstood from the narrative of what's being said. The song talks about how isolating it can feel, which hopefully can send the message to stand up for yourself. "Infamous" is a compelling blend of sultry pop and shadowy, highlighting Masone's raw and intimate vocals. There's an ethereal quality to her voice, yet it's laced with an undeniable strength -- her low register is velvety and evocative. The production pulls listeners into a world of simmering tension and unrelenting introspection. The song uses a haunting beat that leaves space for Masone's voice to command the listener's attention. The pacing is deliberate, like letting a story unfold at its own pace, allowing the mood to gradually intensify. The song wraps you in a blanket of melancholy and leaves you with a sense of emotional disarray. It feels like you've witnessed a quiet storm with the track's dark, nocturnal feel which makes you want to revisit the song over and over again. Bella Masone is from the Delaware area and has taken her love of music and blossomed into a singer-songwriter. At just 17 years old, she attributes her musical influence to Pop, R&B, and Folk artists. Masone's love of music goes beyond creating music, but also dance and piano lessons from childhood. Dance's artistic expression revealed to Masone her love of music. Masone furthered her musical education by participating in ballets, musicals, recitals, and competitions. Her goal with creating music is to help others process emotions and leaving the audience moved. You can listen to her debut EP called, "Call Me Bella!" Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW BELLA: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Website | YouTube
- Review: "Oh!" - Hayes Warner
Dating today can be so superficial. In a world where it seems like men value appearance over personality, a woman might think she has to fit a certain mold to have a successful dating life. Somehow, it’s okay for the typical finance bro or artsy guy to exist, but in order for them to like you, you’d have to mold yourself to fit their aesthetic. If you’re a woman sick of dealing with narcissistic men who only know how to objectify women, “Oh!” by Hayes Warner is the pop anthem for you. It’s rare to find a guy who has genuine intentions. Hayes calls out these guys immediately as soon as the song starts. She sings “First thing I learned when I tried to catch his eye/ It’s all looks, he don’t care about my mind/ Boys and their toys, they don’t treat ‘em very nice/ But two can play at the game of butterflies”. She’s saying that men only treat women like objects and toss them around like rag dolls. She’s acknowledging the double standards that men and women face, and how they are dismissive of her intelligence and personality. She’s aware of the game he’s playing, but what he doesn’t know is that she’s in the lead. Hayes opens up about emotional vulnerability in the pre-chorus, with the lyrics “Give your heart out and they’ll break it (they’ll break your heart)/ It’s much easier to fake it (Oh, it’s an art)”. She’s saying it’s easier to fake it and stay emotionally disconnected because there is a lower risk of getting hurt. By now, she knows how the game works and putting him into overdrive allows her to gain control and power. The chorus reminded me of a modern day “Circus” by Britney Spears. Now, Hayes is putting on a performance and the lyrics “Oh, I’m putin’ on a show for you/ Let’s go, I’ll do it like you want me to/ You can bend me like I’m rubber/ I’m an actress undercover” prove it. “Oh!” is a fun pop song on the surface, but actually touches upon the complex issues girls face with modern day dating. If girls are faking who they are to impress a guy, why aren’t they impressing us? Hayes acknowledges that a relationship is a two-way street, and “Oh!” is the realization that she deserves better, that she deserves more. Produced by Zhone, Jimmy Jansson, and Jackson Hoffman, “Oh!” is a track about putting on a performance for someone else’s benefit and how those relationships are built on the manipulation of those emotions. Hayes has an amazing voice, one made for pop music. The production of this song takes it to a whole new level. The strategic use of reverb, synth, electronic beats, and the instrumentation brings “Oh!” to life. The song is clever, and the music video was even better. You watch Hayes go on a series of dates with different guys and you’ll watch how she changes her appearance or interests to fit their “type”. She’s a performer and she’s making the dating scene her stage, and you can certainly picture that when you’re listening to the song. Hayes Warner is a singer-songwriter from New York. Warner landed a publishing deal with Glassnote Records after graduating from Northwestern University’s musical theater program. Her talent hasn’t gone unnoticed and she has composed work for a variety of television clients such as Netflix, Disney, Nickelodeon, Paramount, and Fox. Hayes is a verified artist on Spotify and has over 127,930 monthly listeners. I’m actually lucky enough to have met Hayes at her release party for “Predator” over the summer. I crashed with my boss who was raving about her on the way to the event. Even though there was no other reason for me to be there, Hayes introduced herself and was genuinely one of the kindest people ever. Since I left that release party, I refreshed Spotify every day until “Predator” was released. I immediately started listening to more of her work, and just by talking to her you can tell how proud and passionate she is. It's so clear to me that she’s a star. Not only was she kind, her manager and the rest of her team were as well, and the support they have for each other is truly unmatched. Hayes Warner is a name that is going to be plastered on billboards one day. You should listen to her now or you’ll regret it! Check out “Oh!” and give it a listen! Written By Alexa LaMalfa FOLLOW HAYES WARNER: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Rebound" - Natalie Reigo
Natalie Reigo has left us starstruck yet again with the release of her empoweringly fierce new single, "Rebound". Having the epiphany that she had served as a rebound to an old boyfriend, Reigo claps back at the notion of being used merely to get over someone else, reminding women of their worth and what it means to be confidently assured in oneself. Reigo's relatable story and emotionally liberating lyrics work together with the catchy melody to get stuck in our heads as we revel with Reigo's uplifting message. Reigo sings, "I won't be your fall back / I'm done playing games," expressing how she refuses to put up with the childishness of her partner in the song and how we should to! This spunky and passionate girl-anthem is slowly climbing the charts, becoming our latest obsession as of late! "Rebound" is a funky, dance-pop bop that makes you want to play it at full volume with all the windows rolled down. Reigo mixes that modern pop and electric sound with her fusion of soulful pop elements to create something fun and engaging to listen to. With a consistently tasteful synth and groovy bass, the song creates a chill, yet dynamic sound that commands your attention in its entirety. Reigo's impressive vocalizations throughout the song are stylistic and characteristic of her distinct sound; her effortless riffs carry throughout the track and pull you into her world and rhythm with each note hit. This track instantly elevates the mood with a resonant call for self-love and boundary-setting. Undeniably catchy, memorably melodic, and wonderfully executed, "Rebound" offers audiences a boost to their playlists and self-esteem. Natalie Reigo, is a Stockholm-studded star with a deep passion for music and drive to succeed in the industry. Only 18 years old, the young singer-songwriter has already started to curate her brand and settle into her uniquely bold sound, tapping into various genres to create a fun, R&B/pop mix that audiences can't get enough of. Collaborating on various Billboard-charters and backing major artist and inspiration, Zara Larsson, Reigo has only just begun to pave her pathway to , not looking back once! Some of Reigo's other popular tracks, like "SOS," "White Lie," and "Memories," have accumulated hundreds of thousands of streams across platforms and showcase her colorful discography. As we hope to see more from Reigo in the future, make sure you check out all of the socials below for updates on her upcoming projects and events! Stay tuned and keep listening in! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW NATALIE: Instagram | Spotify | YouTube
- Review: "the boys who don't know what they want" - Avery Lynch
Avery Lynch’s latest single “the boys who don’t know what they want” delves into the all too familiar aftermath of someone ending a relationship they couldn’t commit to. There was once a time where those sweet nothings felt like they meant something. He held your attention in ways that made you feel desired. You craved being wanted a certain way, but he couldn’t bring themselves to pursue you any further. While looking back, all of his actions seemed so close to yet so far from committing. He just barely etched out enough space for you to be present in his life. He talked to you until morning while making you feel loved just enough. He asked you surface level questions about who you are, only to forget your answers within days. It’s a way of loving that you no longer wish to be part of. You crave boys who want more than the initial talking stage and want to give you all of themselves. “the boys who don’t know what they want” is an adult contemporary piano-centric single that remains central to its foundational slow piano. From its first few notes, it is clear that this single rarely deviates from the piano. Each soft vocal works in tandem with the simple notes of this slow ballad. There are elements sprinkled in throughout other than piano, but they serve as its companions. Atmospheric reverb tunes in and out, most prominently throughout the chorus and pre-choruses. These instances of modulation simply highlight and elongate both the piano and Avery’s sweet vocal performance. This single never truly strays far from its foundational elements and maintains a grounded musical experience. Avery Lynch is an American singer-songwriter currently based in Los Angeles, California. Lynch has been creating her own music since age seven. She started out with piano pieces and gradually moved to creating her own lyrics. She utilizes a similar simple strategy in creating her music today. Her music is created with only a few people and heavily incorporates her own life experiences and emotions. She began her official music career during covid in 2020 and has amassed over 100 millions streams across various platforms. Lynch has embarked on both a regular and mini tour across America. From the beginning of her career, she has successfully utilized social media in her marketing and has gained a substantial fanbase due to this. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “the boys who don’t know what they want” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW AVERY LYNCH: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "I Need A Clue" - SACO
Renowned Dutch DJ, songwriter, and producer SACO has released a new track entitled “I Need a Clue.” Let's get into its details. “I Need A Clue” is a wonderfully written single which utilizes the metaphor of a riddle to describe a confusing relationship. There is a tension and disconnect within this romance, and the lyrics play into these complicated feelings, “Your head on my shoulder, your hand in mine / Yet it’s all far from where it should.” At its core, the song understands the feeling of love is present, but does not know how to move forward under the current circumstances. Comprehensively, this single is about the emotional rollercoaster which accompanies an unclear relationship. Lyrically, “I Need A Clue” does an excellent job of outlining the frustration and exhaustion which will be relatable for many hopeless romantics. Now let’s explore how it sounds. “I Need A Clue” is an uplifting blend of folk and electronic dance music. It’s a track which is full of energy. Pippin’s country-style vocals are rich with twang and warmth, this creates a nice contrast to the somewhat electronic instrumentals. The backing track also includes a vibrant guitar sample which contributes to the upbeat instrumentation and joyful feel to the single. Despite its quite introspective lyrics, “I Need A Clue” simultaneously delivers a stylish pop hit you’ll be dancing to in no time. Now let's learn a little more about who made it. Coen van Hessen, also professionally known as SACO is a well-known Dutch singer, songwriter, and producer within the electronic dance and pop music scene. Born in 1991, SACO started to DJ at just 11 years old, he was captivated even then by musical experimentation. By the time he was 18, he added singing and songwriting to his repertoire by joining a band. He would eventually pause his ambitions to become a musical sensation in order to pursue a career in medicine. Once he had completed medical school, SACO turned back to his passion for creating music. Now, he possesses over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and his signature production is a force to be reckoned with. If you have “I Need A Clue” on repeat right now, be sure to follow SACO on all of the social media below to keep up with any of his new tracks! Written By Casey Hascup FOLLOW SACO: Instagram | Spotify | YouTube
- Review: "you miss it, too" - Audrey Huynh
Audrey Huynh allows us to grasp what it looks like to be confused and to miss an old college relationship. We are given a lot of chances to connect and understand the meaning of the lyrics as the song progresses. One of the lines I connect to the most is, "Some part of me hates that I miss you / Every time I can't sleep at night / Some part of me hates to think of you / Every time I think of other guys / And I know it's bad, I know I shouldn't / But I do." I think these lines show a lot of vulnerability. I'll be the first to say that after a hard breakup, it's easy to feel this way toward the other person. I believe one of the hardest-hitting lines from the song comes toward the end when it says, "Blamed the distance but I know you know that wasn't it / Call it a mistake / I'd call it betrayal / So take the knife out of my back before you leave for her." This speaks volumes on the whole situation, including the potential character of the other person the artist is talking about, and I think that's really beautiful. I believe the tone of this song is introspective and candid. The artist is open and further examines the feelings that still linger for this person. She faces the internal conflict of knowing that they were bound to break up and that it wouldn't last. However, the artist still grapples with memories and lingering emotions of the relationship as a whole. The mood is conveyed to the listener as one of longing and melancholy. We are drawn to the artist's personal journey after the breakup, and the universal experience of missing someone resonates with us. The piano and guitar enhance the depth of the overall mood. The piano provides a gentle foundation for the song, whereas the guitar adds depth and texture. Blending the two elements allows us to feel the emotional weight of the lyrics. These elements tie the song together perfectly. Audrey Huynh is an indie singer-songwriter from California. She is also known for her acting in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "XO, Kitty." She is currently working on her debut EP, "lovesick," which is set to be released in February. Audrey Huynh bases her sound on some of her favorite artists, such as Olivia Rodrigo, Gracie Abrams, and Lizzy McAlpine. However, she brings a refreshing twist to the indie music genre. When asked about the song "you miss it, too," she said, "I tried encapsulating what a college relationship would feel like and sound like with this song, and it ended up turning into one of my favorite songs that I've ever written. It feels really vulnerable and reflective of what it's like to be confused about a relationship and about how you feel towards a person in that context. It's very reflective towards what I was feeling when writing it, but I feel like it's now evolved into something bigger than all those emotions and into something that a lot of people can relate to." Check out Audrey Huynh's new song, and keep an eye out for her EP—you won't be disappointed! Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Audrey Huynh: Instagram | Spotify
- EP Review: "AWAY TODAY" - brooke
21-year-old Brooklyn, New York based jazz drummer turned alt. pop artist, brooke, has recently dropped her debut EP, "AWAY TODAY". TRACKLIST you watch me break All I Ever Wanted desirée red Alarming CLOSE ENOUGH Brooke Cleary, going under the moniker brooke, is originally from Boston, Massachusetts and she started her musical journey at a young age, beginning as a jazz and funk drummer, performing live any chance she had. She started releasing some original music in 2020 and 2021, but that came to a halt when she began studying Music Business in college. Through her 3-year hiatus, she was able to develop as not only an artist, but she was able to gain a sense of identity as well, finding herself in the real world. Through this, she developed a unique sound, and came back stronger than ever, starting with her 2024 single release, "Alarming". Throughout the year, she released 4 more singles, which would lead up to what would become the "AWAY TODAY" EP, which features 2 more never heard before songs. Other than her clear collaborations, brooke writes, arranges, composes and self-produces all her own songs. This EP explores what is described as an unfiltered dive into her world . It covers topics of self-discovery, queer experiences, empowerment, love and heartbreak. you watch me break We start off the EP with "you watch me break", a collaboration track with Finnish producer Zone Diem . Inspired by the likes of Charli xcx , 2hollis , and Crystal Castles , this song has a dark-pop and EDM mixture to it's production style, while having essences of hip-hop thrown into the vocals. There's a haunting, heartbreaking atmosphere on top of a classic club beat, giving you chills and making you want to dance all at the same time. "you watch me break" is about seeing the person you loved hurt you, and they clearly do not care about the pain they are causing you to feel. Having to process something like that in your mind is very difficult. It's never fun having the realization that your partner is toxic and doesn't love you back, but yet refuses to set you free. All I Ever Wanted Next, we have "All I Ever Wanted", a song inspired by post-punk and is reminiscent of the likes of Girl In Red . This track has a heavy electric bassline and drums as the main point of focus in the instrumentation, while brooke sings in a very conversational, nonchalant type of tone. "All I Ever Wanted" is brooke's message to the big boys in this industry, and how she refuses to follow the crowd just at the chance of "making it big". She won't let anybody tell her what to do; she's going to make her music the way she wants to, whether there's someone out there who likes it or not. It's a misconception, especially nowadays, that you need a label to be successful. The truth is, as long as you are happy with what you are doing, that is what real success is. Don't let anyone convince you otherwise! desirée "desirée" is inspired by the queer dating scene in New York City. The song is edgy, chaotic, gritty and fast-paced, inspired by punk and rock instrumentation mixed with more gentle alt. pop / hip hop inspired vocal rhythms and melodies. This song is about unrequited feelings, and still going after someone who is unobtainable even though you know they're not going to ever want you back. When you're young, you make bad decisions, and you let your feelings get in the way of thinking straight - and that's exactly what this song encapsulates. Not only is that expressed through the lyrics, but it's captured through the anxiety and madness of the soundscape as well - the crashing drums, the fast-paced guitar riff, the constant background vocalizations... it's a very well-thought out and put together track. red Next we have "red", which takes more of an experimental approach within it's soundscape and is inspired by more non-conventional artists like Clairo , beabadoobee , and Malcolm Todd . It has an abstract production and groove, but with a sort of soft funk vibe. It has an addictive bassline, a lead electric guitar and heavily filtered vocals to create this dreamy, psychedelic type of experience. "red" is a queer love anthem, about when you meet someone who you just can't get out of your head. You lose track of time when you're with them, and the rest of the world disappears. You could care less about anything else; all you can think about is them. Alarming "Alarming" is the leading, come-back single that started it all. Inspired by early 2000's grunge, "Alarming" features a bad ass bass guitar riff, a raw drum kit, and distorted electric guitar. This is the song you imagine hearing in a secret basement venue that only the rocker kids know about, with a live band and only lasers and stage lights to help you see. "Alarming" is about when you start to have a sense of self-identity, and begin to realize that the people around you might've not had the purest of intentions. brooke sings, "what if all we have in common is all the things you taught me, isn't that alarming?" . Sometimes people manipulate us into being something we're not for their own selfish benefit, but once you're able to break free from that, nothing is better. CLOSE ENOUGH Lastly, we have "CLOSE ENOUGH", another collaboration track with Finnish producer, Zone Diem . Taking inspiration from artists like The Weeknd , Charli xcx, 2hollis , and SOPHIE , "CLOSE ENOUGH" is a mid-tempo but high energy dark electro-pop track with heavy electronic drums, synths, and artistic autotune. It's about when you can tell the person you're falling for could just up and go any second, and it's hard to enjoy what you have with them right now in this moment when that knowledge is lingering in the back of your mind. You're never going to be able to have what you truly wanted with them, you're just getting "close enough". brooke wanted to make a come back, and she didn't hold anything inside. She took the time to discover the sound that uniquely defined her, and came back swinging, stronger than ever before. Her distinctive fusion of rock, punk, dark-pop, and electronic create a musical footprint that is only brooke; it's cohesive through each track on this EP, but still crafted in such a way that every song is it's own entity. There's no doubt that brooke knows who she is and knows what she wants. Her music is the voice for the Gen-Z and queer community, giving them a new sound to connect with. If you enjoyed the "AWAY TODAY" EP, brooke is preparing to release her first full-length album this Summer! So make sure to follow her on her socials below to keep up on her journey. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW BROOKE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.
- Album Review: "I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2)" - Teddy Swims
My first introduction to Teddy Swims was when he made a special appearance on the singing competition show, The Voice , back in late 2023/early 2024. I remember sitting on my couch, a glass of wine in my hand, and wondering... who is this guy? The rabbit hole I fell down soon after was bound to happen. Everything about Swims' stage presence, from his runs, to his sexy and powerful lyrics had me hooked in an instant. So needless to say, I was so excited for his debut album to release. And now here we are... one year later, and reviewing the second part to easily one of my favorite albums of 2024. Tracklist Not Your Man Funeral Your Kind of Crazy Bad Dreams Are You Even Real (feat. Givéon) Black & White (feat. Muni Long) Northern Lights Guilty It Ain't Easy If You Ever Change Your Mind She Got It (feat. Coco Jones & GloRilla) Hammer to the Heart She Loves the Rain Teddy Swims is a Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter who has been honing his craft for the past few years. Born Jaten Collin Dimsdale, his career kicked off in the early 2010s, when he joined a variety of alternative rock bands. In 2019, he opened for fellow artist, Tyler Carter, and started his journey on YouTube. There, he would post covers of songs by artists like Michael Jackson, Chris Stapleton, and even Shania Twain. His first major release was his single "Picky", which was released back in 2020. From then on, Swims would guest star as a musical guest on a variety of talk shows, and even released his first EP. Most recently, Swims achieved a major feat... a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. Not Your Man First up on the list is "Not Your Man", a powerful piece about a relationship where both individuals have their own separate needs, and can't find a way to properly care for them. For example - and I'll use this in a platonic context - I once had this friend who only wanted my love and care to talk badly about others in our friend group. And I wanted her friendship to make me feel wanted. We both had needs that the other couldn't provide, and that's okay. But what Swims is trying to say, as you hear being repeated in the chorus, "This ain't how you trеat somebody you say you love / I gave you еverything, it still ain't enough / You don't have to say it, baby, I understand / That I'm not your man..." As far as a start to the album goes... this is a message I could immediately connect with. Funeral Coming up next is arguably one of my favorite songs on this album. Initially released as its own single, "Funeral" explores the complexities of a relationship that he's so deeply and emotionally invested in, that he struggles to think of the end of the relationship, and that it would lead to his funeral. It's a powerful journey of heartache, acceptance, and self-discovery, and was actually initially released as the first track on Bose x NME's C24 Mixtape! Your Kind of Crazy Next, we're heading into one of the R&B-styled tracks. I kid you not, when I first turned this song on, I grabbed my cat, and started to just dance around with him in the kitchen. It got my hips moving right away! "Your Kind of Crazy" is one of the songs that, I feel, allows listeners to truly embrace and melt to Swims' vocal talents. The song is full of runs that had my brain turning to mush in the best way possible. The song itself is a rollercoaster of emotions centered around a relationship that he may have conflicting feelings toward. I think the lyric that best demonstrates this is "The way your body talkin' to me, girl, I speak it fluent / Know what you gon' put me through, but still, I got to do it / Oh, I / There ain't no changin' my mind / I think I like / Your kind of crazy." Bad Dreams Next is another single off the album that goes into the themes and emotions one experiences at the end of a relationship. "Bad Dreams" is an emotional piece about regret and the desperate longing for closure. As Swims sings, he's essentially begging for the person in question to come back into his life... singing about how he doesn't know who he is or how to act without this person in his life. He also repeats the lyric "No sound when I cry," which I interpret as his struggles to reach anyone with a cry for help... and getting no response back. It's a song about isolation and desperation, and I was instantly hooked when the single first released. Are You Even Real (feat. Givéon) On the other hand, we have a song about an all-encompassing love where your partner is essentially perfection in your eyes. This is also the first collaboration song on the list, featuring fellow artist, Givéon! In "Are You Even Real", Swims sings as though he is in disbelief as to whether his partner truly is real... or if they are just someone he conjured up in his mind. I think Givéon's voice blends beautifully with Swims', and he sings "Is it all pretend, or somethin' I made real? I don't know what to think / And if it's all a dream, I don't wanna wake up", he's praying that this is real life... because if the relationship is all a life, he doesn't want it at all. Black & White (feat. Muni Long) "Black & White" is next on the list, and is another collaboration piece, this time featuring fellow artist Muni Long. I will say, the vibe of this song is much different from the rest of the album. It's much slower, and I'll be totally honest... when I first heard it, my mind immediately went to "Can I Have This Dance" from High School Musical 3 . And that's not a bad thing! Not at all! It just wasn't what I was expecting. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed it right away on my first listen-through. The song is about celebrating the differences one has with the person one loves, and how they don't let these differences change how they feel about each other. It's a song about embracing everything about your partner, and loving one another for who you are on the inside and out, and I think it's a message more people need to hear. Northern Lights "Northern Lights" was probably the first song on this album that brought genuine tears to my eyes. Like "Black & White", it's a slower piece that centers more on the emotions behind the lyrics. It centers around love and loss, and the longing you feel for a person when a relationship comes to an end. Swims seems to go through all of the stages of grief in this piece, whereas he goes from singing about wanting this person back into his life... to accepting that the relationship has ended and appreciating the person for the memories they made together. It's a beautiful way to sing about a relationship that has ended. Rather than sing about revenge or the hatred one may feel toward their ex, Swims shows unfiltered respect and love for this person, even as he learns to let go.. it's incredibly moving. Guilty Next is a song about envy, heartbreak, and as the title suggests... guilt. In "Guilty", Swims sings about the guilt he feels for loving someone who may not feel the same for him. Swims expresses a lot of vulnerability in this track... but also acceptance. Acceptance as he sings about coming to terms with any consequences he may face as a result of expressing his love to this person. Sometimes, moving on can be hard... especially if you are trying to move on from a person you put your whole heart into. That kind of longing and urgency is felt throughout the song's entirety, and made for a much darker, yet equally powerful piece. It Ain't Easy "It Ain't Easy" is a journey about self-discovery and the anxieties one feels when it comes to putting your love into someone. Upon my first listen-through of this song, I couldn't help but catch the similarities it shares with Fleetwood Mac's Rumors . Then I thought for a moment... the album as a whole takes a lot of inspiration from the hit 1977 album. This song in particular, and I have to say, I loved it. It wasn't my favorite song on the tracklist, but it was impactful nonetheless, especially with lyrics like, "So what do I do with all these weird hard feelings? / Thinkin' all night and you know you're the reason / Ain't like me to let somebody be my high and my weakness." If You Ever Change Your Mind We're headed back into heartbreak territory... and I specifically mean my own heart. I sobbed listening to this, and I don't care. It was beautifully written. Like most of the songs on this album, "If You Ever Change Your Mind" was fairly short in length, but was able to convey and express so much in that time. In the song, Swims is singing to his partner, pleading that if they ever have a change of heart about the relationship to just keep it to themself, ideally sparing Swims from the pain and heartbreak, and making it harder for this person to walk away. Toward the end of the song, Swims softly sings "I love you," and it's so gentle and heartbreaking that I had to pause the song for a minute to compose myself. She Got It (feat. Coco Jones & GloRilla) And now, we've made our way to the final collaboration piece on this album... "She Got It"! And we're turning the heat back up a bit. It's a sexy, funky piece with a steady beat. Swims sings, and expresses his attraction and appreciation for this person's natural features. Then, Coco Jones and GloRilla come in and I honest to God think I saw Heaven. This song immediately went into my hype playlist... as a bigger woman, myself, I appreciated having a song featured on this album that I could personally connect with. Loved it. Hammer to the Heart "Hammer to the Heart" is the penultimate song on this album, and was actually first featured on I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1.5) , the mini extension to the debut album. In this song, Swims expresses feeling helpless in a toxic relationship. Breaking free from a relationship like this one can be a true struggle, which you can interpret from the verse, "We both know what you done, what you done / Don't love anyone, anyone / Anyone but yourself, oh / Just when I think I found the strength to go and push you away, away, oh / I pull you in again, oh, I'm such a sucker for the pain, pain, pain". I've had my fair share of toxic friendships, so I can definitely connect on that level. She Loves the Rain And now... we have reached the end. "She Loves the Rain" is the final song on this list, and was, in my opinion, the perfect song to end this album on. After all of the heartbreak and pain Swims expressed in the previous songs, "She Loves the Rain" is about a person who loves their partner, despite the pain that person may be feeling in that moment. It's about unconditional love, and finding something beautiful in what you may think is simply broken. A song about a healthy and loving relationship? It's a theme I rarely hear in music anymore. But it was so beautifully done, and I think was the best way to end off this incredible album. Overall, I loved this album. As much as I loved the first part, I always felt there was something missing. And I had high hopes that the second part would fulfill that feeling for me. And... it absolutely did. I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) is the perfect conclusion to an already incredible debut album. I think it goes without saying that I'll be listening to this non-stop as I wait patiently for Swims' next release. Incredible work... go and stream the album now wherever you get your music! Written By Isabel Mays Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Review: "I Wanna Hate You" - Yorke
Yorke’s latest single “I Wanna Hate You” dives deep into the messy and complicated emotions that come with trying to let go of someone who keeps pulling you back. The lyrics hit hard opening with “That’s cool you said forever then you closed the chapter”, setting the tone for a story about disappointment and unresolved feelings. Lines like “In three months time you’ll hit me up with some excuse to see me soon” perfectly capture that frustrating cycle of reconnecting even when you know better. And let’s be real, who hasn’t found themselves torn between wanting to cut ties but still caring too much? The chorus “I wanna hate you but I don’t sometimes” is painfully relatable for anyone who’s struggled with lasting affection for someone they probably shouldn’t care about anymore. This song doesn’t just tell a story—it puts words to those feelings we’ve all had but couldn’t quite express. Musically, “I Wanna Hate You” combines heartfelt lyrics with an upbeat pop vibe, creating a perfect mix of catchy and emotional. The production is spot-on, blending electronic beats with softer acoustic elements for a rich and layered sound. Yorke’s voice is the star of the show—vulnerable yet strong, pulling you right into her story. The track has a light and rhythmic groove that makes it easy to listen to on repeat even if the emotions it brings up hit you in the feels every time. Whether you’re dancing around the house or lying in bed thinking about that person, the mood of this song is versatile and so easy to connect with. Yorke, an Australian alt-pop artist, is quickly becoming a name to know in the music scene. She’s known for her honest and emotional storytelling and fresh sound that blends dreamy pop vibes with sharp relatable lyrics. Over the past few years, she’s released a string of successful singles and EPs, building a loyal fanbase and earning critical praise for her artistry. Her music often explores themes like love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, which makes her songs super easy to connect with. “I Wanna Hate You” is her latest release, and it feels like just the beginning of another exciting chapter in her career. If you’re into music that makes you feel something, Yorke is definitely an artist to keep on your radar! Written By Caitlin Ridley FOLLOW YORKE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube












