“Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl” by Bri Scully explores the complex emotions behind being in denial with your uncommitted relationship. The desire for something beyond a situationship begins with subtle acts of desperation. Leaving your jewelry behind so they have an excuse to call you for something more than your many nights together. When those don’t evolve into something more, you find it easier to convince yourself that this is all fine. Even while you want to be more than just their girl, this is all perfectly fine. But as each day passes, you grow more miserable than before. You make many changes and one-sided compromises as they remain uncommitted. They encompass your thoughts, but they simply leave out the back door as the sun rises. There is more you want with them, but for now and likely forever, you will have to live without any commitment. Click here to listen to "Don't Wanna Be Your Girl"! Bri Scully’s latest single “Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl” is a dancepop and synthpop anthem that has differing instrumental variations in each verse and chorus. We are first introduced to 80s reminiscent dream electronic notes that remain as an essential background to the impressive vocals. When the pre-chorus and chorus begin, more instruments are integrated. We hear percussion and stringed elements that abruptly change this formerly atmospheric single to upbeat and lively. The first verse following the chorus keeps some aspects of it, but it quickly returns to more atmospheric, just with a few more prominent beats and background instruments. The most notable yet interesting alteration is the chorus immediately preceding the bridge. This delightful section keeps the guitar and bass, utilizing the previous chorus vocals. It remains this way for one run-through, and then the previous chorus elements return for the remaining repetitions. Bri Scully is an American singer-songwriter who is currently based in Los Angeles, California. She has always been naturally inclined to create and write her own music, poems, and stories. When she first ventured into LA, she met and began collaborating with producer and co-writer Brandon Lew. In 2023, she released singles that received thousands of views across multiple streaming platforms such as Spotify. She has also released an EP titled “MANIC” which has been met with similar success. Some of her greatest music inspirations are artists such as Holly Humberstone, Billie Eilish, and Phoebe Bridgers. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW BRI SCULLY: Instagram | Spotify

Forgiving and forgetting is so overrated, and Kissimjau’s “Voodoo Doll” captures that desire for revenge in this captivating single. It’s always a painful experience getting hurt in a relationship, and when the dust finally settles, you’re left with a whirlwind of emotions that is difficult to contain. Betrayal, heartbreak, and searing pain. “Voodoo Doll” wants you to know that those feelings are best let out in a most cathartic manner, to acknowledge your frustration, and embrace that deep desire to take revenge against whoever wronged you. Infused with a mix of darkly defiant and sensual tones, and Kissimjau’s stuttered vocals, this track is focused on one thing: letting it all out, but not until after getting that sweet, sweet revenge. Dark, sensual, and moody, “Voodoo Doll” is like revenge in musical form. From the droning synth to the underlying percussion and bass, the instrumentation of this track is almost as addicting as imagining getting back at everyone who’s ever wronged you. The song focuses specifically on being betrayed by a lover (and in turn getting your due justice), and I think the subtle sensual undertones of the track, combined with the numerous double entendres that fill the lyrics, really make “Voodoo Doll” such a fun listen for those of you who love to press your ear against a song and think about what each tonal change and lyric means. Even the first line of the song, “I want to make you scream / I want to make you feel it”, which is similarly featured in the chorus, conjures scenes of physicality, but whether those actions are for pleasure or something darker, that is dependent on how you listen to the song. The song also features a hypnotizing stutter in Kissimjau’s vocals, particularly during those aforementioned lines; it creates a disjointed feeling between the song and listener, almost implying, through that stutter, the double-meaning of the lyrics. “Voodoo Doll” is everything anyone could ever want out of a revenge track, from alluring instrumentals and vocals to complex lyrics, putting this song on loop is the only correct answer while you're making your own little voodoo doll of that once-special someone. Kissimjau is a Norwegian artist whose liquid vocals blend with her dark pop stylings to create revenge anthems and club-bangers that will make you lift yourself off the ground and scream along to her lyrics. She made her debut in 2022 with her single “Pretty When I Cry”, and made waves with her second single that same year, entitled “Blood Sugar”, which now has 689,000 streams on Spotify alone. Her singles have been on a variety of playlists, including Planet Rave, Oyster, Fresh Finds, Dance Rising, and many, many more. She was also recently part of an initiative by Spotify in the Nordics that saw Kissimjau as one of four Nordic artists that were presented by Spotify at the first ever Fresh Finds Nordics live event in Oslo. “Voodoo Doll” marks an important milestone for Kissimjau, as its release comes with her first full-length music video. If you enjoyed the track, definitely give the video a watch and the rest of her discography a listen! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW KISSIMJAU: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

"Death of a Pacifist" by Maddie Ettrich takes on the lesson that you can't let people walk all over you, even if it's someone you love. In a devastating and important realization, the song begins with the words "I wipe your tears with my wounds still bleeding". I was meaningfully struck with the way this dramatic image was so casually introduced, making putting the needs of a person above the speaker's own seem commonplace. Moving onto biblical absolution of the person who wronged her, that empathy for the speaker is drawn out. Immediately plunged into the selfless self-neglect, I was hoping for a change in the speaker's fate. This song delivered to that end, offering a satisfying expression of staying strong. Evolving into a person who prioritizes herself, the speaker says, "I'll haunt you like the ghost of your worst days". The lyrics don't speak out of anger, but acceptance that sometimes you have to change your ways to protect yourself. Mourning a kind and non-confrontational version of herself, the speaker finds the strength to stand up for her own needs and wellbeing. She stops being her ex's safety in order to become her own. Bones, burial, and hauntings in the lyrics bring a sense of rebirth through death, spreading the comforting message that becoming your own person can allow you to discover an entirely new version of yourself. Get lost in the relief of learning to prioritize yourself through this impeccably empowering track. A comforting gentle sound reflects the journey of change and resolution in this song. Maddie's angelic and light vocals carry wisdom in their tone, and the genuine purity in her singing pushes forward the belief that the speaker of this song is truly a good person. Strings, high, simple piano, and guitar support the delicate themes of the track with a somber and harmonious sound. With lyrics of sharp revelation and a sound as soothing as a lullaby, this song truly represents what happens when a kind soul is pushed to their breaking point. Even in the harshest of thoughts, the tune is captivatingly delicate. Layered vocals lift listeners into an ethereal goodbye to the speaker's former self. Fans of soft songs by Julien Baker or Maya Hawke will feel right at home with this blend of introspection and tranquil vindication. Maddie Ettrich is a Nashville-based indie pop-rock artist from Canada. She folds her artistic talents from various walks of creativity, as a singer, songwriter, designer, and guitarist, into her music. Iconic throaty vocals and enthralling lyrics make up Maddie's exciting style. Last year, she released her debut EP "I Think the Party's Over", and she has several singles in her discography that showcase her sound. She performs at various venues and bars in Tennessee like The Mockingbird Theater , and has an upcoming show at The Basement . Check out the links below to keep up with her music! Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW MADDIE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

FOMO is an acronym that translates to the fear of missing out. Whether we like to admit it or not, we’ve all had FOMO at some point in our lives. Carson Ferris’ latest single “FOMO,” is a song that talks about choices and prioritizing what matters most in life, even if it means missing out on other opportunities. Ferris drew inspiration from his own life and the sacrifices he made as he chased his musical dreams. While most teenagers typically spend a lot of time playing video games or hanging out with friends, Ferris chose to dedicate his time towards his musical craft – sacrificing his ability to enjoy normal teenager stuff. Explaining the meaning behind the song, Ferris said, “This can apply to a lot of things, but what I specifically wrote ‘FOMO’ about is choosing to do music instead of being a normal teenager. We all come across hard decisions in our lives that will lead to missing out on something.” The song as a whole showcases a wisdom beyond Ferris’ years, but the lyrics, “It’s hard to decide what matters most in life // You always look back wondering if what you did was right,” particularly strike a powerful chord. “FOMO” has all the ingredients of a hit song. It has a catchy guitar intro, an upbeat tempo, relatable lyrics, and is sung by an artist whose voice draws you in from the first note. Ferris’ gentle yet powerful tone is inviting and effortlessly flows throughout the song. The opening guitar intro immediately caught my attention. It reminded me a bit of the opening guitar intro in “Beautiful Soul” by Jesse McCartney , which was one of my favorite songs growing up. Produced by Ferris’s longtime mentor and collaborator MYKYL, “FOMO” incorporates catchy pop beats, while infusing subtle hints of electronic and rock sounds that make for a must-listen-to track. If you’re not listening to Carson Ferris, you should have major FOMO. The Utah native may be fairly new to the industry, but his indie electro-pop rock sound has nabbed him over 12,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Ferris immersed himself in the Utah music scene at a young age and quickly became lauded for his musical talents. He has had the opportunity to sing the national anthem at a Utah Jazz basketball game and perform with Donny Osmond in one of his Las Vegas shows. In addition, the artist was also a finalist at the 2023 International Acoustic Awards in the Drive Alone Acoustic category. His debut single “Can’t Be Without You,” which was a collaboration with Hip-Hop/ R&B artist Trinidad Cardona, was released in 2021. Influenced by artists like Ed Sheeran , Benson Boone , and Knox , Ferris is an artist that is dedicated to inviting listeners into his life through lyrical expression and authenticity. His latest single “FOMO” is out now on all music streaming platforms. Written By Giselle Morales FOLLOW CARSON FERRIS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Photo Credits: Kristie Bradley Photography Independent Singer/Songwriter, Annah Marcelle just released her latest EP, "Aftermath" featuring five emotive tracks highlighting the stages of falling in love from the very start to what comes after it's over. TRACKLIST Mars If I Don't Call Him What I Remember But We Can Still Be Friends Aftermath Annah Marcelle is based in Richmond, Virginia and has been writing songs ever since she was 13 years old. To this date, she has written over 200 pieces of music. She originally never planned on sharing these with the world, until her family and friends encouraged her not to hide away her talents. In 2020, Annah officially released her first ever single, "Start Again". Over the past 4 years, Annah has been consistently releasing music. In 2022, her song "Love Is a Liar" broke though in the indie music world with over 20k+ streams on Spotify, which led to more fan favorite songs like "Ruins" and "Running In Circles". She's inspired by emotionally detailed songwriters like Taylor Swift , Conan Gray and Gracie Abrams . She started posting covers here and there on her YouTube channel as well, along with her original music. Annah then went on to release of her debut EP earlier this year, titled "Closure". In July of 2023, Annah took her first ever trip to Nashville, Tennessee where she recorded all the tracks for her second EP, "Aftermath" which we will be discussing here! Each track was recorded at Gnome Studios and produced by Kara Greskovic . This collection of songs captures the emotional highs and lows of relationships, from the initial stages of love to the lingering aftermath of heartbreak. Each track looks at a different aspect of connection—whether it's the isolating effect of toxic love, the internal battle to reach out to someone, or the difficulty in letting go of memories. These songs explore the lasting impact that love and loss leave on our lives, shaping who we are long after the relationships have ended. - Annah Marcelle Mars We start off the EP with "Mars", an ethereal mid-tempo song with a catchy, nostalgic pop beat and a stand-out guitar riff with a bright and twangy timbre. There's synths that add to the galactic essence of the song as well. Annah sings beautifully within this song; her vocals soar effortlessly with raw and pure emotion. "Mars" is about that type of relationship that takes you to another world; in the beginning it seems like a good thing, you're so infatuated that you don't even realize that you're losing yourself within them. There comes a point where you do snap out of it, and the toxicity of it all starts to become clear. You're not yourself anymore, and this whole life on Mars thing is starting not to feel good. Everything you were and everything you had feels so far away now, and you don't feel like you. Your sense of identity is lost, and the only way to find it again is to get back to Earth and into reality. If I Don't Call Him Next, we have "If I Don't Call Him", which is about the fear of missing out if you don't tell the person you're in love with about how you feel. However, you're too scared that they don't feel the same - so you spend a lot of time anxiously wondering if it's the right choice to say something or not. But then if you don't say something, you'll be forever asking yourself, "what if?". This song is giving Taylor Swift 's 1989 era vibes, with it's addicting beat and pulsing synths. Annah sings a fast-paced melody filled with lyrics of those nervous thoughts and longings, in a very unique but meticulously crafted rhythm that fits into the production like a perfect puzzle piece. What I Remember Have you ever been in a relationship with someone who hurt you deeply, but they left such an big impression on you that it's impossible for you to forget them? This is what "What I Remember" is about. Even if you want to forget about them, you can't. The scars they left are permanent and no matter how hard you try to erase them from your mind, they still find ways to haunt your consciousness. "What I Remember" takes more of a simplistic, slowcore approach within the production. The tone feels more retro; an 80's drum keeps the rhythm with half-step, dissonant flickering keys and layers of somber reverb heavy synths fill the air. The lyrics are very poetic and cathartic; my personal favorite moment is when Annah sings, "The flame burned out but I still have the embers". But We Can Still Be Friends "But We Can Still Be Friends" is a highly emotional pop ballad with a stomping beat, crashing cymbals and sorrowful synths. This song is about being in love with your best friend, but having to cope with the fact that they'll never love you back. You're in the friendzone, and unfortunately you feel like there isn't a way out. All you can do is try to move on, but it's kind of impossible when they're always around. You can't just force yourself to fall out of love with them; but all they want is to just be friends. Annah sings her heart out with full control and heavy emotion. This song has a heartbreaking bridge that builds both lyrically and instrumentally, creating this cinematic, highly passionate soundscape that tugs at your heart strings. Aftermath Lastly, we end the EP on the title track, "Aftermath". This song features gorgeous acoustic guitar and stunning, country inspired vocal harmonies. The melody is very cathartic, and is reminiscent of a nostalgic Fearless or Speak Now era Taylor Swift song. "Aftermath" is about reflecting on what happens when a relationship ends; how you wonder about what could've went differently, how and why it ended, and what life could've been like if maybe it didn't end. Not only that, but how the experience of each relationship and breakup leaves an impression, and shapes us into a different person; therefore, leading us to have cycles and issues within our future relationships as well. So many breakups are left unresolved, which leave you "stuck in the aftermath", and you'll always be left wondering about what could've been. Annah Marcelle is a beautiful songwriter with a stunning voice. The way she sings is like she's telling us a story; like she's speaking directly to her audience and that's something I really love about her songs. Her lyrics are poetic, but still remain relatable and easy to connect with which isn't an easy thing to master. Not only that, but her lyrics roll off the tongue so effortlessly. She's able to take as many words as possible and craft these complex rhythms and melodies that still feel natural and are radio worthy pop songs. I love how her instrumentals are super catchy, but not too complicated - that way you're able to focus on the story and not get distracted by the production, but can still enjoy the music itself that accompanies the emotion being sung about. I truly believe this is still only the beginning for Annah, and I can't wait to hear what she does next. If you enjoyed the tracks on the "Aftermath" EP, I highly suggest going back and listening to the rest of Annah's discography. You can find her music and all her socials below! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW ANNAH: Instagram | Website | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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