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ONE OR EIGHT’s new release “Don’t Tell Nobody” details the thrill of a secret relationship. A real Romeo and Juliet romance, the couple’s friends do not approve, constantly stating that the pairing is “bad news”, but those involved could not care less. They find the secrecy exciting, and claim that they are showing everyone “how a bad thing works.” The soundscape is upbeat and mixes lyrics in both English and Japanese, showcasing ONE OR EIGHT’s background and culture. Certain lyrics even have a rap component, linking the sound and pace of the song itself to the elation and thrill of the relationship. ONE OR EIGHT’s lyrics perfectly encapsulates this condemned agreement, and their chorus states, “To hell with all the reasons / I don’t feel the shame / You could call it an addiction / And you know I like the pain.” The two are self aware and in agreement, even though they recognize they should not be doing this. They go on to sing, “Yeah, I can keep a dirty secret cause you know that I can’t / Can’t stop doing the things that we doing, the things that we doing / Don’t tell nobody”. The last two verses repeat this ideal, driving home notion of a secret fling that they gravitate towards no matter what. With a name deriving from the Japanese term for “all or nothing”, ONE OR EIGHT is a boy band featuring eight Japanese singers. They formed through the audition program WARMs DIG, and with their lone single on streaming services have amassed over 150K monthly streamers. “Don’t Tell Nobody” has over 300,000 streams since its release on August 16th, clearly showing the group’s popularity and devoted fan base. The group worked with One Republic’s Ryan Tedder and BTS’s David Stewart to create this ultra pop-rap track. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more fun music from ONE OR EIGHT. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW ONE OR EIGHT: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

This song, “Sunshine” by Alex Badger, is a summer anthem that tells the story of the aftermath of a short lived relationship. A story about love and about growth and self-acceptance, Badger shares in this song how it’s natural to be doubtful but you have to be true to yourself. Lyrics like “you say I’m like sunshine, though I tell you I’m like rain” and “I’ll go chase oblivion while you chase the next girl,” tell this story by showcasing how you can’t deny who you are but that might not always be what works with another person. At the end of the day, the most important thing you can be is happy with yourself. “Sunshine” by Alex Badger is a pop rock, indie song that relies on atmospheric melodies and strong percussion to paint a strong picture of a summertime moment that’s slipped away. Starting off on the mellow side with a simple guitar strum backing soft vocals, you’re drawn slowly into the song, the beat and percussion picking up almost a minute through the three and a half minute total. Badger builds the tension throughout the piece by balancing the intensity of the instrumentals with the smoothness of her voice, building in moments of quiet in between the moments of strength. Overall, Alex Badger has managed to create a song that perfectly captures both a strong feeling and an aesthetic, tying together the two to share her message. Alex Badger is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter born in British Columbia and currently based in East Vancouver, Canada. A creator of artsy pop rock and indie-pop, Badger has already gathered an impressive amount of fans in her budding career, drawing people who love her catchy percussion and deep storytelling. She released her first single, “Follow,” on November 2, 2023, followed by her second single, “Gum,” on March 14, 2024. “Sunshine” is her latest release. It was produced by JP Maurice, mixed by Ben Etter, mastered by Stu McKillop, with drums performed by Nathan Pope. Use the links below to listen to more of her music! Written By Morgan Fischer FOLLOW Alex Badger: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

Shining like a light in the dark, Okean Elzy has released their uplifting new single, "Lighthouse (feat. John Rzeznik)." The track fosters a message of hope and unity, aiming to inspire the people of Ukraine and beyond. Shedding light on the meaning behind the song, Okean Elzy’s lead vocalist Sviastoslav ‘Slava’ Vakarchuk states, "Lighthouse is a very powerful metaphor for me. As a Ukrainian I couldn't think of a better metaphor to express our hope for the future, which is part of why the song and album bear that name." Music with a purpose, a portion of the proceeds from "Lighthouse" will be donated to United24, an initiative launched by the president of Ukraine in support of the country during the ongoing war.  Exuding an essence similar to the Goo Goo Dolls' "Better Days," Okean Elzy's "Lighthouse" features a heartfelt soundscape that complements the song's warm and hopeful message. The moving track starts with a lush combination of tender piano lines and guitar riffs, later kicking things up a notch with the driving drums provided by blink-182's Travis Barker. Frontman John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls lends his voice to "Lighthouse," resulting in an undeniable chemistry between Vakarchuk and Rzeznik as they trade expressive lines and create rich harmonies together over climatic choruses. Founded in 1994, Okean Elzy is a five-piece rock band hailing from Lviv, Ukraine. The group already fill stadiums in Ukraine and now they're expanding their reach by releasing their first English-language album, Lighthouse . Okean Elzy have released two singles from the album so far, "Voices Are Rising" and "Lighthouse," gaining international attention with the former as they have gotten airplay in Germany and acclaim in the UK. To support the upcoming album, Okean Elzy will embark on their largest North American tour to date, kicking off on October 21st in Toronto, ON. Some of the tour's proceeds will be donated to the Open Eyes Fund, specifically supporting their Drive For Life initiative with the goal of delivering 30 ambulances and essential medical equipment to the frontlines in Ukraine. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW OKEAN ELZY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Rita Mae utilizes her own stardom to project the imminence of it in her latest single “Big Star”.  The character the piece is based upon is a reflection of who everyone wants to be, for a time.  The star of the room, the center of interest who doesn’t try to be.  But, popularity is never sustainable, requiring the ever dwindling resource of human attention to be maintained.  The character shines bright, but doing so runs through all that fuel.  She’s true to the stories told about her, but not much else.  How can someone be effortless with such expectations, in order to maintain such appearances she must be unattainable and never stop keeping up with herself till she burns out.  The song is an intimate work of art, the type of piece so evidently written with a specific reader in mind but so quickly translated to 100 alternates in its listeners’ perspective. The song begins as a peaceful ballad, lying out the groundwork for the emotive instrumentals to come.  It introduces her downfall before it introduces her, presenting the sacrifice for fame and the bounty of it.  As Rita’s voice shifts, so does their narrative.  Her vocals soften yet become louder, a worrying tone marking her change in speaking directly to her subject.  Rita makes this shift harshly noticed, going back and forth from addressing her audience, to their entertainment; skillfully representing the audience’s prominent role in such a story.  As the song goes on, her concern grows till it reaches a peak, or rather a drop, as this star seems to fall to Earth.  Here, an entire chorus seems to join them in the calling out of this crash.  It's an impeccable display of the true value of this attention, a million voices, but not one able to reach her. Rita Mae is an independent singer and songwriter who’s genre has made them stand out nearly as much as her skillful writing.  She combines the best of music into her own sound with almost Radiohead like instrumentals and structure but lyricism and vocals comparable more to pop artists.  And she’s done all this by only 23 years old.  She’s based in, and originally from, New Zealand where she’s completely entrenched herself in the music scene.  Her collaborations and growing audience all predict the rise of a “Big Star”, details of her upcoming releases and access to her existing ones are available below. Written By Hailey Schap FOLLOW RITA MAE: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

Indie-pop singer, NOEL, is back with another heartfelt single entitled “Flowers at a Funeral.” This track is about a relationship that deserved a better ending than it was given, based on how NOEL was not able to treat this former partner in the way he felt they deserved. Love can be difficult, and it can happen that we mess things up with a person that we truly cared about. Fans of artists like Lewis Capaldi, Ed Sheeran, and James Arthur will be captivated by NOEL’s poignant lyricism and emotional vocals. If you haven’t already, make sure to add “Flowers at a Funeral” to your streaming library. “Flowers at a Funeral” by NOEL begins with a string-plucking intro that later complements the rawness of the lyrics. Here, NOEL confesses that he felt a lot of shame because he wasn't ready for the relationship that he was in, and it wasn't the fault of his ex. In the chorus, he uses the solemn metaphor “You don’t see in the moment / Like flowers at a funeral / And only when it's over / It's beautiful.” Sometimes, we let the sadness in a situation mask how much there is beauty in it too. While NOEL wanted to make the person he was with happy and in love, his heart hadn’t quite caught up to his head, and it caused the relationship to end in a way that he didn’t feel they deserved. 21-year-old NOEL is a rising pop artist based in Stockholm, Sweden. After an injury when he was 17 that ended his football dreams, he shifted his focus to music, learning to sing and play instruments. He rose in popularity through posting covers on his TikTok. Now, he has collaborated with industry professionals and garnered a fanbase, accumulating over 45,000 monthly listeners on Spotify alone. With his passionate vocals and authentic lyricism, I am certain that we will see him continue to grow in stardom. If you enjoyed “Flowers at a Funeral,” make sure to check out NOEL’s first EP Headed North that released earlier this year. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW NOEL: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok   | Facebook   | YouTube

sixten’s latest single “Atlantic” displays a self-reflective journey of becoming so enwrapped in unrequited feelings finally seems as distant as your former relationship. It’s normal for you to feel distant and cast aside by the person you care for. It seems as though the end of your deeply personal proximity happened recently, but it was over a year ago. The miles between you two curate pondering feelings and questions about what you truly had. Everything has become muddled and you are left unsure of what occurred long ago. However, these blurred emotions become clearer over time. You’re unable to recall aspects of that long abandoned city, and the urge to get to know it and the object of your obsession has never waivered. It feels as though attaining reciprocity for your unrequited love will cure these feelings. Click here to listen to "Atlantic"! “Atlantic” is an indie pop 90’s inspired single that centers itself on traditional musical elements intertwined with modern flairs. At the beginning, we are introduced to prominent guitars playing off each other in harmony. These stringed elements resemble 90s feel-good summer vibes when paired with a sweetly soft vocal performance. Each lyric is delivered with a sincerity and narrative alignment common for sixten’s musical catalog. In the pre-chorus and chorus, a male voice harmonizes along, which adds a unique audible treat. Throughout each section of this single, there is slight reverberation that allows for prolongation of the instrumentation. What stands out about this instrumentation is the reliance on typical percussion and stringed elements. This curates an indie pop experience, leaning into modernity with its uniquely soft vocal performance and reverberation. sixten is a Swedish singer-songwriter duo currently based in Stockholm, Sweden. Formerly known as Strandels, sixten is a musical duo with siblings Tova and Sigge Strandell. Their music focuses primarily on their own lived experiences with love and identity. Traditional musical elements such as acoustic guitars and vocal harmonies are ever present throughout their musical catalog. They released their debut EP in 2016 to high success and received a few gold-certified singles. “Atlantic” is one of the singles off of their latest EP “Misemotional”. With this EP being released eight years after their debut EP, great success and storytelling progressions are highly expected and exceeded. Make sure to follow them on social media and give “Atlantic” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW SIXTEN: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook  | YouTube

This story of a now-ending relationship is being told from one person’s point of view as evidenced by it beginning with “I know that you don’t understand.” The repetition clues the audience into the fact that this decision hasn’t been an easy one, the narrator has worked out this situation many times in their head. So, as the audience, we stay to try and understand what the other party doesn’t. Further down the line, the narrator sings about “letting go” not being “part of the plan.” Hm, what plan is that you may ask? Well, the next couple of lines brings some light to the full situation, in my humble opinion. “Knowing what you know, would you do it again?” In retrospect, I gather that this could be looked at two ways – one meaning “Would you cheat again if you knew it would cost you our relationship?” or “Would you go through this relationship again knowing that it would end and we wouldn’t make it to the forever we thought we would?” Either way, the relationship is ending, but the narrator seems to be okay with this fact. “Don’t need your stories, I live in reality.” With these lines, I feel as though the former may be the situation we’re currently in with the narrator. The former love interest is trying to explain the situation in which they, presumably got caught cheating in. Describing this song, Kel writes “"Shut It Down" is all about finally saying no to situations that don’t serve you.”” I’d say that this presumed situation is certainly one that wouldn’t serve or behoove someone to stay in, remaining with a partner that is unfaithful can lead to resentment, STD’s, and a diminished sense of self-worth. I believe that Kel’s use of the phrase “shut it down” means stopping the former lover’s from having any access to her and letting him live in his “fantasy” world he’s created where he isn’t unfaithful and everything is hunky dory. “Shutting it down” is the saying no and refusing to accept the unacceptable. “Bury all your bones, here lies a man.” The former love interest, a man, was once considered to be a man, but now the narrator’s view of them has changed. The narrator also mentions him chasing after the narrator like a golden retriever, a dog. In most instances, a golden retriever is seen in a positive light, as a “good boy” who is loyal to their owner. But, in this instance, it would appear that the man in question wasn’t loyal and is now trying to tap into some of that golden retriever energy, however, the narrator says it’s too late. In a further description of the song, Kel states ““I've always believed that we’re defined more by the things we say no to than by the things we say yes to. Life constantly pulls us in different directions, demanding our attention, time, money, energy, and peace. This song gives listeners permission to say no and choose their own peace of mind… and have a bit of fun while doing it.”” I thought that a powerful statement, the belief that we’re defined more by the things we say no to than the things said yes to. It’s quite empowering to be able to stand on your morals and to deny someone the ability to trifle with your emotions or life. I also understand the “fun” part of the song as well, as I’ve noted that the beat of the song is a bit like footsteps, so it’s like the narrator is walking away from this situation that no longer serves them and gaining so much more from that “no” they’ve just delivered to someone that had previously, presumably, gotten so many “yes’s” from them, albeit, undeservedly so. Yay to reclaiming your time and energy! Kel describes her musical sound as “electro indie dance pop”. Adore notes being inspired by artists such as Julia Michaels and Jon Bellion. While 2021’s “Fool For The Pain” sees Adore exploring the experience of staying in situations that aren’t the best for us, 2024’s “Shut it Down” seems to be the response to that song and shows a maturity in choices made in Adore’s life, musically speaking. “Shut it Down” is a power anthem that can be applied to every area of life, one can choose to no longer be a “Fool for the Pain” and can “Shut It Down” and live a more peaceful and meaningful life, full of people who uplift, encourage, and enhance in your life instead of people who zap your energy, disrupt your peace, and give more than they take. Kel’s online presence includes thousands of followers across her social media accounts and offers fans a more in-depth and inside look at both the work behind her singles as well as the meaning behind them. As a new fan, I shall take my newfound inspiration from Kel and “Shut it Down” in areas of my life that are no longer serving me or that hinder my happiness. If you, too, wish to “Shut it Down” and live out a more content and satisfying existence, be sure to keep up with all things Kel Adore as she inspires us all with her music one single at a time by following her at her socials below! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW KEL ADORE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook   | YouTube

MOTHICA is an absolute force to be reckoned with. With each new release, she always outdoes herself. Every single project is an unforgettable masterpiece and is destined to land on the charts. With the release of her flawless third album, Kissing Death , comes the highly infectious focus single, “Another High.” The song explores the singer’s struggle with addiction. She admits that the drugs and alcohol are her way to self-medicate. To cope with her depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, she turns to these vices as a way to forget. It is a vicious cycle, something she has fought for years. The lyrics are reminiscent of the singer’s 2020 single, “Vices.” She recognizes that these habits are unhealthy, but when she stops, she just finds another one to indulge in – as long as she no longer feels the pain. Her transparency about her struggle with addiction allows those who relate to feel less alone in their battle. Furthermore, the song hints at the singer’s recovery from not only addiction but also depression and suicidal ideation. “Another High” shares a lyric with the album’s second track, “Exit Plan.” In both songs, she asks: “How do you live when you don’t want to die anymore?” This is a key theme throughout Kissing Death and what inspired the album. She has seen growth in herself as well as healing from her suicidal ideation, allowing her to embrace life. While healing is not linear, and relapses and regressions will happen, MOTHICA is ready to take the next step in her journey. “Another High” is a cathartic release for the singer, expressing her exhaustion from being stuck in this endless battle. Meanwhile, it serves as a reminder that addiction is not what defines you, and you can make it out alive. “Another High” contains MOTHICA’s classic dark-pop soundscape while upholding her new style. The song begins with a riff on the bass and light synth in the background, giving a taste of what is yet to come. The bass leads the song with bass percussion that complements each other. The pre-chorus introduces additional synth that transitions perfectly into the chorus with a strong burst before leveling out. While the phrases “heavily distorted electric guitars” and “subtle” do not often go together, MOTHICA has found a way to make the two sound like kindred spirits. She adds them to the layers of sound, producing her unique and individualistic soundscape. The second verse contains similar instrumentation as the first but with added vocals and synth that enhance the complexity of the song. The second pre-chorus utilizes synth bass to bring the production even deeper before exploding back into the chorus. The guitar continues in the background, adding to the complex layers of the production. In the post-chorus, the sound transitions to muted drums and percussion while putting more focus on the electric guitar. This then turns into impressive licks on the guitar as the vocals continue, showcasing MOTHICA’s immense passion and range. In the outro, the guitar mellows out abruptly and switches to an acoustic guitar. MOTHICA’s stunning voice closes out the track with the hook repeating: “I’m just looking for another high.” This emulates the feeling of exhaustion from fighting her addiction. She is tired of the intensity and just wants to rest. “Another High” is another excellent example of MOTHICA’s outstanding talent and range. She captivates audiences with her incredible soundscapes, making them fall in love with her all over again after every new release. MOTHICA is an alt-pop singer-songwriter from Oklahoma, now based in Los Angeles. The stage name “MOTHICA” is born from the artist’s fascination with moths and their attraction to the light, symbolizing her journey through the dark to get to the brighter side. It also represents her own self-destructive habits, like a moth flying into a flame. She began releasing music independently in 2015 making her debut with her EP, Mythic . Since then, she has released three LPs ( Blue Hour , Nocturnal , Kissing Death ) and four EPs ( Mythic , Heavy Heart , Ash es, Forever Fifteen ). MOTHICA is a self-made musician, releasing music through her own imprint, Heavy Heart Records, in partnership with Rise Records/BMG. Her style blends into other genres, from rock, dark pop, synthwave, goth, and electronica to create her individualistic sound. The artist writes songs that share relatable stories of mental health, anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, addiction, and other subjects that are often taboo. MOTHICA embraces these experiences in a way that is both cathartic for herself and comforting for listeners who relate. The singer has had several career highlights, including her single “VICES” hitting #2 on the Pop iTunes chart, her phenomenal track about sexual assault, “Buzzkill,” garnering over 51 million streams on Spotify, and her rendition of Bring Me The Horizon ’s “Can You Feel My Heart” earning over 25 million streams. MOTHICA has been on the road consistently for the past two years, touring North America and Europe with Coheed & Cambria and Halestorm , as well as performing at several festivals. This fall, she will be embarking on her headline tour in the US and the UK/EU, where multiple shows have already sold out or have been upgraded to larger venues. She will also perform at the Mayhem Festival in San Bernadino, CA in October! Check out her tour website for more information on dates and tickets, and follow her on all social media for any new announcements! Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW MOTHICA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Photo Credit: www.carriganboynton.com Finally, after 8 long years of releasing original music, pop singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and arranger Jessica Woodlee has drooped her debut album, "JESS". Filled with a collection of a variety of new and previously released songs, "JESS" has 13 tracks that take you on a journey of being young, discovering who you are and experiencing whatever life throws at you. TRACKLIST T.O.M.L. Suburbs Dairy Aisle Whiskey Everything & Nothing Pity Party Has Been Rainy Day (ft. Teesa) Dude. Skinny Dipping Placebo By Now Breathe Again (Hope) Jessica Woodlee is currently based in Boston, Massachusetts where she attends Berklee College of Music . She has loved music for her entire life, growing up listening to legends like Carole King and Eric Clapton . In 2017, she debuted as an artist with her EP, "Karma" which had more of that classic sound that she was inspired by within her childhood. From then on, she became more infatuated with the modern pop singer/songwriter scene, diving deeper into complex lyricism and electronic production, becoming a fan of artists like Taylor Swift , Maggie Rogers and Maisie Peters but still keeping her classic blues and rock roots intertwined within her unique sound. Now with 8 years of experience, Jessica Woodlee has an impressive discography and over 800k streams on Spotify alone. She spends a lot of her time performing live and just opened for beloved Danish singer, Christopher , this past February at his sold out show at Brighton Music Hall . Previously, she was named one of Atwood Magazine 's "50 artists to watch in 2023". Now here we are, with her debut album which showcases just how far she has come in her career thus far. Let's dive in. T.O.M.L. Opening up the album is the song "T.O.M.L.", a song fully produced by Berklee College of Music students and the ultimate pop/rock anthem that sums up what it feels like to be young and in your 20's in this day and age. "T.O.M.L." stands for "Time Of My Life", which Jessica expresses she is NOT having. Growing up we're told to enjoy our lives while we're young, because we won't get those years back. They're supposed to be the best years of our entire lives - but in our generation, it feels like the most stressful. We're broke, we're stressed, we're heartbroken, we're confused, we're full of anxiety and it's definitely not a good time. Instead of partying and living it up, we're worried whether or not we can find a job, get out of debt and have a house before we're forty. "T.O.M.L." is a relatable song for all the millennials and Gen Zer's out there who feel like they just can't catch a break. The punk rock influence on the style reminds me of Olivia Rodrigo and GAYLE , and it gives the perfect amount of angst and attitude to really amp up the pint up emotions that come with being young nowadays. Suburbs Growing up in a town where there's nothing to do leaves too much time for you to be alone with just yourself and your thoughts. It makes you feel kind of trapped, and curious about what else could be out there waiting for you. Sometimes you feel like you can't live up to your fullest potential, and that living in this smaller place is holding you back. Part of you wants to appreciate where you've come from, but when you're somebody with big dreams it's a lot harder to stay in one place. This sums up what "Suburbs" by Jessica Woodlee is about. This song sonically takes me back to Taylor Swifit 's Fearless days. It sounds like early 2000's when pop was more folk and rock influenced with more emphasis on acoustic guitar but with just a little bit of funky synth mixed in there. Jess expresses that this song was also inspired by the likes of Maggie Rogers and Maude Latour but with Lizzy McAlpine lyrics. Dairy Aisle Next, we have "Dairy Aisle" which is a bittersweet, RnB influenced bedroom-pop song about "the one that got away". In this song, Jessica explores the idea of what would happen if she ran into someone she used to have a romantic fling with, but it didn't work out. At this point it's been two years since she's seen them, but she's finding herself thinking about them. In this case, she's wondering all the "what ifs"; like what if it actually worked out, what if she was able to actually see them again, what if she just happened to run into them in the dairy aisle at the grocery store? This song was written while Jessica was experimenting with sensory descriptions, and so it has a lot of imagery. You're able to place yourself in Jessica's shoes and imagine exactly where she is and what she is going through. It's a really cool song to experience. Whiskey Falling for someone who you know doesn't love you the same is probably one of the most painful things to deal with; especially when they're somebody you have to see often. "Whiskey" is about crushing on a friend, but you can't bring yourself to tell them because you know they don't like you back. So you think about drinking, not only to cope with the messy feelings but also to use the alcohol as an excuse in case you slip up and confess your love. "Whiskey" is more of an experimental, alternative pop song that focuses heavy on synths and production. The soundscape is meant to match the chaotic emotion that Jess is singing about. "Whiskey" is such a relatable, well written song and the lyrics read off the tongue like poetry. Cheers to all the people out there who have suffered from unrequited love. Everything & Nothing Moving on to track 5, we have "Everything & Nothing", a strong and vulnerable song about society's impossible standards. Completely self-written by Jessica and the only explicit song on this album, "Everything & Nothing" sums up the old saying "damned if you do, damned if you don't". This song has a bit of a country / western blues tone with emphasis on acoustic guitar and heavy drums. It builds into a flourishing soundscape that protests the challenges we face everyday as people just trying to make it by. We can't do too much because then we're a show off, but we can't do too little because then we're lazy. Jessica sings, "just be everything and nothing" , because that's just how silly it sounds when others try to have a say in what we do in our lives. It's literally impossible. Pity Party "Pity Party" is a raw, gentle piano ballad that really hits in the feels if you've ever been in a relationship like the one Jessica sings about here. "Pity Party" is about being with someone who is only with you because they feel bad for you; but they also like knowing that you rely on them, and so they inflict hurt on you on purpose because they feel like they can get away with it. This song has one of the best written choruses I've heard so far this year; "Well I'd rather be alone with myself, than feel alone with all of you / And I'd rather learn to love myself, than convince myself that you do / There ain't room in this pity party for two". The heart-wrenching lyrics mixed with the minimal production and soaring background harmonies make this a break-up song for the books. Has Been "Has Been" is another vulnerable self-written song by Jessica that touches on the topic of not making it as far in life as she's wanted to at this point in her career. She asks the question, "can someone be born a has been?" as if her time to shine has passed before she even got to chance to make it. This is a situation that many of us can relate to. We feel stuck in one place while we watch others move on in their lives; it stings a little bit to watch others success while we're still doing the same old same old - even though we have all these people around telling us how smart and talented we are and that we should've made our dreams come true by now. It's a confusing, disappointing struggle to go through, especially in Jessica's case with something as tough as the music industry. "Has Been" is a sparkling, radio-pop track with a catchy melody that will surely have you relating to the lyrics. Rainy Day (ft. Teesa) "Rainy Day" is a stunning, cenematic track that features a fellow Berklee student and friend of Jessica's, Teesa D'Agostino , whom is a pianist and film composer who plays live piano on this song! Aside from the absolute tear-jerkingly beautiful piano, "Rainy Day" features loud crashing drums that make you feel like you're sitting in front an orchestra experiencing a live romantic drama musical. Considering how the lyrics of "Rainy Day" also feel like they belong in a prestigious poem and it's paired with this type of soundscape, it definitely feels like it belongs in a movie. The song reminiscences on the good moments of a relationship that didn't work out, and in the end Jess sings about how since they're gone she guesses she will just save all her love for a rainy day. This song feels like running through New York City on a rainy day and just losing your mind over the one that got away. Dude. Next we have "Dude." which was originally released in February as an Anti-Valentines Day song and is described by Jessica as an "anti-love banger". "Dude." is about something many people have unfortunately fell victim to - being friendzone. Catching feelings for a friend who only wants to be friends is actual torture. In this song, Jessica sings, "I think I'm calling you the one, but you're calling me dude". Although this is a crappy situation to be in, the track takes a lighthearted, comedic and witty approach. So if you've ever been in this situation, this song can help you jam out and have some fun with it, even it it still hurts. Skinny Dipping "Skinny Dipping" is about saying goodbye to Summer; in particular, that very last Summer that you have with your childhood friends before you have to grow up and everything in life changes. It's a nostalgic pop/rock banger with some punk influence that sounds straight out of the early 2000's; it sounds like it belongs in a teenage rom-com movie about what happens over Summer break, and this is what plays in the end credits. Literally everything about this song is perfection and everything blends together super well - if there's a song that's going to get stuck in your head, I put my bets on this one. I can hear a lot of the Maisie Peters influence in this particular song; it's specifically reminiscent of her signature vocal production and her song "Cate's Brother". Placebo "Placebo" is a dark, bluesy track with a sensual and soulful groove that has heavy emphasis on a classic electric guitar and blues notes. The song is about having that realization that a romantic relationship can't solve your problems - only you can. Yes, they may be able to mask the pain for a while or be a good distraction, but they can't really fix those deep internal issues that you hold on to deep inside. Those are the kind of issues that only you can change for yourself and nobody else. In this scenerio, Jessica is calling this person she's been using to soften the blow of her personal problems a "placebo", aka, a fake treatment for something that is meant to trick you into thinking it'll help you. Jessica explains that this relationship was fun while it lasted, but she has to figure herself out on her own. By Now Written back in 2021 on Jessica's 18th birthday, "By Now" is a really personal song about becoming an adult and not being ready to grow up. A lot of us have felt this same way when we turned 18; like, "how in the world am I supposed to be an adult when I don't feel like one?". At that point in our lives, most of us still don't even know what we want to do yet. Some of us haven't even graduated high school on our 18th birthdays - but just like that, all of sudden within one day we go from being a kid, to being an adult. In "By Now", Jessica sings of that guilt we all have felt when you have no idea who you are or what you want to be when you turn 18, but the whole world makes you feel like you're supposed to already have it all figured out. Out of all the songs on this album, in my personal opinion, this one is one of the most vocally emotional as Jessica just lets her heart out on her sleeve. The layers of acoustic guitar and the heavenly harmonies in the background add even more depth to an already vulnerable and heart-wrenching song. Breathe Again (Hope) Closing out the album at track number 13, we have "Breath Again (Hope)". Let me start by saying, this is such a perfect song to end an album on, especially with all the themes of uncertainty and heartbreak, it's nice to end on a positive high note. Life would be nothing without hope, and this is very optimistic song that lifts people up and gives them that little spark of faith that they need to keep on going. "Breathe Again (Hope)" has a hook that is meant to be an ear-worm, so that it gets stuck in your head and it makes you want to sing along every time you hear it. I bet it's an amazing song to experience live and to sing with others. When I listened to this song for the first time and I got to the bridge, I think my heart actually stopped because of how insanely good it was. I said out loud alone in my living room "SING, GIRL!!". Hearing Jessica let it all go and sing these heartfelt lyrics like her life depended on it actually brought tears to my eyes. This is a song the world needed. Thank you so much, Jessica. Jessica Woodlee is a force to be reckoned with, and I really hope she knows that. After 8 long years of releasing music, she compiled 13 tracks into what would become her debut album, "JESS" and I don't think she could've done it any better. Jessica has a way with her words and she draws you in with her genuine demeanor. Her lyrics are poetic, intelligent and well written, but yet they're so easy to understand and still remain relatable which it is very hard to do both. She is an artist for the people, and this album is for all the coming-of-agers. I know that Jessica will continue to grow and evolve, not only as an artist but as a human being and it's so great that we are able to grow with her. She may have a lot of experience, but this is still only the beginning for Jessica and I can't wait to see what comes next. Make sure to follow Jessica Woodlee below to keep up on her journey, and to see if she's playing any shows near you! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW JESSICA: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube | Website *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

Kissing Death by MOTHICA via mothica.com Kissing Death by MOTHICA brings another compelling installment to the phenomenal singer’s discography. The album is not just a collection of songs, but a cohesive visual project that upholds the singer’s regular themes of depression, addiction, suicidal ideation, and her attraction to the dark. Each song has its own corresponding music video, bringing each individual track to life. MOTHICA flawlessly executes her creative idea with vivid imagery and stunning visuals. Every song shares a unique story to build one overarching theme — falling in love with your demons. MOTHICA’s grim aesthetic is what initially drew me to the artist years ago, and her raw talent and ability to mesmerize audiences keep me on the edge, anticipating every new chapter. Track List The Void Exit Plan Another High Doomed Curiosity Killed the Moth Red The Reaper Toxins Afterlife Mirage Oblivion for Two Kissing Death MOTHICA is an alt-pop singer-songwriter from Oklahoma, now based in Los Angeles. The stage name “MOTHICA” is born from the artist’s fascination with moths and their attraction to the light, symbolizing her journey through the dark to get to the brighter side. It also represents her own self-destructive habits, like a moth flying into a flame. She made her debut in 2015 with her independently released EP, Mythic . Since then, she has released three LPs ( Blue Hour , Nocturnal , Kissing Death ) and four EPs ( Mythic , Heavy Heart , Ashes , Forever Fifteen ). MOTHICA is a self-made musician, releasing music through her own imprint, Heavy Heart Records, in partnership with Rise Records/BMG. Her style blends into other genres, from rock, dark pop, synthwave, goth, and electronica to create her individualistic sound. The artist writes songs that share relatable stories of mental health, anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, addiction, and other subjects that are often taboo. MOTHICA embraces these experiences in a way that is both cathartic for herself and comforting for listeners who relate. The singer has had several career highlights, including her single “VICES” hitting #2 on the Pop iTunes chart, her phenomenal track about sexual assault, “Buzzkill,” garnering over 51 million streams on Spotify, and her rendition of Bring Me The Horizon ’s “Can You Feel My Heart” earning over 25 million streams. MOTHICA has been on the road consistently for the past two years, touring North America and Europe with Coheed & Cambria and Halestorm , as well as several festivals. This fall, she will be embarking on her headline tour in the US and the UK/EU, where multiple shows have already sold out or have been upgraded to larger venues. She will also perform at the Mayhem Festival in San Bernadino, CA in October! Check out her tour website for more information on dates and tickets, and follow her on all social media for any new announcements! The Void MOTHICA begins the album with a unique track. “The Void” is more of an interlude, containing a short lyrical intro before transitioning into an epic display of synth instrumentation. The lyrics introduce the dark nature of the album. Similarly to her last album, Nocturnal , the opening song packs a lot of punch in a smaller space. With “The Void” the singer once again brilliantly kicks off her latest project with an unforgettable song that effortlessly encapsulates the overarching theme of the eleven remaining tracks. Exit Plan MOTHICA has an uncanny way of creating the most devastating tracks about mental health and transforming them into absolute bangers. The production in the post-chorus of “Exit Plan” has been playing in my mind on repeat since Kissing Death was released. The infectious song divulges the singer’s history of suicidal ideation. MOTHICA has been vocal about these thoughts, including her attempt when she was fifteen. However, this song is calling back to the past, and how her depression consumed her. In the chorus, she sings the hook: “Made an exit plan, but I left it on the shelf.” This is a common theme not only in Kissing Death but throughout her entire discography. However, this time she has a whole new outlook on death. She ends the chorus with the iconic line: “But how do you live when you don’t wanna die anymore?” before bursting into the electrifying composition. With this switch-up, she leaves the audience contemplating the sudden shift in the music and lyrics. Another High MOTHICA effortlessly enthralls her audience with her stunning vocals and intense pop-rock productions in Kissing Death’ s focus track. With distorted electric guitars and infectious melodies, “Another High” naturally became one of my favorites from the album. The song explores the singer’s struggle with addiction and using substances as a vice to numb the pain. The poignant lyrics give the listener an insight into the exhaustion that comes with fighting this battle. The song mirrors a lyric from the previous track when she sings: "How do you live when you don't wanna die anymore." The repetition of this line encapsulates a major theme of the album and represents where MOTHICA is currently at in her mental health. The connection is something I noticed immediately, leaving my jaw on the floor due to the brilliant songwriting. For a more detailed description of “Another High,” check back tomorrow for my song review! Doomed The first single from Kissing Death is also the most soul-crushing one. “Doomed” shares the singer’s natural draw to the darkness. The heart-wrenching ballad explores MOTHICA’s depression and trauma. While the artist is no stranger to songs about mental health, this song broke my heart in a brand new way. Rather than turning to the darkness after undergoing a life of hardship and pain, she was naturally predisposed to it — she was “doomed from the start.” Each one of her honest lyrics cuts through like a knife, from her relatable anecdote about being a former “gifted child” to the gut-wrenching truth of surviving child sexual abuse. Due to the stunning yet eerie soundscape and emotional lyrics, “Doomed” quickly became my most-played track in the month of March — despite being released 5 days before April began. I knew then that Kissing Death would be a masterpiece of a project. Curiosity Killed the Moth Released prior to the album, “Curiosity Killed the Moth” is one of the most satisfying songs that made me even more excited for the record. The track contains a dark guitar that remains steady as MOTHICA relays her own toxic habits. The name is a play on the popular idiom “curiosity killed the cat” but alters it to fit the singer’s persona. Throughout the track, she utilizes moth imagery and metaphors to describe her propensity to endanger herself. In the chorus, she sings one of my favorite lines of the album: “Me and Icarus... are cut from the same cloth.” Similarly to the legendary Greek myth, MOTHICA flies too close to the light and is destined to burn up. It is a clever comparison that showcases the singer’s impeccable songwriting and complex storytelling. Furthermore, the moth theme does not stop at the lyrics. In the intro, a moth can be heard buzzing before fading out for the music to take its place. Then, in the outro, it returns. But this time the buzzing abruptly ends with the sound of the wings igniting, like the insect flew into a bug zapper. This is just another meticulous detail inserted by MOTHICA that places her in my top three artists of all time. Red “Red” contains an intense alt-rock vibe with an electrifying guitar and powerful beats that instantly propel the listener into the incredible soundscape. The song continues with the theme of addiction and using vices to self-medicate. While MOTHICA knows this is not healthy and she wants to escape this vicious cycle, she cannot help but be pulled under. She uses drugs and alcohol as an escape from reality but loses control. And in the end, she will never learn until she sees red. She hates this side of herself, and yet she cannot let go. The intense nature of the production through the emotional lyrics and her passionate voice makes “Red” one of her most powerful songs. The Reaper “The Reaper” is a twisted kind of love song. It is dedicated to the King of Death himself. This is another track that was released prior to the album and contains the first glimpse of the album’s overall storyline – falling in love with Death. The song shows the toxic relationship she has with the Grim Reaper. In the second verse, she sings my favorite lines of the track: “It's not еasy to find// Somebody dependablе// I don't care that he thinks// My life is expendable// At least he's reliable.” These lyrics served as a sucker punch to the gut the first time I heard them. While she has gone through relationships that have ended in heartache, “the reaper” has always been constant. Even though “he” is hoping for a premature death. Despite these somber lyrics, the song contains an infectious dark-pop production in the classic MOTHICA fashion, making you want to dance while you cry. Toxins “Toxins” takes on a unique point of view. MOTHICA is no longer singing as herself but from the perspective of a venomous spider. The lyrics represent the arachnid hunting its prey, sneaking in before landing the final blow. While the song was originally created for a scrapped Halloween project, MOTHICA kept it for Kissing Death as she felt it encapsulated the idea. The spider symbolizes the grim reaper, sticking to the shadows and stalking MOTHICA. Even when she feels safe and happy, he is there just out of sight, waiting for the right moment to strike. The song has a heavy bass line that lulls the listener into the song before breaking into the infectious dark-pop production. The soundscape emulates the eerie, creepy vibe of the spooky season, making it a perfect song to play on Halloween. Afterlife With the outstanding alt-rock instrumentation, “Afterlife” instantly became one of my favorite MOTHICA songs. It was released prior to the album, and I immediately sent it to everyone I know begging them to add it to their music library. The intense soundscape automatically propels the listener into a cinematic action film – much like the one found in the corresponding music video. The production contains a perfect mix of the singer’s iconic sounds through mesmerizing synths, stunning vocals, and a fiery electric guitar. Once again, MOTHICA has showcased her flawless and unique genre that is solely her own. Mirage MOTHICA shares her experience with imposter syndrome and her fear that everything good is going to fall apart. Or that it was never even real to begin with. In the pre-chorus, she alludes to this idea with the lyrics: “No matter how far I’ll go// I’m still running away// Nobody here, on my own// I keep losing my faith.” She keeps fighting for the things she wants but is afraid of losing it all. Then in the chorus, she sings: “Oh my God, I’m caught in a dream// Don’t believe a thing that I see// Fooled me once with the fantasy// Then I slow it down and took it from me// Mirage.” Just like the illusion found in the desert, MOTHICA is in disbelief that the things she has always wanted are right in front of her. She is in denial that she can be happy and thinks everything is a lie. And it is only a matter of time before it is revealed to be a mirage. In the second verse, she continues with the notion of not ever being truly happy by admitting that she is always asking for more: a smaller waist, a shiny new car, or a star on the Walk of Fame. Her small wins are overlooked by her insecurities and inability to appreciate what she has. This is something that many people experience and with the illusion of social media, it is difficult to believe you are not alone. However, MOTHICA has once again come through with a candid song that explores her own mental health while reassuring audiences that they are not alone. Oblivion for Two MOTHICA continues the story of her toxic relationship with the Grim Reaper. “Oblivion for Two” shares the dark story of loving death until the very end. She knows this relationship will only lead her to oblivion but she cannot let go. In the chorus, she sings the lyrics: “Oblivion for two// Me and you, ‘til the colors fade” and “Don’t know what to do, like with you ‘til we disintegrate.” These lines are an excellent example of how depression feels. You feel lost and confused, unsure of what to do until you realize your life is slipping away. But there is nothing you can do and you feel helpless. In the outro, she switches the lyrics to reveal that she does not want to go – not yet. She sings: “Afraid I’ll fall if I look, but I’m not ready yet// It’s the end of the world, and we’re right at the ledge// But would it be so bad if we’re the only ones left?” She admits that she is no longer ready to slip into oblivion. This is a stark contradiction from the lyric in her 2020 track, “Forever Fifteen” where she sings: “I can’t take it all the damage done// Wanna sink into oblivion.” It shows how much MOTHICA has healed over the years and now she is in a good place. She is no longer ready to leave this world and wants to hold on to it longer, even if that means she is the only one to survive the apocalypse. Kissing Death The title track closes out the album beautifully, tying together all the themes into one musical bow. MOTHICA confesses that she is tired of “kissing death.” She finally wants to live and actively fears dying now. When she was younger, she felt the call of death, feeling as if her time was sooner rather than later. She references her suicide attempt at fifteen again with the lyric: “Thought fifteen was right, so happy I was wrong.” This transitions into the chorus where the twist of the hook is revealed. MOTHICA sings, “I’m sick of kissing death// I’d rather be friends.” She continues to express her disdain for the reaper, appalled that he began his relationship with her so young. In the second verse, she sings: “And then I grew up, what the fuck were you doing hanging out with all the kids like me?” Now that she is older, she understands how tragic falling in love with death so young was. She is grateful she survived and is now avoiding it as long as possible. Ending the album with this track provides the listener with a sense of hope, whether for themselves or for a loved one, that things will get better and someday death will stop coming around. MOTHICA has a beautiful way of eloquently expressing how depression controls someone's life. It is all-consuming. A powerful force that is nearly impossible to fight back. She makes this concept easy to understand for those fortunate enough not to know what it is like and helps those who do feel less alone. Kissing Death shares her experience through clever metaphors and poetic imagery. Her honest lyricism about mental health is refreshing, something that is not touched on as much as it should be in pop music. She executes this concept flawlessly, showcasing her outstanding talent. With Kissing Death, MOTHICA has outdone herself (and this is saying a lot because Nocturnal was my most-played album two years in a row). She proves to be a force to be reckoned with and deserves to become one of the biggest names in music. Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

LOGAN has never failed to wow audiences with the savvy, powerful approach she takes into the pop genre, consistently making catchy bops for us to groove to; it's needless to say that "None of Your Business" easily falls into that category. "None of Your Business" is LOGAN's dismission of the noisy cynics, haters, and skeptics of her craft. It is her reiteration of the fact that their words "ain't sticks and stones" and the only opinion that matters is her own! Directly speaking to her listeners, LOGAN says to "put aside all of your fears", sending a message to those that don't fit perfectly into society's normative mold or mindlessly conform to its musical dictates. Carrying a sharp jazziness that translates into the pep in our step, LOGAN's track can be adopted as a trendy anthem for all of the talented misfits that refuse to follow what society thinks a singer is supposed to look like, sound like, or brand themselves as. In this funky, vibrant track, LOGAN triumphs amidst the ignorance and gives us a greater glimpse into her vast creative vision. With the well-timed release of "None of Your Business", LOGAN has graced her fans with yet another empowering, soulful tune to hum along to all day and all night! Throughout the song, LOGAN showcases a rich, velvety alto sound that we simply can't get enough of within 3 minutes. The track opens with a spunkily upbeat instrumental that sets the tone for the rest of the song and puts us in a positively unfazed mood. LOGAN's lyrics are able to evoke this sense of confidence and assurance within the listener, reminding us that we are the ones in control, the definers of our own narratives. When the sassy accompaniment takes a backseat to make room for the incoming bridge, LOGAN showcases her impressive range, hitting difficult notes and riffs with beautiful accuracy and ease. Overall, LOGAN's "None of Your Business" is a wonderfully crafted track that appeals and applies to people of all backgrounds, uniting them with her expertise and truly genuine passion for music! LOGAN, the soul-pop singer-songwriter from North Carolina, has equipped an "old soul, new music" motto that perfectly encapsulates her artistry and brand! "None of Your Business", in addition to some of LOGAN's other popular songs, like "Mixed Feelings" and "Finders Keepers", show off her diverse sound and ability to effectively mix finely aged jazz with the modernity of this genre's ever-changing inventory to create something entirely new and unique to her! At the young age of 24, this artist carries such a distinguished, classy charm that can be seen, heard, and felt through her aesthetically pleasing vocals, lyrics, and growing musical catalog. Inspired by similar icons such as Amy Winehouse and Remi Wolf who refuse to conform to any one genre, LOGAN has introduced her own spin on traditional pop music, enhancing it with her poise and refreshing originality. Don't forget to follow the socials below for more releases and updates! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW LOGAN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Savanna Leigh’s “favorite parts of me” is the final track of her latest EP “reminders of you”. I think everyone has a tendency to look back on their past, to think of all that has happened to them, and want it again. You see the “has been” through a rosy lens, forgetting about everything else that happened during it that may not have been so nice. Yet, this track is self-reflective in a way that says, “you don’t miss your ex, but you miss who you were during that relationship.” “favorite parts of me” is decorated in calm, temperate instrumentals and vivid vocals; it truly is an introspective song that invites its listeners into a safe space to explore what could have been, while also remaining self-aware of what would or could happen if you romanticize the past too much. “favorite parts of me” begins with this awesome synth and a bit of percussion. I love how immediate the soundscape is built in this song– as Leigh’s vocals very quickly join the mix, you’re given this world of sound that can only be described as “thought-provoking”. It’s not slow and it’s not very fast– it’s something in between, and I think that’s a very poetic way of telling the listeners that there are no right or wrong answers to the song’s message. The instrumentals and atmosphere remain generally the same throughout the runtime; although the chorus gains a little more energy than the verses, I enjoy how level the entire song is. The lyrics mirror that, telling a story about the narrator’s struggle with their current reality, and thinking that their past has everything that they don’t have now. The song’s first line even says, “I thought you could save me / wake me up from a bad dream”. The narrator’s life is shifting and changing– there’s an upheaval happening and they want the comfort of the past, but they quickly backtrack to say that, “I don’t miss you, I just miss who I was when I was with you”. I love how back-and-forth the song is between reflection and awareness, neither made to be more important than the other. “favorite parts of me” is a song that encourages its listeners to think about these things and to think back on their past. You should feel everything, and you should remember everything, but you should also know that it isn't your ex that you're missing, but instead the person you once were. "favorite parts of me" is a study in navigation, and of realization. Nashville-based singer-songwriter Savanna Leigh grew up in Florida surrounded by creatives that worked in the music industry. She wrote her first song at age 12 that showcased her passion and love for music; this eventually took her to Nashville on a music scholarship. Although she initially performed in a country-pop duo with her sister, Leigh went solo. Since then, she’s sharpened her craft into her current style, authentic and rich with emotion. 2021 saw the release of her debut single “no words”; this was followed later that year with her debut EP “changes”. “favorite parts of me” comes as the sixth and final track of Leigh’s most recent EP “reminders of you”, which highlights a more inward-looking and contemplative sound. If you enjoyed “favorite parts of me”, then you should definitely check out the rest of this beautiful EP. And, while you’re at it, take a look at Leigh’s immaculate discography to get the full experience of her excellent songwriting. Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW SAVANNA LEIGH: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube