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Brooke Alexx's debut album "Big Mouth" brings an energizing pop sound to confidence, vulnerability, and fun. Enjoy Brooke's powerful vocals and guitar-driven sound as she takes you through alternative perspectives on love and self-reflective honesty. TRACKLIST Super Famous Never Liked Your Name Move To LA (I Don't Wanna) Girlfriend Hot Like You Seriously Younger Guys Break Up On Vacation All My Exes' Moms Stepping Stone First Time Brooke Alexx is a singer and songwriter from New Jersey whose punchy pop style and bold, personal lyricism is sure to lift you up. Her blunt storytelling is a refreshing dive into truths that aren't as represented in music, giving her music a uniquely relatable charm. Shedding genuine experiences of feelings like embarrassment, her music proudly and invigoratingly reflects the thoughts that no one talks about. Brooke represented her state in the American Song Contest in 2022, and has since collaborated with artists like Ben Schuller and Chleo . Her songs have a wide reach, with "All My Exes' Moms" reaching upwards of 27 million streams on Spotify. She lends her songwriting talents to other artists including Theo Kandel , Milly Roze , and Rosemary Joaquin . Brooke is currently touring North America, with shows in major music hubs like Nashville, LA, New York, and Toronto. Take the time to listen to her music to feel the liberating truth in her lyricism and expressive pop style. Super Famous “Super Famous” starts off the album with inspiring self-love and an edgy, bold message. The song oozes confidence through its lyrics and a guitar-heavy rock influence to its sound. With a confrontational message, the lyrics tantalizingly dare the speaker’s ex to try to forget about her. Of course, they can’t. Boldly listing all the ways she has power and influence, this song will have you feeling victorious along with the lyrics. Brooke’s smooth vocal range soars through the highs in the chorus, creating a truly energizing sound. With a catchy chorus and powerful instrumentals, the song takes on a conviction in its tune that invigorates the lyrics. Never Liked Your Name Turning bitter regret into a gutsy release, this freeing and invigorating track will allow you to take out your frustrations to punchy music. Bold, percussion-heavy power is a mood-boosting support to post-breakup emotion. Looking back on her relationship, the speaker regrets not trusting her instincts, pushing forward an empowering message of trusting yourself. Shouting the title like a cheer before diving into cheeky and speedy vocals, the chorus will make you feel good about speaking the brutal truth. The lyrics take on introspection and overthinking, moving through relatable feelings of getting trapped in your head. Emerging from the vulnerability, an uplifting resolution to better trust yourself comes through the words of this "Never Liked Your Name". Move To LA (I Don't Wanna) The third song in the album takes on the tactlessness of society in a punchy and frustration-fueled message of self-expression. Anyone who has been told what to do or who to be can relate to the passionate defense of independence and identity that is powerfully presented through the lyrics. This upbeat track literally claps back with its percussion through the verse, accompanied by palm-muted electric guitar that gives the song a rounded sound. Brooke's high and melodic vocals are delicate through the verse before speak-singing leads to a powerful change in tune. Louder and forceful singing through the chorus channels the fierce response to being constantly criticized. From the way she dresses to where she lives, people think they can tell the speaker what to do with her life. With empowering messages of independence, "Move To LA (I Don't Wanna)" tells haters that their opinions are not welcome. Girlfriend Taking listeners on a journey of jealousy and what could have been, "Girlfriend" tells the story of a chance encounter with a former connection, and the spark is there... until the speaker is introduced to his girlfriend. Listening to this song had me hooked on the drama, and locked in that deliciously spiteful spiral of imagining what their relationship is like. With a beginning like an invigorating alternative pop love song, the rapid percussion and vocals along with glowing electronic instrumentals lull you into a sense of security with the lyrics "this time I'll make a move even if you don't", before pulling the rug with the turnaround in the story. A happy and vibrant pop sound pushes through the chorus as the lyrics move through the clichés and assumptions about the relationship before her, then moves into those greedy and remorseful thoughts that are destined to emerge in that situation. This song takes you through a narrative and thought process that feels like reading a story. The tantalizing lyrics and upbeat tune will make you want to sing along to its catchy and invigorating words of obsession. Hot Like You It's no secret that people perceive different levels of attraction, and so many of us who have insecurities crave a difference in our own appearances. "Hot Like You" puts that feeling into words, wishing for the power that comes from having a certain level of objective beauty. The song speaks to a specific "hot" person, and uses metaphors that explain how the speaker sees themself in respect to that person, saying "I wanna be in your shoes, walk around bulletproof". The lyrics show a deeper craving to feel protected and strong, believing that can come from beauty. A guitar-heavy sound and conversational vocals like an Avril Lavigne song give this track an early 2000's sound. Percussion and Brooke's expressive and bold vocal range inspire an excitement in the sound that will have you therapeutically belting out your insecurities along with the song. Seriously The next track in the album brings a much more somber thought process into the mix, dealing with introspection and worries about living life the wrong way. Melancholy piano and Brooke's solemn vocals narrate an uncomfortable and shocking opening verse, revealing an affair with a married man and the speaker's ultimate decision to come clean about her mistake. Longing for a conscious that weighs less on her mind, the speaker compares her careful experience to people everywhere having fun. The vocals grow higher through the chorus as the lyrics dive into wishes and regrets. Admiring the speaker's little sister, the lyrics say "she's leaving college with stories, I left with my degree", expressing that crushing feeling of not living life to the fullest. Apart from emotional piano, drums make a brief and periodic appearance until they come in full force along with passionate vocals in the bridge, outlining a deep and anxious outpour of regret. This is a song for the overthinkers, and for anyone who feels like they have held themselves back with their mindset. Telling listeners that they are not alone in their thoughts and closed-off experience, this sad song is comforting and makes hyper-conscientious people feel seen. Younger Guys Breaking free from the stigma around women dating men who are younger than them, this song embraces fun and relaxed romance. The opening lyrics, "he's safe, got a 401k" put that feeling of dissatisfaction in my mind. An immediate craving for change and excitement comes from these words because if the first thing you think about someone is their responsibility, it's probably not the right match for you. Percussion and Brooke's narrative vocals drew me straight into the emotion of the song, starting with blatant boredom with the norm. Like an auditory escape, the pre-chorus builds as Brooke's vocals ascend and a machine-like whooshing sound reigns in the change in tone. The chorus lifts you up with upbeat vocals and guitar, along with a proclamation that will inspire you to forget about stigma and get lost in joy. The lyrics say it best when they say: "not my fault that they're funner." Breaking past any feelings of taboo, this song helps you understand that it doesn't matter what people think so long as you are spending your time in a way that makes you happy. Break Up On Vacation This next track shows what happens when a fun journey with a partner turns into a suffocating time of regrets. A lighthearted trip does not go how the speaker planned. Her opinions of her partner have changed, and this song is probably the most healthy way to deal with a situation like this. The happy, clappy, and peppy sound of the guitar and percussion through the verse draw listeners into a vacation feeling, while the vocals take on an expressive storytelling, reaching low notes as they bring on the disillusioning truth. Balancing the reasons for ending it in the chorus, a bright and high sound comes through the vocalizing, singing, and exciting drums. Such a positive tone when talking about a breakup truly represents the confidence the speaker feels in her decision. The inspiring overarching message of this song adds to its depth: no matter the level of inconvenience, trust your instincts. All My Exes' Moms You may laugh, you may cheer, and you will love the female friendships in the song "All My Exes' Moms". A cool rhythm with groovy electronic sounds and percussions bring out the glee of the lyrics. Instead of regrets, the speaker takes something far better from the end of a relationship: a connection with her exes' mothers. Bragging lyrics confidently bask in the love and respect that remains from the mothers, inspiring an uplifting and giddy mood. With high vocals that smoothly showcase Brooke's range, and a memorable message that takes a daringly fun attitude to connection, "All My Exes' Moms" is a song that will stay in your head long after the track ends. Stepping Stone With reminiscent vocals and lyrics that dwell on an ex who just got engaged, "Stepping Stone" is an outpour of emotion and introspection. Not all romances are equal, and this song shows the connection the speaker had with that ex as something deeper than any other she has had. Deep electric guitar accompanies the lyrics, opening the song with a simple and resonant descending and repeating chord progression that gives the track a sound of nostalgia. Building from a breathy, high sound to strong projecting coming from her chest, Brooke's vocals are a passionate and strong reflection through the chorus. Electric guitar and percussion bring depth and emotion into the instrumentals, giving the song an increasing sense of force. Recognizing that she was just a part of her ex's journey, the lyrics end with a hopeful thought that one day he will just be another part of her path as well. First Time The last track in the album stands out with a beautiful and delicate vulnerability as it contemplates the speaker's first love. An acoustic sound twinkles through the vocals and instrumentals in this song, filled with nostalgia and gratitude. Soft guitar strumming and Brooke's breathy vocals struck me with the intimate sound of their tone. This message feels special and sacred, approaching a first love from a gentle place of respect. Emboldened by the feelings of growth and lessons learned from love and love lost, "First Time" takes on the wonder of knowing that love is real. This high and resonant sound reflects the floaty feelings of romance throughout the tune. A beautiful expression of love and learning, this song will make your heart glow. As a debut album, "Big Mouth" has truly solidified Brooke Alexx's musical identity as a unbridled lyricist and empowering pop musician. This album is a freeing musical exposé of taboo or less-than-ideal thoughts. Openly showcasing Brooke's vocal talents, these tracks explore vocal and emotional highs and lows. While every song in this track uses guitar as a strong instrumental focus, it feels like each one is connected to one identity while having its own musical style. These tracks thread confidence and capability through their sound, making them ideal for energizing you with their unique lyrics on a long drive, or hyping you up during a workout. With catchy hooks and chorus that will stick in your mind with their punchy and creative storytelling, these songs will have you singing along halfway through the first listen. Check out the links below to keep up with Brooke's music and get inspired by her sound! Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW BROOKE: Instagram  | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107. *This is not a sponsored post.

Western Australian Folk Duo, Salt Tree has released their 3rd official EP, "Swell", the first of two collections of music in ode to the ocean and surrounds of their Margaret River hometown. TRACKLIST Take My Hand I'll Be Here We Were Young Follow Me in the Ocean Garden Dreaming of a Future Salt Tree is made up of Tom and Nath, best friends from different backgrounds who have created a bond over their love of surfing, nature, and of course, music. Salt Tree debuted in 2020 with their first single, "She's The One". In 2021, their third single "Out Of The Water" gained a lot of traction, currently having over 12 million streams on Spotify alone, which eventually led them to releasing their debut EP of the same name in 2022. Salt Tree has been unstoppable since, now having over 1.2 million monthly listeners on Spotify and just dropping their 3rd EP, "Swell" which we will be discussing today! "Swell" was completely self-written and self-produced by Tom and Nath in their home studio. Their writing not only comes from a very personal place, and covers issues such as mental health, addiction, self-reflection, personal growth, love and loss, but it also acts as a peaceful soundtrack to lovers of the ocean, mountains and forest and to those who find strength in nature. Take My Hand We kick off the EP with "Take My Hand" a feel-good song filled with the joy of being in love and exploring the unknown. There's really nothing like going on adventures and discovering new things with the person you love. It's sometimes even better when you have no idea what you're getting yourself into, and you're just taking things as they come. As long as you're with your person, everything will be okay. "Take My Hand" starts with a gentle, serene acoustic guitar picking pattern, and then it builds into bright folk song with a stomping rhythm and banjo. Tom and Nath have soft, yet cheery vocal tones that compliment each other perfectly. The harmonies are smooth like butter, and have a bit of a Celtic flare reminiscent of Mumford and Sons . I'll Be Here Next, we have "I'll Be Here" which is about being in love with someone who hasn't always had it easy in life, but you want them to know that no matter what, you will always be there for them. Even if they get in a dark place, or they decide to run away, you'll still be waiting for them when they're ready to come back. The verses feel like being at the beach, I immediately thought of Hawaii while listening to the instrumentation. The chorus has a stomp and clap beat with a very classic Americana folk groove with acoustic guitar and banjo. The melody and vocal harmonies and sweet and gentle on the ears. There were some stop and go moments in this song, which I felt really added a lot to the feel of the rhythm and groove. We Were Young "We Were Young" is about longing for the days when things were more simple. When we cared more about exploring outside in the dirt and creating imaginary stories with our friends instead of having our noses shoved in a screen all day; when our dream was to live on a farm somewhere rather than ending up struggling in a corporate world. This song has a beautifully simple soundscape, making it a super catchy track to get into. The melody is such an ear-worm, especially in the chorus; it's made it make you want to sing along. It's almost like a chant. Sometimes simple really is best, because not only does this song have such an important message that many of us can relate to, but it's a great song for crowd work in a live performance and to get stuck in people's heads. Follow Me in the Ocean Next we have "Follow Me in the Ocean". This song touches on the subject of mental health, and becoming aware of how it has effected you. However, you're also aware of the things that make it better. In this instance, we know that Tom and Nath are very connected to the ocean, as well as nature in general. Nath in particular used the ocean as his safe place when he was going through personal struggles. Surfing on the waves, and listening to the sounds of nature not only help him release his emotions, but it inspired him to create the music that we are hearing on this EP. "Follow Me in the Ocean" is such a gentle, emotive piece. There's the signature acoustic guitar playing yet another gorgeous picking pattern, but it's so soft, really putting emphasis on the delicate vocals and lyrics. It's powerful and soul-stirring to feel the raw vulnerability coming from this song. Garden "Garden" starts with dueling acoustic guitars and some light piano; the vibe is so gentle it almost sounds like a lullaby. The mood feels like genuine contentment and peace. The song builds ever so slightly, with signature country folk instrumentation and a modern beat twist. Of course, we can't forget those cathartic vocal harmonies. "Garden" is about finding someone who makes any sort of stress or pain in your life disappear when you're with them. When you're next to them you feel calm and at ease. It's these moments that you want to live in forever; you hope the feeling never fades, but you make the most of every second you have anyway. The lyrics in this song are so beautifully poetic, and they flow effortlessly with the compassionate melody. Dreaming of a Future Lastly, we end the EP on "Dreaming of a Future", a hopeful and optimistic indie folk track influenced by soft rock and a little bit of blues. "Dreaming of a Future" is about coming out of a dark mental rut, and finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel. It's about knowing that there is something good waiting for you out there; you just have to be strong and hold on until you find it. It's no good just sitting and festering in negativity and sadness. We all have to have something to look forward to, or else we end up losing our minds. So go on and be a dreamer, because that's better than nothing! I loved the smooth soundscape of this song, accompanied by the bluesy, western electric guitar riffs. It reminded me of early John Mayer . I think this EP is a very defining project for Salt Tree. Not only is it some of their most vulnerable and personal work, but it also literally sounds like who they are as individuals and friends - nature lovers, surfers, and ocean fanatics. You can hear the personality and the emotion behind the music itself, and within their voices and lyrics when they sing. It's a beautiful work of art that sounds so natural and effortless. I also love how each song flows together, sounding like they belong within one story. They created this signature style that you can hear throughout the EP with the timbre of the guitar and the drums. Nothing feels out of place, but nothing is exactly the same either. It's also unbelievably impressive that Tom and Nath pieced together everything on this project by themselves - from the writing, to the recording, to the production. Everything is so clear and graceful, there's no questioning the remarkable talent these two have and the creative chemistry that they share. If you enjoyed "Swell", be sure to check out the rest of Salt Tree's discography! They are also heading out on tour, so make sure to check for dates near you on their socials below! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole SALT TREE: Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

Love and relationships can be extremely complicated. Finding a balance of spending, between healthy communication, and being the best partner you can be while also taking care of yourself can be extremely complicated. One might think it is easier to be single, but there are many complications to this way of life as well. Having freedom but also underlying loneliness can take a huge toll on one's mental health, and you can find yourself spiraling without that sense of commitment and stability. Kathy Katouzi’s latest single “OHNO!” details this very inner dilemma: considering all of your options and their effects on your life, the good, the bad, and the romantic. Katouzi sings about her point of view on this, and the complexity behind singleness. While the soundscape is very electronic and upbeat, the lyrics tell a deeper story. Katouzi describes that she feels like her life is a maze she is trying to navigate, and she is unsure how to. After a verse of back and forth consideration, the beat drop turns into the chorus, which repeats the same set of lyrics. She sings, “Oh no / Baby I've been alone for too long / I've been chasing stars of my own”, as a techno drum beat pulsates underneath. She goes on to list various aspects of life and her view on relationships, and the positives and negatives to each. She references things such as losing her power and control, but also having the ability to kiss again. Kathy Katouzi moved from Iran to Toronto, and her music reflects the journey she has undergone. Currently teaching herself how to produce music, she creates tracks that discuss self-discovery and becoming who you are, as well as expressing her sexuality. She strives to create a community where she and others can be themselves without any restraint, and can freely express themselves. She has amassed over 5,000 monthly listeners, and only has five singles released. Her earliest, “In My Head”, was released in 2021. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more music from Kathy Katouzi. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW KATHY KATOUZI: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Abby Rose's "Tomorrow" is an emotionally moving track that encapsulates the courage it takes to persevere through life's hardships. Rose sends fans a universal message, urging us to keep our heads up in times when we struggle to see the light our future holds for us. Her heartfelt lyrics remind us that the pain is temporary and the rough days will subside as long as we continue to look forward to "tomorrow". Rose calls attention to the importance of talking about mental health and spreading awareness about issues of suicide and depression, providing a safe, uplifting space for listeners to turn to in their turmoil. Her inspirational delivery of the song is one that we can hold close to our hearts, leaving us with the powerful line "You will never know if you're not here tomorrow" to remember. "Tomorrow" is a comforting masterpiece that approaches the weight of mental health with a beautifully lyrical sensitivity. The serenity of the guitar strings sets the tone, putting the listener in a calm state of mind. As the song progresses, more layers are added to the warm acoustics in the background, creating a perfect balance between the bass and Rose's poeticism. The song's fusion of indie and folk elements gives us a pleasant escape from the overwhelming burdens life imposes on us, assuring us that everything will be alright the longer we listen and allow ourselves to sink into the music. Rose's graceful, airy tone graces our ears when she effortlessly switches into her head voice to serenade the listener. Overall, "Tomorrow" is a wholehearted, kind, and profound demonstration of pure musicianship. Rose's passion can truly be felt in every word she sings, uplifting our spirits and giving us a reason to never give up. From Hopkinton to Nashville, singer-songwriter Abby Rose has consistently swept audiences off their feet with her undeniable talent and bubbly personality. Ever since she was 12, Rose has demonstrated a strong passion for music. Teaching herself to play a variety of instruments and recording from her bedroom, Rose has been dedicated to the craft for years, honing and developing her skills to become the polished artist she is today! Her unique sound comes from the culmination of multiple genres, diversifying her music and writing to reflect her depth as a musician. Alongside "Tomorrow", some of Rose's other popular singles include "Rewind" and "Let Life Be", which both showcase her brilliant lyricism. Following "Tomorrow", fans can't wait to see what more is in store for Rose's musical journey! To make sure you stay up-to-date with new releases, follow the social down below for more content! FOLLOW ABBY: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook   | YouTube

"Drive" is the newest single by rising pop artist, Matteson Gregory, released on October 9, 2024. It will come as the first song off of her upcoming debut EP, so if you enjoy this one, make sure to watch out for that release. The cinematic-sounding track is about the experience of going from friends to lovers. The moment that you first kiss, realizing that your feelings have changed because of this person and thinking about where to go next with them. If you're looking for a new love song to soundtrack your life, "Drive" is the perfect addition to add to your streaming library. "Drive" captures the whimsical, romantic experience of falling for someone that used to be just a friend. This message is complemented with sparkling vocals and a pop-rock influenced instrumentation, driven by the exciting guitar and drum lines. The track begins with an intensity of a car that's engine is about to start up, matching the title. Gregory sings about the exciting and anxiety-inducing experience of turning from friends to lovers with lines like "If I pull you closer / Would you come on over, "You changed me / There's no turning back,” and "Drive me wild / Drive me crazy." Matteson Gregory is an aspring singer-songwriter from the Midwest. She released her first single, "Comfortable," in 2019. Since then, she has put out a total of 11 songs with a few of them gaining over 1,000 streams on Spotify alone. With a strength for penning lyrics reminiscent of artists like Taylor Swift, Gregory is certainly an artist to watch as she continues to build her career in music. If you enjoyed "Drive," make sure to check out the rest of her releases. You can also keep up with all the latest information on Matteson Gregory and her music by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW MATTESON GREGORY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Capturing the bittersweet feelings that come with summer ending and confusing relationships, The Mystics have released their second single, "One Time High." The track is a sneak peek into their upcoming debut EP, being one of six songs to be released in the near future through Northshore Records. "One Time High" was written during a series of collaborative songwriting sessions between members Kallie Bean and Anika Wirth, resulting in the nostalgic track that is perfect for the transition between summer and fall. Similar to the change in seasons, summertime flings come to an end as fall approaches, something The Mystics grapple with in "One Time High" as they navigate complicated relationships. Despite the frustrating feelings that come with unclear intentions, The Mystics keep things light and airy in "One Time High" as the duo create an upbeat blend of indie-pop and folk-rock with a hint of country. The track has a warm, light-hearted soundscape, featuring earthy guitar riffs, energetic drums, and deep bass lines. The Mystics deliver a captivating vocal performance, harmonizing beautifully with each other in a way that's similar to The Chicks . Drawing inspiration from similar artists, The Mystics' "One Time High" is perfect for fans of Maggie Rogers , Joni Mitchell , Sheryl Crow , and Lizzy McAlpine . Hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, The Mystics are an indie folk-rock duo formed by two best friends — Kallie Bean and Anika Wirth. The pair pride themselves on their unique sound and masterful songwriting abilities, combining classic soulful harmonies with raw, introspective lyrics. Having released their debut single in May 2024, The Mystics are just getting started, telling stories of love, loss, and healing in the aftermath of fractured relationships. The pair are dedicated to making a name for themselves in the indie music scene, aiming to captivate audiences with their spellbinding performances and charismatic melodies. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW THE MYSTICS: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

Step into a world of understanding, humanity, and sincerity with “I’m Okay”, the latest single from artist Cam Amen. “I’m Okay” is a masterpiece of emotion-heavy, piano-led music. Amen’s in-depth storytelling and captivating voice takes you on a journey that is filled with honesty, passion, and soul. This track explores darkness and complexities that come with reaching out for help from a loved one while personally struggling, as well as simultaneously taking the other person’s feelings and experiences into account. While Amen is suffering and needs support from the person they love, he embeds lyrics regarding how he wonders how they’re doing now and that he is looking out for them as well. These details are just a small example of why “I’m Okay” is well-rounded and set apart from other love / heartbreak-related songs. Amen allows for exploration of his emotions and, rather than simply just wallowing in sadness, brings reflection and honesty through his lyricism. In addition to intricate storytelling, Amen’s vocal ability calls for audiences to sink into his work. By sink, I mean both literally & metaphorically. Listening to “I’m Okay” somewhat put me into a sort of trance – my ears fixated on Amen’s voice and my heart intaking every bit of lyrics given to me as the song played along. Amen’s style and charm blends together emotional songwriting with elements & tones of jazz, country, etc., that reminded me of soulful, passionate singers like John Legend, Chris Stapleton, and Sam Smith. Amen, like these singers, allows his voice to shine in this track and use his voice almost like an “additional instrument” of sorts. His voice has the power, ability, and range to produce music that carries the song and speaks for the overall song by itself. On top of this, listeners can tell from their first play of “I’m Okay” that Amen puts integrity and dedication into his music that shows that he truly cares for music and being a musician. Cam Amen is a singer-songwriter from Indianapolis, Indiana. Following appearances on American Idol Season 21 from 2023, Amen was given one of the last platinum tickets handed out during that season and received high praise from country artist, and American Idol judge, Luke Bryan. Bryan stated that Amen’s style was “beautifully unique” as well as “the best soul singer we’ve (American Idol) ever had”. Through his current music, Amen explores themes of love, growth, and self-discovery. These goals, along with creating a sound that resonates with listeners, extend an invitation to listeners to dive into introspection and connection. Amen creates this sound that connects with people by blending elements of folk, pop, soul, etc., to produce his unique and beautiful sound. In addition to playing shows, Amen currently resides in Nebraska and is actively working on new music. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW CAM AMEN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

When two people in a relationship are struggling with their mental health, sometimes it's best to take a step back and find happiness for yourself. Ananya's song "Happy" takes on the uncomfortable process of healing and reflection as an individual through its lyrics. Through the song, the speaker is communicating to their ex, expressing their personal growth in a journey towards feeling good. The song begins with the lyrics, "I'm happy you're happy" and this well wish is followed by concern tied to thoughts and feelings of the past. Going on to express how the relationship held them both back, the words "we both made mistakes betting on who's gonna break" express a necessary understanding that when two people believe they are doomed to be sad or upset, there isn't a solid foundation for growth. Through the song, we learn that the ex wants the speaker back, but the resolution to stay apart for the sake of both of their wellbeing stays strong. Inspiring listeners to make healthy choices in life and love even when it's hard, "Happy" carries an important message that so many of us need to hear. Reflective solace and refreshing inspiration bring comfort through the sound of "Happy". Ananya's smooth and expressive vocals open the song along with a soft guitar pattern, pushing forward a gentle and delicate attitude. Instrumentals build with percussion that gains a fast-paced rhythm through the chorus. Ananya sings the chorus with a catchy melody that flips the mood of the song into a lighter and more freeing sound. The second verse has bright electronic instrumentals and light-hearted vocals that emulate the lyrics "I'm happier than I used to be". Layers of background vocals lift the lyrics up towards a growing, glowing feeling. The tune ends in a truly unique way, bringing back that gentle, lovely singing and guitar sound from the beginning and combining it with layered chorus vocals and humming. A feeling of peace and release will wash over you at the end of this song. Encompassing the freedom that you feel when you let go of someone that holds you back, "Happy" will make you feel the beauty in moving on. Ananya is a London-based artist from Zimbabwe who uses her music to encourage mental wellness and feelings of self-worth. Her songs have received acclaim from platforms like GQ South Africa , iHeart Radio , and BBC . On top of her vocal and songwriting talents, Ananya plays multiple instruments that add dimension to her music. She has collaborated with other artists like Rishabh Sharma on the song "Junoon" and Alber-K on "Too Young". Ananya has released several singles and in 2023, she released her debut EP, "i woke up one night". Check out the links below to learn more about her music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW ANANYA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Clover County’s brand new song “Ultraviolet” is hauntingly good. This beautiful track combines 60s vibes with emotional lyricism to paint the picture of a relationship in turmoil over mental health issues. More specifically, “Ultraviolet” speaks upon the difficulty of helping someone who is struggling while you are struggling yourself. Lyrics such as “I’ll drip dry on the clothesline/ try to lure you out into the light” utilize the phrase “leave me out to dry” to cleverly imply their own vulnerability. The protagonist of the song also needs support, but is too busy helping someone else. Later in the track it is revealed why they feel as though it would upset their loved one if they knew of their personal suffering; they don't want to step on any toes. The themes of “Ultraviolet” as melancholy as they are, make for a beautifully emotional and relatable song. As discussed previously, Clover County and "Ultraviolet" have a vintage quality to it, this works to give the track some character and texture. The mood of the instrumentals feels more cheerful than the melancholy undertones of the lyrics. Oh, and the chorus is definitely easy to get stuck in your head. Notably, I find the bridge to be extremely effective in bringing more intensity to “Ultraviolet,” the instruments fade in and out as Clover County delivers some striking vocals. Speaking of vocals, she does an excellent job on this track, showcasing her light and airy voice. Overall, “Ultraviolet” is extremely well produced. At just 13, Clover County wrote her first song while teaching herself guitar. Living in the sunny state of Central Florida, she took inspiration from musical icons such as Dolly Parton , Stevie Nicks , and Carole King . Her vintage sound is a reflection of these commanding influences. The name “Clover County” itself pays tribute to her various homes in Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Birmingham, and Athens. On her own website, she eloquently describes that her name, “represents a state of mind, no matter where you’re planted you have the choice to grow.” With over 32,000 monthly Spotify listeners and 3 released singles, this is only the beginning of Clover County’s impact. If you really enjoyed “Ultraviolet” and can’t wait for her first EP “Porch Lights” to release on November 15th, be sure to follow the social media we have listed below!  Written By Casey Hascup FOLLOW CLOVER COUNRY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

“stranger” by margø is the perfect ending to a flawless era. The focus single of her newly released debut album, who are you when you’re alone?  gives listeners an insight into the dark-pop singer’s mind. Throughout the track, she confesses her experience with feeling like an outsider. She wants to let those around her in, but she is afraid. She is unsure if she can trust them to keep her safe and catch her when she falls. She tells the stranger beside her that she is “careful not to” let them in. However, she immediately contradicts this by pleading: “Stranger, please don’t leave me.” With these two lines, margø reveals her fear of intimacy and  her fear of abandonment and loneliness. With the poignant lyrics, “stranger” illustrates the singer’s complex emotions, providing a cathartic release for the artist.  margø has spent the year releasing captivating singles to build anticipation for her debut album. Each release has showcased the singer’s iconic soundscape and intricate lyrics. By now, it is clear that margø has mastered her style and found her niche with her intense dark-pop productions. “stranger” utilizes a dark synth that, when paired with spatial audio, results in the music feeling like an extension of the listener. Each aspect of the production blends perfectly together, from margø’s smooth vocals to the electronica-pop instrumentation. The intense beat drop at the end of the chorus is to be expected in this genre, and yet, it still catches the listener off-guard and leaves them in awe of the singer’s talent. From the somber lyrics to the fiery soundscape, “stranger” flawlessly encapsulates margø, making it one of my favorite tracks from the artist. margø is a dark-pop singer-songwriter from Edmonton, Canada. She made her debut in 2019 with her single, “In Between”. Since then, the artist has released over a dozen singles and three EPs. On October 11th, 2024, she released her debut album, who are you when you’re alone?  “stranger” is the eighth and final single from the project. She has over 30 million streams globally with over 7 million streams on Spotify alone for her hit single, “Play Pretend”. Furthermore, she has been featured on several of the streaming platform’s prominent playlists, such as Villain Mode, SALT, young & free, misfits 2.0, Ready to Rock, It’s a Bop, Best of Rock 2022, Fresh Finds: Pop, Rock Now, New Music Friday Canada, and many more. margø draws inspiration from iconic rock artists such as Joan Jett and Blondie, while maintaining her individuality with a modern, dark twist. Make sure to follow her on social media to stay up to date with any future announcements and check out her creative posts that encapsulate her unique aesthetic. Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW MARGØ : Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

A narrative expression of regret and reflection turns into a daring message of moving on in Rubin Matters' song "Let Me Out". Laying out the lies and deception of the speaker's ex, this song turns feelings of betrayal into a haunting demand for freedom.  Whether you're reeling from a deceptive breakup, or just in need of a powerful outlet for your anger, this is a song you need to hear. The sweet sound of vengeance had me holding onto every word with the lyrics, "I think you like the drama, well, get ready for the karma on its way". With a titillating threat, the speaker is taking the control back from the person who wronged them through this song. The chorus begs for an escape, repeating the title of the song and making the relationship feel like a constricting, locked cage. The lyrics "you rolled the dice, I paid the price" truly hit where it hurts, drawing on feelings of being played. This is a liberating anthem for anyone who has ever been in a relationship or a situation where you look at the other person and think, 'is this a game to you?' Calling the person out on their fake behavior to the world, the speaker fuels their lyrics with a forceful determination that emboldens healing and self-worth. "Let Me Out" is more than a demand to be free of a toxic relationship. It is a reversal of power that will make you laugh with vindication and feel the strength of the lyrics at your core. Rubin's narrative vocals open the song with a deep sound that has a captivating jazzy darkness. An electronic shuffling sound brings a bold switch in the tone before the singing becomes a bold expression of the lyrics, bringing in a daring energy as it showcases Rubin's impeccable range. A cool simplicity and power emerge from swanky electronic guitar chords and percussion that slowly punctuates the statements in the chorus. Staccato piano chords make a quick appearance at the beginning of the second verse before hazy synth chords take their place. Piano makes an exciting reappearance in the bridge with a zippy interlude. Blending powerfully edgy vocals with both classic and electronic instrumentals, this song will have you nodding along to the lyrics as its sound fills you with excitement. Rubin Matters is a multi-disciplinary Australian artist whose musical theater background allowed him to explore creative performing before his new delve into the world of pop music. Since secondary school, Rubin studied with an arts focus and further pursued dance and acting in his education. He has worked in musicals including The Wizard of Oz and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang , and earned the Playbill Future Prospect Award in 2015. As Rubin creates music, he infuses his songs with strong lyricism and 90's to early 2000's inspirations. Enjoy his strong vocals and exciting sound by checking out the links below to listen to his music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW RUBIN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

“Late nights in the park. Figuring they never close them.” We’re immediately transported to the park and enjoying a night out with a loved one, Julz has managed to gently place us there and enthrall us in the tone of this song. The song begins on a very peaceful dreamy note. Julz’ voice comes in and the tone is set – fantasy feelings. “Just say the words and there we go.” It’s such an airy, carefree feeling when Julz’ voice is paired with the music and lyrics in “tokyo.” Just imagine, if you could “just say the words” and travel wherever you want to go, especially with a loved one, to simply exist. Just close your eyes and drift away to Tokyo. Julz sings of the homey and loving atmosphere that he and his love could have if they were in Tokyo. The listener can assume that Julz and his love have previously been to Tokyo and it was a pleasurable experience and Julz wants to get back to that feeling with this person. As a listener, Julz has me wanting to go to Tokyo if it means experiencing the feeling that Julz both sings about and evokes with this song. ““tokyo.” is Julz's 3rd release of the year after a partial 5-year hiatus. It's an acoustic guitar driven ballad with r&b undertones, which ponders on the thoughts of moving somewhere beautiful such as Tokyo with a loved one.” Julz sings of the scenery he’s already been around seeming slightly “magical” and the idea of running away with your love. “Show me where your heart is. It’s where I wanna be.” If one really thinks about it, “tokyo.” could refer to a state of mind rather than a place. A place of sheer vulnerability with someone you love, where your hearts are surrendered and there’s a calm in the feeling of completely knowing each other, with no pretensions or ill intentions, just blissful joy. “Why make it hard when everything is simple here?” also puts me in the mind of a state of mind or being as opposed to an actual place. Love doesn’t have to be hard- you want to be with a person, so be with them. I do believe that we tend to make many things in life harder than they have to be, but we come by it honest. Humans have been overthinking things since the dawn of time, but that’s a different story. Julz’s voice here is so perfect with this track, I can’t express it enough, it’s like a warm hug to your ears and soul. The world needs “tokyo.”, the world needs Julz West’s music. Julz West is a London-born singer/songwriter. With his beginnings being noted on YouTube, Julz has an ever-growing fan base. With his online following having already garnered hundreds of thousands of followers, it is expected that the numbers will continue to grow. West has a definite connection with Japan, after having sold out shows there in 2017 and 2019 and now creating this masterpiece of a song as an ode to the beautiful land. West is credited with writing and producing for other artists as well as providing background vocals, namely for artists such as Ed Sheeran. West also ventured into the film world, having obtained a part in the Disney live action version of “The Little Mermaid”. West’s musical style is described as contemporary R & B, West is also said to blend his Caribbean heritage into his musical as well. West returns to our ears after a 5 year hiatus from music and has been cooking up some incredible songs. If you want to hear more where “tokyo.” came from, follow Julz at all of his socials below! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW JULZ WEST: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok   | Facebook   | YouTube