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  • Review: "Sentimental" - Thomas Day

    All the warmth and devotion that blossoms from a romantic love comes out in the meaning of Thomas Day’s song “Sentimental”. The speaker describes his love through the song, and the words are the way so many crave to be seen by their partner. The lyrics carry a glowing perspective, treating the love as something the speaker sees as holy, and hopes to be eternal. The words “I can’t love you just a little” begin the chorus with a sense of comprehensive and all-consuming love that cannot be minimized. The song explores the senses–scent, taste, sight, touch–to depict the complete adoration the speaker feels. It’s these small sensory details like “blueberry perfume” that add that personal touch and give us a look at who this partner is. This is the song to listen to on a lazy day with your partner, encouraging listeners to bask in the beauty of their love. “Sentimental” is such a gentle sounding song, giving upbeat acoustic guitar and Thomas’s light, raspy vocals the chance to sink listeners into the bliss of genuine connection. Through the verse and chorus, the vocals hold a softer tone, and gain a soulful boldness at the end of the chorus, expressing an open passion that reflects the gratitude of the lyrics, “what a day to be alive when I’m looking in your eyes.” Strings and percussion join in through the song, layering in a way that conveys a comforting want and intensity, enhancing the emotion in the lyrics. As Thomas vocalizes near the end of the song, listeners can feel like his voice is reaching out, bringing a feeling of connectivity to the sound. Thomas Day is a pop singer and songwriter who captured the attention of listeners all over the world with song covers on TikTok. With a soothingly passionate voice and deeply meaningful lyricism, Thomas’s songs resonate with listeners across the world. He has almost a million monthly listeners on Spotify, and has sold out a headline tour. Thomas is joining Joshua Bassett ’s The Golden Years Tour, and fans are eating up his talent. The artist has an album out called "Love Me For Another Day" which came out in 2023, along with EPs and singles that carry his touching and powerful sound. Listen to his music and keep up to date on his performances by clicking on the links below! Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW THOMAS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "slumber party!" - Annie Lee Rose

    Annie Lee Rose’s latest single “slumber party!” describes the character-defining evolution you go through when you finally accept wanting to be with someone. There’s a new, foreign feeling you have around this person. You seemingly want to be around them, despite how closed off you usually make yourself be. Every step forward towards them, you find yourself wanting to do everything you can with them. Typical, sappy relationship things like meeting their mom introducing him to your dad make you giddy with anticipation. What you imagine most, however, is spending all night with them. You fantasize about opening your eyes one morning and seeing them next to you peacefully asleep. There’s no greater sign of comfort than wearing their clothes and staying up all night to talk about nothing. They have slipped into your mind so profoundly that you can barely bring yourself to think about running away. You’re slowly breaking down your walls and opening your arms for their embrace. All you hope for now is if they will reciprocate your own feelings. Click here to listen to "slumber party!"! “slumber party!” is a folk rock pop anthem that centers on uplifting tones and powerful vocals. We are first introduced to a stringed medley that immediately sets an upbeat tempo. As Rose’s vocal performance begins, the instrumentation picks up more and adds a grounded approach. The first deviation from the previous elements occurs in the second verse as the guitar descends and quickly picks up. Both the vocals and the instrumentation make sudden push and pauses, playing off each other. Each section showcases a unique vocal flair that keeps pulling your attention back in, such as the brief yet effective lower vocals in the pre-chorus. Special elements that remain in upbeat tones and melodies, seemingly reminiscent of the overall narrative of realizing how in love the narrator has become. Annie Lee Rose is an American singer-songwriter currently based in Nashville, Tennessee. She regularly incorporates elements from her life into her music in order to curate a personalized and relatable musical catalog. Being from Kansas City, her midwestern roots are identifiable in her work. She takes inspiration from some of her favorite music artists such as Gracie Abrams and Phoebe Bridgers. She regularly performs gigs throughout Nashville and has made a name for herself in this scene. Her social media presence is notable and she has built a dedicated follower base. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “slumber party!” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW ANNIE LEE ROSE: Instagram | Spotify

  • Review: "St. Louis, Missouri" - Joshua Golden

    “St. Louis, Missouri” by Joshua Golden is a beautifully painful song about heartbreak. Golden wrote this song about his first love/ heartbreak and the deep emotions that came with it. Despite having moved on with life, Golden finds himself reflecting on those intimate, quiet moments that he shared with his ex. The lyrics, “As time goes by, I will always be // On a couch with you // In St. Louis, Missouri,” to me really speaks as a metaphor symbolizing the love that you will always have for your ex – especially your very first one. Golden’s lyrics also showcase the growth and maturity that comes with healing. He talks about seeing his ex move on with someone else and wishing them the best, proving that although heartbreak can hurt, you can walk away from it with fond memories and even greater lessons. Golden’s clear-cut, aching vocals and acoustic melodies really carry this vulnerable, pop track. The guitar strums pick up in intensity throughout certain parts of the song, but for the most part, the emotional and reflective track maintains the same tempo as Golden’s voice masterfully conveys the story of his first heartbreak. While the song incorporates a few synth sounds that can be heard in the background, its soft, acoustic vibes allow the artist’s harmonies to shine. Golden’s vocals and strong storytelling ability, remind me of Harry Styles and Shawn Mendes – two pop artists who are not afraid to pour their hearts out into a song. If “St. Louis, Missouri” is any indication of what’s to come from Golden, it’s clear that this next musical chapter will be his best yet. Joshua Golden is an artist that leads with his heart. The St. Louis native is known for his genre-bending sound, infusing edgy pop melodies with acoustic chords and sultry R&B/ hip-hop beats. Golden began posting videos on Youtube and MySpace in 2008 and appeared on the second season of Radio Disney’s singing contest Next Big Thing in 2009. He released his first single “used to” in 2017, and since then, Golden has racked in over 250 million global streams. He’s also proven himself to be an artist that is always on the grind. The 30-year-old has amassed an impressive list of collaborations with massive artists including Selena Gomez, Jason Derulo, DJ Snake, KYLE, Tiesto, G-Eazy, Jessie J, and more. His discography includes a string of single releases and his 2023 EP Ellie , and now Golden is preparing to share another side of himself with his new upcoming releases. His latest single, “St. Louis, Missouri” is out now on all music streaming platforms. Written By Giselle Morales FOLLOW JOSHUA GOLDEN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Blue Sky & The Painter" - Bastille

    Bastille flawlessly integrates cinematic level instrumentation into their iconic songwriting throughout their entire discography. From songs such as “Pompeii” to the meaning behind the band’s name, Bastille has always found inspiration in history and works of art. Their upcoming album, & (Ampersand) , is centered around stories about different historical figures and pop culture icons. In their latest single, “Blue Sky & The Painter,” the group explores the story of the Norwegian expressionist painter, Edvard Munch, and his experience with depression. He struggled with alcoholism and was admitted to a hospital in 1908 due to his declining mental health. After being released, he began looking into external subject matter as his muse, rather than his inner demons. In the chorus, lead vocalist and the track’s sole songwriter, Dan Smith, illustrates the first glimmer of sunlight after weeks… months… years of glum darkness. The narrator feels hopeful, expressing their relief that they might finally be free of the depression that has been keeping them trapped. While this is all anyone who has battled with mental illness would ever hope for, it is also scary when this is all they have ever known. In the bridge, Smith sings "Would I be who I am without the sadness in me?” This gut-wrenching lyric pierces the heart of the listener, especially those that have been in the shoes of the painter. Once they are healed of their depression, will they still be creative? Or was the dark cloud surrounding them what made them unique? Similarly to any Bastille song, “Blue Sky & The Painter” tells a thought-provoking story using real life scenarios that any listener can relate to, highlighting the band’s remarkable talent. “Blue Sky & The Painter” contains the powerful soundscape that Bastille has become known for. In the chorus, Smith repeats the lines “Is that a blue sky?” and “It’s about damn time.” The repetition emphasizes the desperation behind the lyrics, using not only the words but the manner in which they are recited to enhance the heavy emotions. The song begins with an ethereal intro containing Smith’s stunning vocalizations and soft synth waves. After a couple measures, a deep bass is introduced, reeling the listener into the song’s mesmerizing sound. When the verse begins, an acoustic guitar complements the stunning vocals, propelling the listener into the effervescent soundscape. In the pre-chorus, the production starts to build before breaking into the chorus where the intensity reaches its peak. Bastille has the impeccable ability to tell a full cinematic experience through vivid storytelling and complex instrumentation. Their music has resonated with me since their debut album’s release, making them one of my favorite bands of the modern era. Bastille is a British alt-pop band, formed as a solo project in 2010 by founder and lead vocalist, Dan Smith. The group later expanded to include keyboardist Kyle Simmons, bassist and guitarist Will Farquarson. and drummer Chris "Woody" Wood. They have released four full length studio albums, one live album, and twelve EPs. “Blue Sky & The Painter” is the band’s latest single from their upcoming fifth album, & (Ampersand) , set for release on October 25, 2024. Bastille is known for their pop/indie rock soundscapes that consist of meaningful lyrics and stunning instrumentals. They are currently ranked as the 315th most listened to artist in the world on Spotify, with their most streamed songs being their hit single, “Pompeii” (1.6+ Billion streams), and their infectious Marshmello collaboration, “Happier” (2.2+ billion streams). In just under 15 years, Bastille has made themselves a household name, with everyone knowing and loving at least one song by the band (if not a whole album, like myself). They are heading out on tour to promote their new album, so make sure you check out their website and follow them on all social media for more information on dates and where to purchase tickets! Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW BASTILLE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Naive" - Hello Sister

    Electrifying and hard-hitting, “Naive,” is a punk rock song by the female sibling trifecta, Hello Sister. Highly energized and moving, the track centers on feelings of betrayal and toxic relationships. The lyrics touch on the hurt of trusting someone only to have them break it after multiple chances are given to redeem themselves. “Naive” is about discovering that a friend was never really one, the road to healing from a fallen relationship, and realizing that one bad experience does not define future connections. The song's title matches the anger and naivety of the person who holds on to hope that the other person is better than they are. The shame that follows from blinded faith as the band notes, “You took my dignity and wore it like a medal.” Upbeat and measured, “Naive” sums up the leftover emotions of anger and distrust that listeners from a young age can relate to. Culminating in powerful electric rock waves, “Naive” is riotous and full of teenage exasperation. The band is reminiscent of 2000’s female rock singers like Avril Lavigne and Hayley Williams from Paramore with a more contemporary feel around the edges. Vocally, the track is flawless, with the echoing voices of the singers blending harmoniously in the verses, even amidst the powerful drum chorus. The chorus is exhilarating and thunderous, as the distressed emotions break through the heavy instruments and the hurt seeps through each lyric. Though the track instrumentally provides an outlet for anger and outrage left by the feelings of betrayal, vocally the song displays a raw voice, heavy with hurt and laced with poignancy. The liberating anthem takes on a hopeful ending as the song ends, “I'm really good at putting the pieces together again.” The song lastly promises that despite being betrayed, the other side is truly “the fool” for taking advantage of their kindness. Hello Sister is a punk-rock female group consisting of three siblings, Grace, (lead vocals, keyboards and bass), Gabriella (background vocals and guitar), and Scarlett (background vocals and drums). The band, who grew up in Orlando, Florida, released their first EP, “Three by Three,” in 2021. Their song “Middle Schooler” was featured on America’s Got Talent that same year. In 2023 the group performed in New York City at the popular iHeartRadio Jingle Ball, further catapulting them into musical stardom with their win as Open For An Icon. The band has also found their cover of Queen’s “Don't Stop Me Now” to be chosen by Dove Haircare and their global campaign “Beauty of Damage.” From Walt Disney World to the House of Blues Orlando and SunFest, the girl group has performed across multiple stages and at an array of events. With a growing list of successes under their belt, Hello Sister is certain to continue gaining momentum with their raw lyrics and lively spirit on stage. Written By Mia Chavez FOLLOW HELLO SISTER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

  • EP Review: "WHIT" - WHIT

    Pop/Rock infused Country artist WHIT has released her debut self-titled EP. Featuring recent singles like "Black And Blue" and "Ready Or Not", WHIT has taken her already loveable sound to the next level. TRACKLIST Black And Blue Go To Hell Grass Is Greener Ready Or Not WHIT, formerly known as Whitney Miller, is a multi-talented champion born and raised in South Texas with many titles on under her belt. In 2012 she was crowned Miss Texas and then Miss United States; she was also a professional athlete, MMA Fighter, kickboxing commentator, and a well-known podcaster on the show " True Sex & Wild Love " which she co-hosted with Dr. Wednesday Martin . Now based in Nashville, Tennessee, WHIT has decided to focus on a music career. WHIT has always had a deep love for music, especially country, and has been writing and singing since she was a little girl. She was inspired by artists like Hank Williams , Patsy Cline , Bonnie Raitt and Johnny Cash . She debuted with a single in 2022 titled "Diamond Country" which was premiered on CMT.com . Her sound sticks to her country roots, but with lots of rock'n'roll edge just a little bit of modern pop flare. She's been compared to a mixture of artists like Gretchen Wilson , Shania Twain , Jelly Roll , HARDY and early 2000's Kelly Clarkson and P!NK . WHIT has spent the last 2 years releasing new singles and performing live shows, but now the time has come for her first ever EP. Let's dive into "WHIT". Black And Blue Track one is leading single, "Black and Blue" which was the first taste of WHIT's fresh, new sound for 2024 and what was to come for her debut EP. Accompanied by a music video, "Black and Blue" is an anthem for all the strong women out there who don't let others step all over them. More specifically, "Black and Blue" is about having a partner who is unfaithful, but not letting their screw ups break your heart. Instead, you take back your power and leave them to their own devices because you're bigger and better than they ever could be. They may think you'll let them get away with whatever, but the joke is on them. This song has a bold and empowering soundscape that takes a pop/rock approach with WHIT's signature country twang. Her smooth and effortless vocals fit right in to the high-energy vibe. This would be a great song to experience live at a show or festival, to jam out to in your car with the windows down in the Summertime, or to jump around to in your room to release your emotions. Go To Hell Next, we have "Go To Hell" which is a very dark-toned, but fun and heavy rock song. With lots of crashing drums and distorted guitars, this song goes hard. "Go To Hell" is about having people who don't like you, and being okay with it. The gist is, "Oh, you want me to go to hell? Well that's fine by me." Nothing infuriates a hater more than having that unbothered energy; and this is the perfect song for that. WHIT shows off vocally in this song; using a little extra southern twang, blues notes in the melody and having a growling/raspy timbre to really match that hardcore rock instrumentation that is backing her up. If you're not headbanging to this song and making a little bit of stank face, then you're not listening to it right. Grass Is Greener "Grass Is Greener" breaks things down a little bit in tempo, but still remains high energy and incredibly catchy with it's signature vocal and guitar refrain that repeats through out and makes you want to sing along. This song is about having everything somebody could want in a picture perfect partner, but then you end up meeting someone who makes you question your relationship. Sure, they might be what society could consider a good partner, but if you're not happy, are they really that good for YOU? You find yourself lying in bed at night thinking about what could be with this other person you met. WHIT uses the old saying "the grass is always greener on the other side" to play with the idea that maybe life could be happier with someone else. Ready Or Not The EP closes out with WHIT's single, "Ready Or Not". It's an empowering anthem about not letting anything or anyone stop you from being who you are and doing what you want. You better watch out, because you don't want to be in WHIT's path when she's on a roll. It's not only a song for WHIT to show her own strength and confidence, but it's a song for everyone else out there who needs a boost and reminder that they are a bad ass. This song has a very strong Southern Rock soundscape with a stomping beat. WHIT sings with grit and roar in her throat to really emphasis that power and bravery, like a lioness. It really adds an essence to the meaning behind this song. WHIT's debut EP is bop after bop after bop. There's not a single track on here not worth giving your full attention to. Each song has it's own story matched with a perfectly crafted melody that'll be stuck in your head for days on end. Not to mention WHIT's impeccable vocal control and ability to switch up her tone from smooth to rough depending on what she's singing about. She has a gorgeous voice and an ability to portray emotion so well. She doesn't let the high energy of her instrumentals outshine her for one second. WHIT has a star quality to her, but in the way that people can feel comfortable relating to her and her music - which is the best quality to have as an artist. WHIT has done many things as a career woman and has had a ton of success in everything she touches, but I think she has really found her place within music. If you loved these songs on her EP, make sure to check out the rest of her previous releases! WHIT is only just getting started, so follow her below to find out what's to come as well. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW WHIT: Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube | Website *Sponsored Post - Discovered on MusoSoup. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "White Widow" - Frances Fiend

    In "White Widow," by Frances Fiend, the singer is spiraling after a failing relationship. Part of Frances's struggle is emotionally moving past it, which she clarifies by saying, "I wish we never met." However, Frances has found temporary relief in Marijuana. In her mental state, Bina has smoked through most of her Black Widow and Red Widow strains. But possessing a batch of her new favorite, White Widow, Frances allows it to continue blinding her from the harsh reality of her relationship. Unfortunately, in "White Widow," Bina resorts to a coping mechanism that she's used to and wants the freedom to do it peacefully, which may reflect a deeper issue. "White Widow" by Frances Fiend is short and to the point, spanning only two minutes and thirty-one seconds in length. From the start, Frances sets the tone for the record with aggressive staccato hits from the percussion and guitar parts as she sings through the song's chorus. Once reaching the verse, the instrumentation increases in movement, defining the track's pace. And complementing the fast tempo is not only changes in the arrangement but the expressiveness in Frances' vocal performance. In "White Widow," the use of vocals through screams, stacking, adlibs, and effects leave no room for a dull moment. Not to mention Frances' Persian influence, which allows her melodic choices to shine within the rock genre. Frances Fiend is an Iranian-American singer-songwriter from Southern California. Frances' musical interests started early with piano and songwriting until later introduced to rock music. Inspired by bands like The Clash and Nirvana, Frances began playing guitar and bass, which would encourage her to self-produce demos. With a background in psychology, Frances' discography reflects on issues within the mental health community. And with her debut album expected in 2023, Frances intends to continue advocating through her musical platform. After all, with her previous appearances at Whiskey A-Go-Go and Viper Room, and opening for acts like Chris de Burgh, there's no doubt Bina will be growing her audience within the new year. Written By Jeffrey Ade FOLLOW FRANCES:

  • Interview: "White Widow" - Frances Fiend

    Photo Credits: Luis Garcia What does your song “White Widow” mean to you? What are you trying to tell your listeners? * Frances: “White Widow” started as a subpar diss track to my college roommates after a trivial disagreement, but as I played with it more and more, the song began digging deeper into what I was personally dealing with at the time. If you really read into the lyrics, they reveal a lot more about my private life than I’d like to admit! Today, the song is a personal reminder of the dangers of self-medicating; it’s really a cautionary tale for myself. In your song “White Widow,” listeners can hear you mention three colors: black, red, and white. What are these colors supposed to represent? Frances: I love this question! The “black widow” represents a very intrusive, dreadful memory, and the “red widow” is the enduring, trauma-related guilt associated with said memory; their recurring emergence impels the speaker to, almost instinctively, use the last of her White Widow stash to numb herself from the ever-present black and red widows (trauma and regret) that she can’t bear to live with. How does being Iranian and American affect the way you create your music? Were you raised around both American and Iranian music or what types of genres did your family introduce you to? Frances: Absolutely! Growing up with both Persian and American music has empowered me to take more chances and tap into multiple genres within a single song. A lot of the songs that I’m writing at the moment have a Middle Eastern flare to them, and I look forward to exploring more of that Persian influence in the studio. Now that I have my first album recorded, which feels very authentic to me and my pure love of rock, I feel more open to experimenting with different sounds from my upbringing and fusing that with rock. In the music industry, if you could work with anyone, who would it be and why? Frances: Oh, this is a tough one! I can’t pick just one! It would either be Iggy Pop or Dave Grohl. I absolutely admire Iggy Pop—he’s the godfather of punk, and I think he’s been a lot more influential over so many different rock and pop artists through the decades than he’s given credit for. I think he’s an incredibly talented songwriter, yet so underrated, and I’d give anything to write with him. I’d also love to work with Dave Grohl because he’s such a strong advocate for young artists and keeping rock a relevant genre. Nirvana has also been one of my favorite bands since I was 12 years old, so working with him has been on my mind forever! Photo Credits: Luis Garica As someone who studied psychology and has a passion for bringing awareness to mental health issues, how are you working to achieve those goals? Are there any big projects in the future you hope to be working on? Frances: Most of my songs are about my own experiences with mental health, but there are times when I try to write from a hypothetical perspective outside of myself. I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t know everything, and I will only ever really know mental health as far as my own experience goes, but I’ll always try to educate myself on other mental health issues. Studying psychology has helped me better articulate my interest in mental health and learn about others’ experiences with it. The most I can do is try to understand and perhaps write a song about the things I can comprehend, in hopes that it will resonate with someone. It’s exciting to see mental health finally being included in more public conversations, but I believe there still needs to be more attention given to those who have been historically underrepresented. You are currently recording your debut album with Grammy Award-winning producer Josh “igloo” Monroy, how exciting! Do you want to tell listeners what they can expect to hear from this new album? Frances: People can expect to rock the f*** out! Interviewed By Sophia E. Henry FOLLOW LAYLA:

  • Album Review: "Imaginal Disk" - Magdalena Bay

    Photo: Magdalena Bay via Bandcamp On August 23, 2024, American alt-pop band Magdalena Bay released their sophomore album, "Imaginal Disk." Described by the duo as a concept album, this collection invites the listener into an alternate universe to follow the story of True. Aliens implant 'imaginal disks' into primates to create consciousness. Unable to properly process the upgrade, True embarks on an intense and personal journey, one that enables her to explore and begin to appreciate what it truly means to be human. TRACKLIST She Looked Like Me! Killing Time True Blue Interlude Image Death & Romance Fear, Sex Vampire in the Corner Watching T.V. Tunnel Vision Love is Everywhere Feeling DiskInserted? That's My Floor Cry for Me Angel on a Sattelite The Ballad of Matt & Mica The duo known as Magdalena Bay consists of Matthew Lewin and Mica Tenenbaum. Born in Argentina, Tenenbaum's family immigrated to Miami when she was around a year old, while Lewin was born in Miami. The two met while in high school, participating together in a program offered by Live! Modern School of Music , joining a classic rock cover band. Based in Los Angeles, California, the pair produce and write together, creating three EPs, three mixtapes, and two studio albums. The group credits Chairlift , Charli XCX , and Grimes as featuring among the most significant of their artistic and musical influences. She Looked Like Me! The album's opening track begins with sounds that feel reminiscent of a scratched and skipping CD, eventually smoothing out to sharp, clear notes plucked directly from a childhood music box. Percussion joins in, a staccato rhythm that perfectly complements the song's vibe. The music continues to progress and evolve, creating a rich sonic experience for the listener to immerse themselves. The tempo and sounds abruptly shift, becoming distorted and mildly unsettling, almost eerie. 'We stood mirrored 'til I leaned in/And then, you know what she did?/She shot at me like an earthbound bullet/And then she wrapped her hands around my neck.' Killing Time Synths create a magical, dreamy sound punctuated by an intense bassline. The production and sound layering both in this song, as well as throughout the album, are beautifully done. In the beginning, Mica's voice is quite striking, sounding innocent while still delivering a commanding performance. The music provides subtle hints at discord simmering just beneath the surface, becoming fully realized when Tenenbaum's vocal delivery dramatically shifts. Ominously chanted lyrics give the feel of one gripped by an indelible paranoia, 'I'm looking in the mirror and swallowing the key/It only takes a minute to forget a week/Count up all the years that we spend asleep/If time is meant for living, why's it killing me?' True Blue Interlude Dreamy piano notes evoke the cleansing sensation of water, with chimes sprinkled in for shimmering accents. Paired with the magic of Mica's spoken words, this entry is reminiscent of high-caliber meditation or manifestation tracks. This soothing sonic offering is sure to help the listener restore their sense of calmness and serenity. The lyrics echo this sentiment, 'Say hello, it's you, the purest you/The next stage, the next phase is here (True blue)/Instinctive, impatient, impossible (True blue)/In memory, mirror, and membrane (True blue)/It's here, say hello, it's you (True blue).' Image The album's second song sounds like it was plucked directly from a video game. This funky and imaginative pop song encompasses the warm, vibrant days of summer, with a heavy synth beat weaving a hypnotic pattern. The result is an earworm that unapologetically ensnares the listener. The throbbing, distorted bassline toward the end leads to ominously sinister gaming sound effects, culminating in a jarring and discordant crashing of piano keys. Mica's flawless vocal delivery continues with the lyrics, 'I'm the best you've got/True or not/I've got common sense/I've got all the common sense/Time to let me in/Let's begin (let's begin, let's begin)/There's no heaviness/Just over the precipice.' Death & Romance This was the album's first release and the collection's longest track, clocking in at nearly eight minutes. The song quickly envelops the listener with an infectious piano melody, sparkling synth flourishes, and a peppy percussion beat. With so many complicated layers of sound to lose oneself within, the song seemingly passes in the blink of an eye. Nestled within the effervescent music, somber lyrics spin a tale that alternates between hopefully upbeat and tinged with sorrow and regret. 'Monday, through an echo/Feels like heaven/Feels like heartache/You run, streetlights like halos/As the rain falls/Are we too far?' Fear, Sex This feels almost airy compared to the previous tracks; it is stripped-down and musically less densely layered than its counterparts. However, this by no means diminishes the duo's effort, creative ingenuity, or attention to detail in creating the song. Lyrics and vocals deliver the palpable emotional punch of yearning for a lost love while navigating its accompanying mental battlefields, 'Please don't die alone, overhead/I'll surrender to the voices in the end/Shoulda known those dirty bastards would put wires in your head/Are you there? All alone, lost in forever.' Vampire in the Corner This is another tune that, sonically, feels relatively pared back. Soft vocalizations culminate in the slightest of giggles, and Tenenbaum's delivery feels coy and playful at first. However, as the song progresses, these emotions deepen into reflection, self-pity, and a tinge of desperation. The higher registers as the song reaches its conclusion provide an almost church choir, hymnal feel. 'Sorry, like a flower that never gets any sun/I hang my head down, let the bees do their buzz/Baby, you're my rainy day that's starting to flood/My God, it's only 'cause I love you too much.' Watching T.V. This song's smooth, steady flow oozes a mellow vibe, setting the tone as the lyrics implore the listener to tune out unnecessary, outside noise pollution to turn within for self-reflection. A heartfelt invitation is extended to meet our proverbial monsters within, to accept and make peace with these sometimes unpleasant aspects of ourselves. There is a moment that conjures memories of Lady Macbeth, 'If you wanna be clean/You gotta scrub until the blood comes out,' but then takes an abruptly dark turn, 'Get the spots in between/Slip your skin right off and hang it out.' Tunnel Vision The record's third single is a psychedelic tune that slowly devolves into the fallout of carefully orchestrated chaos. This song encapsulates the nuclear-level emotional fallout accompanying extremely toxic Joker/Harley-style relationships. It takes the listener along for those intoxicatingly addictive emotional highs, then plunges them into the anxiety-riddled moments of a prolonged panic attack. What was once comforting and nurturing has warped into something painful and destructive. 'I burn/I burn my candle out/I burn my candle out/So nobody else can see/I've learned/I've learned what made me start/What turned me on/Now I'm scared of all my parts/'Cause suddenly I can see everything wrong.' Love is Everywhere This dreamy, upbeat track would be perfect as the theme song for a TV romcom-drama series. It incorporates rumbling baritones, which contrast pleasantly against the accompanying joyful and blissful vocals. This theme is mirrored in the music, which features a funky bassline paired beautifully with harps and an orchestral arrangement. This feels like True has reached the point in her journey where she's becoming self-aware and learning to love herself despite her imperfections. 'Love, love is everywhere/If, if you want it there/Look inside/Through holes in the sky/The fallen days bring tears to my eyes.' Feeling DiskInserted? This interlude, concise and succinct at fifty-eight seconds long, invites the listener to reflect with gratitude on the wisdom, awareness, and unexpected blessings accompanying a self-discovery journey. Gorgeous harp notes sparkle amongst the breathy lyrics, 'Look inside/Through the sky/All around us/Angel on a satellite/Glad you found us.' That's My Floor The album's final single features catchy guitar riffs and bubbly synth, resulting in an infectious and groovy offering. It's almost guaranteed that the listener will find themselves vibing along with the beat at some point. This song feels like the acceptance of surrendering to the moment and opening oneself up to new experiences, even though it feels awkward and counterintuitive. 'Took the elevator in a fire/Pressing the alarm just took me higher/Never really noticed you're a sentimental guy/That's my floor/I'm coming up to the party and I want more/So open up for me.' Cry for Me Retro and disco-inspired, this track features glittering keys, swelling strings, and dreamy vocals. While largely optimistic and upbeat, the song incorporates darker elements, such as dramatic music and a sinister, menacing laugh. These aspects emphasize the moments of self-doubt and self-criticism that can unexpectedly bubble up when embarking on a journey of healing and discovery. The vocals here are a combination of both wistful and accepting, 'Thinking of you from a road that has no bends/Bound to get lost, but the dogs don't stand a chance/I'll take all your thanks and all your sympathies/Cry for me/Cry for me.' Angel on a Satellite This deeply sentimental and touching song was designed by Mica as a tribute to Matt and the band's loyal fans. Elements such as bongo drums, prominent piano, building synth, and sweeping strings pair beautifully with the song's tender vocals. The final result is an authentic and emotionally vulnerable highlight that sets the tone for the album's final track. Beautifully uplifting, the track celebrates acceptance as well as healthier coping mechanisms. 'A thousand eyes/Turn to stone/In monocrhome/Surprise, surprise/They turn to smile/At the same time/That's why I don't look up/That's why I'm always dancing.' The Ballad of Matt & Mica Reflective and personal, this track celebrates the transformation, growth, and inner peace earned by emerging triumphant from the skirmishes littering the battlegrounds of life and mental health. Jaunty synth flawlessly accompanies Mica's joyous vocals, fusing together to create a flawless and unapologetically feel-good song. The album's final sonic journal entry mirrors the obstacles that the duo has encountered and overcome along their journey and rise to fame. 'Long way into nowhere/Two years from home/Most days are for nothing/I keep kicking the stone/Fly high overzealous/Past paragon/That's why I'm the greatest/I keep shining the stone.' "Imaginal Disk" is an ambitious and impressively creative storytelling journey and concept album. Complex and introspective, repeated listens reveal additional nuances and layers, sonically as well as thematically. The dedication to production, artistry, and ingenuity is readily evident, showcasing the duo's continuous need to challenge themselves and push boundaries to grow artistically. The result weaves together a compelling and emotional tale that Magdalena Bay's audience will continue enoying for years. Written By Vanessa Siebrass Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Copyright not intended. Fair Use Act, Section 107.

  • Review: "nashville" - The Kind

    Released just last week, The Kind’s latest single “nashville” is a hit you don't want to miss. Perfectly produced, the track follows the aftermath of a relationship so hurtful, the narrator had to move away to Nashville. It deals with the all too common feeling of wishing the other person the best, but not knowing why the best could not be with them. The track is a perfect mix of indie-pop that The Kind tends to blend together, with an underlying drum beat and intense guitar chords. Jane Barkley Young’s emotive voice puts the listener right in her heartbreak, and her tone is clear cut and almost pleading. The lyrics cover all of the thoughts she is too scared to actually verbalize to her ex, but that she needs to get off her chest all the same. This song starts slow with just an acoustic guitar line, and the narrator sings about her ex finding a new girl who ‘looks amazing’ (ouch). As the first verse ends and spirals into the chorus, the drums come in and the soundscape picks up speed. The last two lines of the chorus hit hard, as she sings “I want you to be happy / I just wish it was with me”, with a sucker-punch of a tone, simultaneously kicking herself for not being enough and her ex for needing more. The song slows down entirely, going back to just the acoustic guitar line for the bridge. Young sings, “Maybe I just can’t accept that this is really over / I can’t imagine a world where we’re just friends / So if the door is closing can you keep it open / Please don’t leave me out here again.” In her last line, her voice explodes into emotion and begging as a last resort. The Kind is an indie-pop duo, made up of Adam Rowley and Jane Barkley Young. The two met in London, and immediately clicked, now stating that they are more like family. Because of their similarities in music influences and personal taste, they quickly found their personal style, and blended perfectly together. Their music has been racking up accolades across the UK on BBC radio stations, as well as being placed on multiple Spotify editorial playlists. “Nashville” is only their third single, but they have accumulated almost 4,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more music from the Kind. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW THE KIND: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Qu'est-ce que C'est?" - Your Friend Claudine

    Your Friend, Claudine’s song “Qu’est-ce que C’est” is a tune that searches for clarity. It starts listeners off by taking us on a gloomy drive down the rainy streets of Seattle. The weather bleeds into the tired and hazy way the speaker is feeling. The contemplative lyrics “maybe one last drive and I’ll pack my bags for Chicago” are a really cool way to show a need for change, phrased so casually it embraces the confusion exuded by the speaker in the song. A switch comes through the chorus as the narrator directs their confusion towards an individual, begging them to “say what you mean”. The title of the song, the words ‘what is it’ in French, are repeated as a way to reach out. It feels like the speaker and person they are speaking to are out of sync, with one another and lyrics are a pursuit to keep up. Slow and resonant electric guitar picking sounds through the entire song, as Your Friend, Claudine's smooth, melodic, and soft vocals work through the lyrics. " Qu’est-ce que C’est" has a relaxed, hazy vocal and percussion style that is perfect for Frank Ocean fans looking for a more gloomy "Lost". The pre-chorus features the vocals climbing to cerebral high notes, then reaching a smooth low sound in the chorus. Drums come in at the second verse along with a vibrating mellow electronic instrumental, bringing an ambient roundness to the sound. Electric alto vocals repeat near the end of the song, blending with Claudine's gentle, mellow voice. Your Friend, Claudine is a Seattle-based musician. They are a singer, songwriter, and electric guitarist. Pairing a peaceful and genuine vibe with themes of romance and self-reflection, Your Friend Claudine's songs are perfect for listeners who want chill music with deep meanings. They recently performed at the Seattle music festival Capitol Hill Block Party . Keep an eye out for a new release in October, and while you're at it, enjoy the simple and powerful music video for "Qu'est ce Que C'est" on Youtube. It uses a bike ride on the shore line to represent the feeling of the song. Click on the links below to listen to their music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW YOUR FRIEND CLAUDINE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

  • Review: "What Am I Looking For?" - Andie Case

    Get in touch with your emotions and find yourself within “What Am I Looking For?” by artist Andie Case. The emotional pop-laced ballad sticks with you, bringing deep sincerity and a vulnerable perspective. In “What Am I Looking For?”, Case explores the experience of being lost and waiting for a turning point to come afoot. The experience is one that is detailed and grueling, yet beautifully raw and intimate. In her writing, Case does not hold back from laying it all on the table and exposing the inner workings of her mind and life experiences to listeners. The audience is taken on a journey that brings you throughout a life, its hardships, and the difficulties of navigating change – as well as dealing with the repercussions that change brings. It is a story that is attention-grabbing and lends its entire heart to you, all while showcasing musical talent and hard work. The sound created for “What Am I Looking For?” reminds me of a familiar, nostalgic blend of elements of genres like pop, country, and singer-songwriter. Case’s sound on this track comes with a delicacy and softness much like Norah Jones, including light piano and sweet vocals. This song’s lyrics, while they match the tone of the song, have an impact similar to lyrics written by artists like Amy Winehouse. There is interactive, personal, and experimental aspects layered together in “What Am I Looking For?” that make your head (metaphorically, but I did experience a take or two) turn. Case writes with a maturity and understanding attitude that allows her personality and talent to shine through, and this track makes that all the more evident. In addition, the range of her vocals is not only catchy but makes me think of other genres like classic rock, alternative, etc. With her ranging vocal ability, raw writing, and smart execution, she could dominate in many different categories – all while still sticking true to the beauty of pop music. Andie Case is an independent singer/songwriter from Seattle, Washington. Since a performance at her fifth-grade talent show, Case has wanted to pursue music and has continued on doing so. She draws inspiration from artists Demi Lovato, Hayley Williams, Christinia Aguilera, and Kelly Clarkson. After uploading covers of songs by artists like Rixton and Jason Derulo to her YouTube, as well as her own material, Case’s music received worldwide attention. She has been featured on the reality program “Breaking Band” and competition show “Usher’s Megastar Talent Competition, where she won the grand prize of the competition. Her music comes from a personal, deep place and as her career is unfolding, she continues to shed light on matters like sexuality and addiction. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW ANDIE CASE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

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