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- Review: "Something" - Libby Whitehouse
As someone who is about to enter her mid-twenties later this year, Libby Whitehouse’s newest single “Something” is a song I can deeply relate to. The track talks about the constant pressure of feeling like we’re supposed to have everything figured out in our twenties. The lyrics, “We’re all trying to make it // (Fake it till we’re famous burning all the pages) // Raise em high to the restless nights ‘cause we know one day we’ll be missing right now,” really sum up what it feels like to be navigating life as a twenty-something. We often spend many of these years trying to plan and figure out the trajectory of our lives, but sometimes it’s just important to live in the moment because all we really have is now. Speaking about her new song, Whitehouse says, “Being a girl in your early twenties feels like the best and worst thing ever, but we’re all trying our best and without realizing it, we all go through the same things. This song is to let you know that it’s ok to feel 100 things at once when trying to be ‘something’.” Overall, I think Whitehouse’s clever and honest lyricism have done the job once again, because “Something” is a song that everyone in their twenties needs to hear. “Something” is a fun, summer pop song with lyrics that I’m sure everyone at one point in their lives could relate to. The song starts off with electric guitar strums and Whitehouse’s unmistakable voice, prepping listeners for the emotional, up and down roller coaster that is one’s twenties. Just as the first chorus kicks in, a drum beat drops, adding a slight touch of angst that matches the feelings of frustration that Whitehouse belts out. It’s the kind of song that you sing at the top of your lungs after a rough day. Whitehouse described it best when she said, “Make sure you scream it with your friends, it helps!” Libby Whitehouse is an English pop singer-songwriter whose star is quickly on the rise. Channeling the spirit of pop giants like Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, and Elton John, Whitehouse shows a deep dedication to her musical craft while also embracing the fun eccentricities of various styles and costumes. Her songs have received significant airplay on BBC Radio 1 and amassed a combined 1 million streams on digital streaming platforms. Whitehouse’s distinct voice and infectious, witty lyricism have made her a standout amongst the new influx of pop girlies bursting onto the music scene. Check out her latest single “Something,” available now on all music streaming platforms. Written By Giselle Morales FOLLOW LIBBY WHITEHOUSE Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Strangers" - Harper Allen
Harper Allen is here with her third single of 2024, “Strangers”! In a vulnerable, acoustic pop-track, Harper details the complex feelings surrounding a past relationship. She started this song back in 2018 and revisited it 4 months ago to finish it. Harper sings about the progression of a catastrophic past relationship: the first verse is set before the breakup happened, the chorus in the weeks following, and the second half takes place 4 years later. Harper is so lost after the breakup, wondering “how [she’s] supposed to let go/when everywhere [she’s] been/is a place where the love was?” She knows the relationship was destined to fail from the start, but she still wants to go back to it. She’s distraught about how her ex believes they’re friends “and it just makes it worse.” Now Harper takes us to the weeks following the breakup and the struggles she faced. In her pain, she had lost weight, and “all [she wants] to be is hungry” for the first time in her life. Now Harper lays in the memories on the bed she used to share, but “[she’s} unable to sleep anymore.” Her ex said that Harper was their favorite artist and now she thinks of them every time she’s on stage, and she’s ashamed that her ex took yet another thing away from her. In the last moments of the song, Harper leaves us with these haunting lyrics: “you say that someday I’ll be glad that it hurt/but everyone else except you is a stranger.” “Strangers” is best described as a vulnerable, acoustic-pop ballad. The track is very stripped back, consisting of acoustic guitars, Harper’s beautiful vocals, and some delicate backing vocals and harmonies. When I first listened to the song, I immediately imagined Harper singing this to me (or any of her listeners) in her living room with just her guitar, performing her heart out. Harper starts out with this spoken introduction that gives off this voice memo vibe that adds to the connection she has with the listener. She has a beautiful voice and a strong range. She doesn’t shy away with her head voice, which adds to this intimate vibe Harper is going for. Harper said on her Instagram that this song was a labor of love, but it’s clear to see that all the work she put in paid off. Jillian Harper Allen, professionally known as Harper Allen, is a singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles, California. Although she didn’t release a solo single until 2023, Harper first broke out into the music industry at 19, with a co-writing credit on an iTunes number 1 track. Despite this massive accomplishment, she fell into a deep depression, escaping to San Francisco, facing trouble with some dangerous vices. Once she recovered, she rediscovered her love for music again, and although she faced some FOMO, she’s grateful for her later start in music. Over the years, she has racked up many songwriting credits, which total to over 30 million streams. However, she debuted her own music career with “ We’re Listening to TS ”. Her most popular track, “ YOU (YOUR MOM) ”, has amassed over 250k streams. Her sound, reminiscent of artists such as beabadoobee , Gracie Abrams , and Lizzy McAlpin e. Although “your mom’s favorite songwriter” hasn’t hinted about what’s coming next, be sure to be on the lookout and “listen to the lyrics”. Written By Lauren DiGiovanni FOLLOW HARPER ALLEN: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | Linktree
- Review: “ROMCOM” - Laura Rizzotto
If there’s anything you should know about me, it’s that I absolutely love romantic comedies. Classics like 13 Going On 13, How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days, and 10 Things I Hate About You are some of my absolute favorites. So, when I found out I was assigned a song that referenced almost all of the classics, I knew I was going to love it. And I was right! “ROMCOM” is the latest single by singer and songwriter Laura Rizzotto, and it is such a fun listen. The song blends classic rom-com tropes with the feeling of falling for someone. The lyrics were super fun, I got to essentially try to guess which romcom she was referring to in each lyric. I wouldn’t be surprised if she managed to combine at least 20 of them! This song was super cute, and I think the beat and instrumentals worked great with the lyrics! “ROMCOM” was produced with the help of only women, which I love! This includes Grammy winners like Ali Stone, Jett Galindo, and Maria Elisa Ayerbe. When I first listened to this song, part of the beat reminded me of “Saturn” by SZA. But then it exploded into its own thing that sounds so unique and amazing when paired with the incredible lyrics Rizzotto wrote. I also like how she included parts at the beginning and the end, where it’s just her speaking. I think it breaks up the lyrics in a great way, and made for an even balance of lyric and spoken word. I really loved it. Laura Rizzotto is an LA-based singer and songwriter. She is also Latvian and Brazilian, and you might recognize her from her run in Eurovision 2018, when she represented Latvia with her song “Funny Girl”. Risotto gets nearly 5,000 monthly streams on Spotify, and “Funny Girl” has around 2,000,000! You may recognize her for some of her other popular hits, like “The High”, “Symptoms”, and “Papaya”. She released her debut album, Reason to Stay in 2014, and has been taking off ever since! She has even shared the stage with artists like Demi Lovato, Colbie Caillat, and more! I loved every minute of this song, and the serotonin it filled me with. I thing I need to go rewatch some of these classics now. Go stream “ROMCOM” everywhere, today! Written By Isabel Mays FOLLOW LAURA RIZZOTTO: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Damage" - Jorja B
Artist Jorja B comes full force with her synth-pop, club-banger “Damage.” The song brims with subtle anger and negative emotions stemming from overthinking and self-questioning within a damaged and toxic relationship. The song serves as a personal letter to the manipulator in the toxic relationship, as Jorja dissects every negative aspect of the doomed connection. Exasperated and continuously confused, Jorja can see the relationship is at its end, as too many times it's been played in a loop, the same problems reoccur. From the beginning we see the dysfunction of the relationship, Jorja writing: “I used to care about your feelings but you disregarded mine.” Jorja calls out her partner for being a gaslighting manipulator, a hypocrite in denial. In return, she has become, as the main chorus line rings out, a “messed-up emotional wreckage.” The relationship she describes is a tiresome cycle of conflicting emotions, with her toxic partner constantly "crawling back" and begging for forgiveness. Click here to listen to "song"! A moody synth-driven pop song, Jorja places her track within a club scene, as the bass and guitar reverberate and boom behind our ears. The sound complements the lyrics of heartache and emotional turmoil that is caused by the tumltuous connection. Feelings one might have and find an escape from in the nearest club, in a cup of alcohol under dizzying, dazzling lights, and pumping deafening music to drown out the unceasing thoughts. The song culminates in the chorus, like the rushing of emotions as it captures the quickening highs and lows of the rollercoaster relationship. A rushing blend of pop and EDM, the single is an anthem for all those disoriented by the uncertainties of a relationship. It also presents itself as a vulnerable voicing of what it feels like to be on the other end of such a mangled relationship, with someone who can't see their manipulative actions. Jorja’s voice glides smoothly over each key and deepened beat, perfectly complementing the telling lyrics. Hailed as the newest “Pop Rock Princess,” over the course of two years, Jorja has released an impressive collection of headbangers and danceable hits filled with the same lyricism brought to us by “Damage.” Her 2023 single, “If I had the chance,” received over 22,000 streams on Spotify as Jorja continues to entice audiences with synth-driven blends alongside authentic lyricism. Unique blends and experimental sounds can be seen mixed within her singles “Tried To” and “I Still Fucking Miss You,” the latter a fusion of fantasy pop-dream. Jorja's influences include artists like LØLØ, Holly Humberstone, and Renforshort. Alongside her unique sound, Jorja centers her music on themes of heartbreak and unrequited love. To keep adding to her solid collection of bangers, Jorja B promises to release a new song every month this year. Explore Jorja B’s collection below! Written By Mia Chavez FOLLOW JORJA B: Instagram | Spotify | SoundCloud | YouTube
- Album Review: "biting my tongue" - kenzie
Pop Singer kenzie , also known by her full name MacKenzie Ziegler , has released her highly anticipated album, "biting my tongue", her first album release in six years. TRACKLIST biting my tongue bad 4 u not around anatomy the me i was word vomit 6 feet under close to you midnight murderer paper face to face casualty kenzie grew up outside of Pittsburgh in Murrysville, Pennsylvania and is best known for her appearance on the LifeTime reality TV show, Dance Moms in which she starred in with her older sister, Maddie Ziegler . Although kenzie was and still is an incredible dancer, singing has always been her true passion. The now 20-year-old California based artist used to use the stage name Mack Z , and released an album in 2014 with the same name which ended up at the number one spot on the iTunes pop charts. Since then, she's been continuously releasing music and building the career she's always wanted, going on to release her first album as kenzie titled "Phases" in 2018, a viral hit with YouTuber and Singer Johnny Orlando titled "What If (I Told You I Liked You)" within the same year, a collaboration track titled "Exhale" with Sia in 2020 and tons more. Now, 6 years after the release of "Phases" and a project that has been in the works for over 2 years now, we finally have another album from kenzie! Let's dive into "biting my tongue", a project that kenzie said "speaks up for that little girl who was too afraid to speak her mind. and i hope that it can help all of you speak yours." biting my tongue We open up the album with the title track, "biting my tongue". It's a dark, eerie song exactly about what it's called. You hold back saying what you really feel just to make everyone else feel better or to like you, but really all you're doing is hurting yourself. You're not benefiting by not being your authentic self, it's almost better to just say what you want to say and get these toxic people out of your life. Who care's if they like you or not? kenzie says she's tired and fed up, and she is ready to move on. bad 4 u "bad 4 u" was released as the seventh single and is a dark-pop bop, so get ready for it to get stuck in your head. Filled with a haunting electro soundscape and screeching strings, "bad 4 u" is about knowing when something, or someone, is not good for you but you decide to go along with it anyway. It's self-destructive behavior, when someone entices your curiosity so much that you're willing to go through the painful aftermath just to know what the rush feels like to be with them. kenzie sings, "it's a dumb thing to do but all the best things are bad for you". not around "not around" is an electro-pop hit about when someone leaves you for a carbon-copy of yourself. It's confusing, and it doesn't make sense - and sometimes you start to wonder if the person they left you for is doing it on purpose. At the end of the day though, you realize that you're better off without them in your life. This is a "dance it off" kind of song, where the situation is really messed up but you've got to do your best to not let it bother you anymore and to look at the bright side of things. anatomy "anatomy" was the second single to be released last year in anticipation for this album, and it quickly became of of kenzie's biggest songs to date. This song is accompanied by a music video where kenzie brings back her dancing talents, which are choreographed by her older sister Maddie who still professionally dances. "anatomy" is a deeply emotional piano song about growing up without a father, and the impact that it has had on kenzie. She's not holding back on how her father's toxicity and absence has effected her and her family. It's a song that unfortunately, many little girls can relate to out there. It's beautifully tragic, so make sure to grab your tissues before pressing play. the me i was "the me i was" is the eighth and final single which was released along with the album, accompanied by a music video. There are a lot of very personal songs on this song, but this one hits a little bit different. kenzie sings about wishing she could be the girl she was before she had gone through trauma and heartbreak, the girl that was sweeter and trusted easier. The way she sings is so deeply emotional, and you have an instrumental, electronic production breakdown that takes the emotion to a whole new height. This is a song that many people can relate to as well. Once you experience life a little bit and realize that people aren't all good, it changes you, and not for the better. This song feels like mourning the loss of yourself, a part of you that you'll never get back. word vomit Acting as the fourth single before the release of this album, we have "word vomit". The lyrics don't actually contain the words, "word vomit" however, the lyrics literally are word vomit. They are just an endless stream of conscious, kenzie letting every thought in her head out onto the floor. It's a very personal, painful song about heartbreak; when you thought you knew someone and they turned out to be extremely toxic; and now you're just left all alone with your mind and intense feelings. This song puts a spotlight on a haunting guitar progression and drums that continue to build as the song goes on. 6 feet under Although it didn't come with a video, kenzie released "6 feet under" as the sixth single in anticipation for this album, just 2 months before it's release. This song is about being in a relationship with someone who is insecure and controlling; they feel like if you have a life outside of being in a relationship with them, then you don't love them or they're losing you. kenzie sings of how there's enough room for her to be herself and for her to love them, but as long as they keep pushing to change her, the more it feels like the end. This song is filled with acoustic guitar and a catchy, early 2000's type of beat. close to you "close to you" is the fifth single and is a beautiful love song and a duet with fellow pop singer, ASTN . This song is perfect for anyone who has found somebody who they've deeply fallen in love with, who makes everything feel right in the world. This song will definitely remind you of them; who knows, may it can become your couple song or the song you'll end up slow-dancing to at your wedding. It's slow but powerful, mixed with a bit of soul and simplicity to really give the vocals and heartfelt lyrics a chance to shine. midnight murderer "midnight murderer" is a fun song about those days you'd stay out and up all night with your friends; back when you could sleep all day the next day and time was never an issue. You had all the energy in the world and having fun with your friends gave you the sense of euphoria and adrenaline you needed. paper "paper" was the first song to be released over a year ago in anticipation for kenzie to release a new album. Although it was highly promoted, it continues to be one of the more underrated songs even though in my opinion, it's one of her best. It's got a simple, RnB influenced beat with guitar with gentle, classic, heartbroken vocals. "paper" is about losing a partner who left you to be with someone who is more "picture perfect" . They cared more about looks rather than what's good for them. It really hurts a person's self-esteem when something like this happens, because it makes you feel like you're not physically good enough even though you know personality wise, you were a perfect match. kenzie sings, "she looks good on paper, but I look good on you." face to face Released as a single just six months ago, "face to face" is the third single from this album. It takes a retro approach, with a fast-paced electronic beat, ethereal synths and layers of gorgeous vocal harmonies that transport you back to the 80's. The fact the the music is a bit nostalgic holds more meaning that it may seem once you realize what the song is truly about. "face to face" is about the frustration of having to play out the majority of your relationships over technology, and not in person. When you have a fight with someone, they have time to plan out what they want to say in text or when they call you instead of having a genuine face-to-face conversation. Combined with the music video, it's also about just missing that real human connection with people in this day of social media. casualty Closing out the album, we have the final track, "casualty". It's the come down, as it's more of a folk-influenced style with acoustic guitar and strings. "casualty" is about knowing when a relationship is hanging by a thread, but refusing to let it go. At any given second, things could end and they could end very badly, but both of you are too scared to lose each other; so instead you just hold on. I think "biting my tongue" is the best, most personal work we've gotten to hear from kenzie thus far. I feel like we're finally getting to hear who she is as an artist and not just as a vocalist. We're getting to hear her story and deep emotions. Not only that, but her vocal growth as a singer is absolutely impeccable. Her voice is so beautiful and she sings in a way that engages you as a listener; like you want to hear what she has to say. The touching and relatable songs on this album, mixed with the high quality production and kenzie's voice equal out to pop perfection. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Review: "DEVIL ON MY SHOULDER" - George Redwood
On the first listen, my direct observation was that the music pairs with Redwood’s voice nicely., it's almost as if the music and his voice were made to be together. I would categorize it as dance music that is easy to sing along and relate to. Redwood sings "I fight with the devil on my shoulder". Oh man, don’t we all. What I find most interesting about this musical endeavor is that Redwood doesn’t mention an angel on his shoulder. Perhaps it’s to be found in the context clues since Redwood mentions “fighting” with the devil on his shoulder, thereby not listening to it and going against what it wants. Ah, one of the many trials and tribulations of this thing we call life, deciding whether or not to listen to the devils on our shoulders. In a description of the song, it is explained that “"Devil On My Shoulder" by George Redwood is a heartfelt exploration of the inner battles we face with mental health. Set against a backdrop of soulful melodies and raw, honest lyrics, this track delves into the struggle of dealing with anxiety and the feeling of loneliness. Redwood's emotive vocals and poignant storytelling capture the essence of fighting personal demons, making it a powerful anthem for anyone who has experienced similar struggles.” This description helps to answer the question of why an angel on the shoulder isn’t mentioned, it’s not necessarily a do I choose this or that instance, it’s a feeling or emotion I’m fighting against. Redwood is describing a fight to hold onto the angelic side of life – joy, success, triumph. However, experiencing the bad makes the good all the better. This song is most certainly an anthem with its bop-infused melody. It’s a lighthearted way of embracing all that life has to offer, even the not-so-fun aspects such as anxiety and loneliness. “And I don’t know what I’m feeling”. I think that line is important to discuss. A feeling that is, possibly, worse than anxiety or loneliness is when you simply can’t put a name to what you’re feeling, when words fail and your soul is in turmoil. And, furthermore, if people are to inquire about what is wrong, you don’t have anything to tell them because you can’t even pinpoint what troubles you. But, with this song, you can be confused, sad, lonely, anxious, and still dancing. I actually seriously love this spin on things, it helps you not take life too seriously and to not sulk in your feelings. This too shall pass, so to speak. “Put one foot in front of the other just to see what I discover”. So after you pull yourself out of this undetermined feeling, now you can carry on with life and see what else it has to offer. It could be better. It could be worse. However, we must march on. Ah, what a treat life is. George Redwood is an English singer/songwriter from Sussex, United Kingdom. Redwood’s music is described as “dance pop”, “DEVIL ON MY SHOULDER” is definite evidence of that. George’s upcoming album ‘Better Than Nothing’ is expected this October and will feature “DEVIL ON MY SHOULDER”. Redwood’s social media presence currently boasts 2500 followers on Facebook, 1,211 followers on Instagram, 15,892 monthly listeners on Spotify, 835 followers on Tik Tok, and 567 subscribers on YouTube. I’ll be dancing along to Redwood’s music while we wait for the surefire bop of an album “Better Than Nothing” to release. If you want to join me, follow Redwood on all of his socials below and don’t forget to dance!! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW GEORGE REDWOOD: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Battery Park" - Alice June
In her latest release, "Battery Park," Alice June crafts an evocative and immersive sonic landscape that delves deep into the emotional complexities of love, particularly the kind that drains one's spirit. Inspired by the serene yet bustling atmosphere of New York City’s iconic Battery Park, Alice’s lyrics are both poetic and poignant, offering a narrative that captures the bittersweet nature of insufficient love—love that takes more than it gives. The song's introspective tone invites listeners to reflect on past relationships that have left an indelible mark, teaching valuable lessons about self-protection and resilience. Through her masterful storytelling, Alice seamlessly weaves together themes of vulnerability and strength, creating a piece that resonates on a deeply personal level. Click here to listen to "Battery Park"! Musically, "Battery Park" is a lush tapestry of influences, drawing from the ethereal qualities of Kate Bush and the soaring crescendos of Florence and the Machine. The track's production is a global endeavor, recorded between the tranquil landscapes of Italy and the vibrant streets of London, and finalized in New York by renowned producer Simon Dobson. The rich instrumentation includes a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, bass, drums, synthesizers, and the delicate sounds of a xylophone, all harmoniously blended to create a compelling auditory experience. Real-life recordings of local birds chirping add a whimsical touch, grounding the song's ethereal elements in nature. Alice's clear and emotive vocals navigate through the song's dynamic arrangement with ease, capturing the essence of the lyrics and enhancing the overall emotional impact. The result is a multi-layered pop anthem that feels both timeless and contemporary, inviting listeners to dive into its intricate soundscape. Alice June's artistic journey is as rich and varied as her music. Hailing from Milan, she began her creative path in local theater productions, soon making a significant impact on the city's music scene. Growing up in the outskirts of Italy, Alice's early experiences instilled in her a deep appreciation for narrative richness, which now permeates her work. Traveling the world has further broadened her horizons, infusing her alt/indie pop sound with a unique blend of cinematic storytelling and heartfelt emotion. Drawing inspiration from artists like Florence + the Machine, Daughter, and London Grammar, Alice crafts music that transcends geographical boundaries and speaks to a global audience. Her dedication to her craft is evident in the meticulous production process of her tracks, involving international musicians and Grammy-winning sound engineers. With "Battery Pack," Alice June solidifies her place as a poignant and influential voice in the indie pop genre, promising a future filled with evocative and thought-provoking compositions. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW ALICE: Instagram | Spotify | Website | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "Cool Girl" - Starling
Returning after a brief hiatus over the course of the pandemic, Starling is back and better than ever with her new single, "Cool Girl." The empowering female anthem reflects on her personal journey as a young woman, exploring the trials of navigating relationships and travelling down a path of self-discovery. Elaborating on the inspiration behind the song, Starling states, "Cool Girl marks the new sound of pop meets therapy, sad meets hopeful, light meets dark - I want my music to encompass all parts of me and therefore, free all parts of you, the listener. We are all so multi-faceted and full of so much hope as well as fear, sadness, grief - it is safe to be it all.. at least, that is what I would like to share through my song." Readying herself for the release of her long-anticipated EP, Starling exudes confidence over a symphony of effervescent synths, energetic beats, and lush harmonies in "Cool Girl." The track is upbeat and lively, expressing a carefree attitude that comes with learning to be your authentic and honest self. "Cool Girl" starts off with an ethereal vibe as Starling's vocals float over the synth-laden background, later evolving into an infectious electropop soundscape that's impossible not to dance along to. Perfect for any synthpop/electropop enthusiast, Starling gives a captivating performance reminiscent of pop icons like Ellie Goulding , Tove Lo , and Alessia Cara . Discovered by London's Massive Attack, Starling has been a pop artist steadily on the rise. She has found herself catching the attention of prestigious magazines and tastemakers, including the likes of Wonderland, The Guardian, CLASH, and The Line of Best Fit. Her music is described as sophisticated pop with an edge and has been featured on over 18 Spotify "New Music Friday" playlists. Priding herself on incorporating a message of courage and resilience in her songs, Starling's upcoming EP showcases the artist's powerful and uplifting presence through a collection of fierce and vibrant pop songs. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW STARLING: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "everything but you" - viisi
viisi's new single, "everything but you" is everything a break-up song should be, complete with just the right amount of venom. It's reminiscent and thoughtful, looking back on past memories. If only that awful ex wasn't there, right? The track describes the struggles of looking back at old pictures and posts and trying to find the good when all you see is someone who hurt you. How do you process memories that were amazing in the moment when someone so toxic was there for all of it? How do you combat that flurry of emotions? It almost feels like they ruined it all, and getting over that is a serious challenge. It's a feeling so many of us know all too well and viisi said it best. "I miss everything but you." Musically, this track is everything I love about a pop tune. It starts acoustic and somber, with just viisi's vocals over a single guitar, seeming like a lament. But then the beat kicks in. Oh, this is spiteful. This is venomous. This is something people can't help but pay attention to and oh my goodness is it catchy. This is a song you scream at the top of your lungs dancing around while you clean your room, getting over those people that did you wrong. The B Major key choice makes this even more interesting. It's a key that evokes hopefulness and aspiration. The song has heavy lyrics, but underneath, it's an anthem of hope. You can and will move on from that part of your life, whether they've tainted your memories or not. Canadian-born artist, viisi, takes his namesake from the Finnish word for five. His story as to why is even more intriguing. Five years after creating his first musical rough cut as a high school freshman, viisi would be touring Europe. It took only five years to make it big, and he owns that time well spent, adopting the iconic name in 2020. Beyond that, viisi takes a lot of his inspiration from 90s rap artists, but most importantly, Eminem. Shady's clear cut unapologetic nature was just the thing to set the spark for viisi's music, inspiring him to create songs with raw, emotional, unbridled storytelling. With a sincere dedication to his craft and the honesty of an open book, viisi is not at all afraid to spill his heart into unforgettable lyrics. "everything but you" is a fantastic song that resonates deeply with me and countless others and it is most certainly worth a listen. You can check it out on Spotify now! Written By Shelbi Baker FOLLOW viisi: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Twitter | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "Where Is The Water" - Anna Curreen
Anna Curreen’s latest single “Where Is The Water” is an introspective melancholy deep dive into the desire to feel close to others, but the inevitable fall back into isolation when faced with needing to put equal effort into communication. You peer at your phone as you realize something seems off. A sudden feeling of loneliness permeates throughout your being as your recent messages face you. How has it already been weeks without either you or your friends communicating? The realization that the broken communication cycle has started again depletes your remaining energy. You crave the peace and comfort your friends brought you, but being the first to reach out hardly registers in your state of mind. Your desire for familiar connections is snuffed out by the harrowing fact that it needs to start with you. There’s never effort on your friends’ parts either, so starting any conversations seems pointless. Although you would never admit it outloud, you wish the communication efforts would start with them. But with every barrier you’ve put up and your life racing out of control, there’s little hope you would have the energy to sustain it. The thought of sending even one message is as daunting as it is exhausting. Click here to listen to "Where is the Water"! “Where Is The Water” is a dark alt pop single that utilizes somber and low instrumentation and vocalization to effectively display its narrative. A lone piano tapping away solo immediately sets the tone. No vocals or accompanying instruments play as we are thrown into a melancholy mood. Once the vocals and lower chords are sprinkled in, harmonious upper notes add an additional layer to the piano base. Occasional dips into minor chord progression help further establish the mood. The chorus introduces more instrumentation than the piano and small buildups. Guitar and percussive instruments are seamlessly blended so they naturally balance off each other. As each instrument slowly builds and every harmonious note sings lowly, the melancholy narrative seems perfectly reflected. A somber story is perfectly tailored to the melody it rings against. Anna Curreen is an American singer-songwriter currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Curreen has made a name for herself in the music industry for over a decade. She has had solo projects as well as collaborations with other musicians throughout her career. She has accumulated many feature articles about her music and performances from her hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. She has also garnered a decent social media following that has maintained despite her taking an almost two year hiatus from releasing music. “Where Is The Water” marks her dive back into the industry and is the first single off of her EP which will release this fall. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “Where Is The Water?” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW ANNA CURREEN: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Loud" - Holly Blair
Bury yourself in a whirlwind of ear-striking musicality with “Loud” from artist Holly Blair. “Loud” is a testament to the people who are caught in a vortex of feeling overwhelmed and looking for solace. Blair opens “Loud” with her soothing voice alongside cushy synths, creating a warm and welcoming introduction to a tune with deep undertones. As the song unfolds, the pattern of the synths and waves to Blair’s voice appear to mimic a mind that is overwhelmed and experiencing a multitude of sensations all at once. Upon my first listen, lyrics with a small detail regarding “staring at the pavement” hit me like a ton of bricks. Blair’s writing style has a way of drawing you in with its flow and making you stay with its intricacies. Although “Loud” has a runtime of just around two minutes, its impact is substantial and within those 120 seconds you are immersed in a world of safety and resonation. As someone who struggles with often feeling overwhelmed, this song spoke to me in several ways. From my first listen, the opening sound somehow felt similar. I saw myself in “Loud” and that was accompanied by both feelings of joy and productive discomfort. While the track brought up difficult feelings, the mimicked patterns within “Loud” allowed me to explore my personal experiences and tune in with myself to provide a comforting experience. Rather than opening old wounds and pouring salt into them, I felt as though I had a new friend holding my hand through battles I’ve fought time & time again. Blair’s ability to connect with audiences through subjects such as struggles with mental health, as well as to produce music that blends genres across the board, is unmatched in comparison to a great number of artists. On top of this, Blair’s openness regarding her sexuality and identity provides a safe space in her music and for others that is incredibly important and should be shared more through the entertainment industry. I applaud her not only for the level of musicality she brings to the table but additionally for being an authentic light in all she does. Holly Blair is an LA-based songwriter, filmmaker, and multi-instrumentalist. She is a queer, gender-fluid artist who creates work that bridges gaps between genres as well as creative, defining worlds. Since coming out at age 22, Blair has embedded her identity throughout her music and continues to push past the confinements of society. She has stated that her fluid identity has helped allow her to play with genres and make music that is authentic to her. She has the ability to one day create a song that falls under the branch of country, then the next day produce an electronic track. Her 2023 EP, One Step Away Is Too Far , featured collaborations from producers Tim Carr – a.k.a Perfume Genius – and David Burris, who has worked with producer Tommy English and artist Willow Smith. “Make It On My Own”, a single off her 2023 EP, opened up a world for Blair – she became the co-director for the “Make It On My Own” music video and has since then only pushed her creative abilities forward. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW HOLLY BLAIR: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Grown Ups" - Naomi Jane
Naomi Jane is back with her latest bittersweet single, “Grown Ups.” Marking the final single in her “Letterman Trilogy,” Jane’s “Grown Ups” captures the struggles of young love while transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. Resolute and poignant, the song holds a tone of finalization, adding to its solemn beauty. Janes's lyrics are introspective and her maturity echoes throughout the track as we watch her let go of love and, from a distance, acknowledge the freeness of youth and naivety. She writes, “Let’s leave love to the grown-ups / We’re just not ready for that.” She decisively embraces adulthood, though not without taking one painful glance back at what once was. “Grown Ups” is a bittersweet ending, an ode to the passage of time and transition to adulthood. It is momentary and intensely raw, capturing a sense of solitude that can sometimes accompany us as we grow and change throughout life. Lyrically powerful and heartfelt, Jane's serene voice carries the song, as instrumentally the song is perfectly simple. The track takes a step away from other pop-infused rhythms or heavy studio-done beats that sometimes feature in the pop category. Instead, Jane opts for a light country and folk sound to enrich her song. Moving lyrics coincide with a humble and down-to-earth melody, a signature of Jane's we've seen before in her music. With just a few simple strums of guitar alongside harmonizing pieces of Jane's voice, we are left with a timeless composition. Placed within a story of love and loss, Jane's ability to almost singlehandedly uphold a song with her voice alone, without the aid of multiple instruments, is an art in itself. As Jane soothingly caresses each note and feathers over each melancholic line, almost tangible emotion can be touched. Always pleasantly authentic, Jane constructs a narrative that is both tinged with sadness and a resolved maturity that listeners can relate to at any age. In the conclusion to her "Letterman Trilogy," Jane follows her previous two singles, "Pretty Boys" and "Little Miss," by finishing off her narrative of a journey through youthful love and growing up. In “Pretty Boys,” Jane points out the youthful fragility of love and the disillusionment that can sometimes become blinding. Her second single in the trilogy, “Little Miss,” illustrates themes of self-acceptance, self-worth, and empowering oneself. When creating “Grown Ups,” Jane was influenced by artist Zack Bryan , which can be seen in the country and folk waves of the song. The song marks the end of the story and the emotional evolution that Jane illustrates in her character. “Grown Ups” symbolically takes images of the red solo cup and teenage scenes to be used as a reflection of the past. Jane looks at her experiences from the outside and acknowledges them as moments of growth and maturity. With her latest singles receiving over 575k streams and amassing 26k followers on TikTok, Jane continues to both enchant and captivate listener's hearts with her writing and vocals. Not the end for Jane, she promises her eager audience another EP that is set to debut in September 2024. Written By Mia Chavez FOLLOW NAOMI JANE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube












