Devon Cole introduces us to a self-psychoanalyzing story of having a tendency to pursue toxic men over decent ones in “Good Guy”. The type of relationships you desire is plain to see to yourself and those close to you. Kind men who are interested in your company try desperately to make you feel comfortable, but you know that doesn’t appeal to you. You find yourself constantly doing mental gymnastics to justify preferring toxic men who are not genuinely interested in you. The chase you pursue to troubling boys who drive you crazy is intoxicatingly thrilling. But years of sideways glances from the people closest to you have started to weigh on you. The spicy journey of each relationship you love seems familiar to you. It seems depressingly likely that this preference seems almost Freudian in nature. You have felt abandoned before and keep feeding into your need to be wanted. Despite leaning towards a continuous cycle of toxicity, you wish that one day a good guy will be more than enough for you. Click here to listen to "Good Guy"! “Good Guy” is a commercial pop anthem that relies on energetic and uplifting moods to contrast against the melancholy theme. The single begins with a sweeping guitar instrumental with Cole humming bits of the melody. An upbeat bass line pricks away intertwined with this guitar. There are a few sudden tone and instrumentation changes, which is most prevalent in the pre-chorus lead up. The vocals suddenly hit higher notes as the guitar drops, slowly and gradually builds, and then becomes just as prevalent as the other elements. Each aspect of this single represents an upbeat, funky, and feel-good nature that directly contrasts the lyrics. It is always a unique and humorous experience when the melody and instrumentation of a song differs so greatly from its narrative themes. Devon Cole is a Canadian singer-songwriter currently shining her way through the music scene. She has had a respectable ascent into fame with some of her music receiving viral success after signing with Arista Records in 2022. Her first viral hit “W.I.T.C.H.” has gained millions of streams across multiple platforms. Her music has received critical acclaim from media platforms such as Billboard, Bustle, Earmilk, and Popdust. In 2023, the young singer received multiple accolades such as winning the Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Canada Artist of 2023 and being nominated for the Favorite Breakout Artist at the 2023 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Her social media presence has amassed her many dedicated fans and followers that continue to push her further into the mainstream. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “Good Guy” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW DEVON COLE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok

Growing up is no easy task. As we get older, we become more insecure and aware of the painful moments life can bring. “Reconstruction” is a new single by KARINA that dives deep into the internalized hurt we all try to hide every single day. She said herself that this song explores the constant internal fight we have to push our deepest insecurities and ugliest secrets down to a place where only we have to suffer them. It’s easy to think you’re alone as if you’re holding the weight of the world on your shoulders. KARINA wrote this song with the intention to remind listeners that it’s okay to break down because we all inevitably will. “Reconstruction” is about the weak and strong moments because both of those are important to who we are. “Reconstruction” was produced with intent. KARINA said “While the lyrics talk about the dark and abandoned corners of our hearts, the music and melodies are meant to be an anthem of strength. We made this sound really full and strong so the listener actually feels that they are not alone in this broken down place they find themselves in.” The momentum with the drums feels like the choice to keep talking steps forward no matter how lost we tend to feel. The guitar and synths bring such a hopeful energy. KARINA’s vocals encapsulate the emotion of the story so beautifully. This song was built with so much heart and I hope her listeners are inspired enough to build themselves up with that same heart. KARINA grew up watching Hannah Montana which ultimately led her to her passion of music. With a genre of indie-pop rock and a skill for turning her experiences into songs, her success is no surprise. She released her first single “Out of Air” in 2023 and has since then released three singles, her mini stripped project and her debut album. She brings dark themes into her writing relating to the struggles and naivety of growing up. KARINA’s goal as a songwriter is to remind her audience they may feel alone, but they aren’t. We may be sitting in the dark sometimes but if you reach out, you might grab ahold of another hand. KARINA’s music is truly a gift with the vulnerability she lays out for us to relate to. Check out her social medias linked below to stay on top of her future releases. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW KARINA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

"Where Flowers Grow" is a heartfelt gem in which ORKID shares her own experiences with loss and conveys them in a way that comforts the listener, blanketing them in the notion that no one must face their hardships alone. Having undergone the pain of losing her mother, ORKID provides her listeners company as they navigate their longing through a sweet melody they can play again and again. Just as the name suggests, one of the most impactful moments throughout the song is when ORKID and co-writer Lew refer to the place "where flowers can grow", signifying the place where our yearning is at its peak; it is a profound motif that paints a vivid picture of a beauty that blossoms even in the absence of presence. Through their personification of the special someone or something that we deeply long for, we are reminded that we've been gifted with the "flowers", the joy of memories to console us in the present and carry into the future. Shedding light on the mourning of the things we love and the blossoming of new growth, the two talented songwriters emphasize that there is comfort to be found in every "you're not alone". "Where Flowers Grow" is a beautiful, thoughtfully written track that tugs on our heart strings and grounds us in our purest forms of reminiscence. "Where Flowers Grow" cannot only be classified as a song, but as an entire musical experience from beginning to end. In its opening verse, ORKID's voice sends the listener into a state of entrancement as we absorb her every word. The distant, ethereal guitar coupled with her rich tone work to capture a melancholic heart, but they're juxtaposed by the consistent bass that strikes us. This contrast not only creates a complex balance between the song's delicacy and its weight, but it also demonstrates ORKID's distinct musical identity within the genre. When Lew enters on the second verse, he backs ORKID's sentiment with powerful vocals that cause our hearts to stir. His emotional and intricately lyrical delivery in both the verse and chorus spark a fire that burns optimistically within the listener. Lew's voice maintains the sensitivity of the track while also expressing a strong sense of purpose towards conveying its message. By the end of the song, we are wrapped and bound by the powerful chorus and overall production ORKID and Lew have masterfully built in their collaboration. As the song fades out, we are left with an irreplaceable feeling brought out by the new meaning behind the phrase: "where flowers grow". Swedish singer-songwriter, ORKID, has transformed the indie and electro pop genre, entering an entirely new league of her own! Solidifying her growing brand and presence in the genre, ORKID has worked with artists and producers like Mapei , Toby Romeo , and Shane Stevens , dousing herself in the abundant diversity music has to offer and sculpting her brand into something truly unique. Dedicated to her mother, ORKID's upcoming EP will posses an accumulated charm that mirrors the sentimental weight it carries. Lew, a rising name in songwriting, has recently started to make ripples in the indie scene, having most recently released his single "Paint the Sky" in May. Working with artists like GERD , Lew has expanded his discography and continues to develop as an artist. In addition to his profound written and vocal performance on "Where Flowers Grow", Lew made his debut early in June with single "Let Me Speak", showcasing some of his soulful pop elements. With ORKID's upcoming EP and Lew's rising popularity, keeping tabs on both of these talented artists is a must! Follow down below to see what's in store! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW ORKID: Instagram | Spotify FOLLOW LEW: Instagram | Spotify

Labit’s latest release “I’m A Six And She’s Like A Ninety”, disproves itself- showcasing his immense talent and ability to articulate what so many struggle to: admiration and love.  The piece is a wholesome love letter to his partner.  Labit writes as if admiring her from afar, and yet it's written from right next to her.  The basis of the song is a disconnect in how impressed he is with his partner and how he views himself, but not as a matter of insecurity.  He doesn’t use this as a means to make remarks on himself, in fact, he doesn’t speak down on himself in the slightest.  Which is why the perspective he has of her  is so powerful.  He considers himself perfectly fine, and yet, in his eyes, she still surpasses him.  He lists her qualities with intense appreciation, qualities which some may even consider flaws.  These are vetted as reasons towards why he loves her, and those which don’t quite fit as positive traits provide proof for his love for her.  He not only accepts, but admires, that which others would mark as undesirable. The instrumentals of the piece are largely acoustic and lovely simplified.  The easygoing but earnest tone they present offers the perfect pathway for a song like this.  It’s sweet and slow, gifting it a touch of romance, but not in the way partners talk to one another.  Keep in mind, this isn’t a song to her, this, instead, feels like watching a friend fall in love before they've realized it.  It’s removed, and somehow, that makes it all the more moving.  Labit’s vocals and manner of stating his lyrics display this as well.  He takes on a storytelling role, his honest voice breaking down all the little things only a loving eye sees.  Because of this, his imagery is incredible and the song as a whole offers a complete world to every listener. Labit is the creative project of Stephen Ordonez, an L.A. based artist whose expertise lies in all aspects of musicality- singing, songwriting, producing, and more.  His genre stretches nearly as far as his various skills, branching into pop, R&B, and rock.  Ordonez is a versatile creator who means it when he states he’s releasing something new each time.  This work has been recognized and collaborated on by a long list of other established artists such as Emei, Mario, Outwild, and many more. To find these releases, as well as his newest work, follow Labit below and stream “I’m A Six And She’s Like A Ninety”. Written By Hailey Schap FOLLOW LABIT: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok   | YouTube

margø celebrates Halloween year-round with each one of her incredible tracks. From her haunting aesthetics to her dark-pop productions, margø never fails to provide her listeners with flawless spooky songs. In her latest single, “pity party,” she exposes her ex-boyfriend for who he truly is – a liar and an abuser who cannot accept the consequences of his own actions. After margø had enough of his manipulation and infidelity, she left without turning back. Now, he is crying on the floor, begging for her to take him back. But she won’t be attending his “pity party.” Her clever lyricism and multiple horror personas in her music video provide a unique take on this abysmal event. While she celebrates her freedom, her subject is all alone at their loathsome party. No one is there to take pity on him, giving the singer her final revenge. margø is a brilliant songwriter, constantly leaving listeners craving more with her dark aesthetics and ingenious storylines, making her one of the best artists to follow. “pity party” continues margø’s streak of releasing unforgettable “Halloween” tracks outside the spooky season. The musical production is reminiscent of an eerie nursery rhyme, providing a creepy element to the song. With the haunting melody, all of the dark characters she portrays, and the unique lyrics, “pity party” is an inverted nursery song. While these innocent hymns are typically used to lull children to sleep, when found out of place, they convey a more sinister feeling – like when a little kid hums “Rock-A-Bye Baby” in the dark hallway of a horror film. margø’s “la la la” vocalizations and her repetition of the phrase “cry crybaby cry” deliver the opposite effect that a true nursery rhyme is supposed to provide. Instead, it instills a level of unease and dread in the listener, or more specifically, the song’s muse. After surviving their evil deeds, margø gives them a taste of their own medicine. As a fan of all things creepy, spooky, and morbid,  margø once again delivers a flawless track for my dark-pop favorite playlists. margø is a dark-pop singer-songwriter from Edmonton, Canada. She made her debut in 2019 with her single, “In Between”. Since then, the artist has released over a dozen singles and three EPs. “pity party” is the latest single from her upcoming debut album. She has over 30 million streams globally with over 7 million streams on Spotify alone for her hit single, “Play Pretend”. Furthermore, she has been featured on several of the streaming platform’s prominent playlists, such as  Villain Mode, SALT, young & free, misfits 2.0, Ready to Rock, It’s a Bop, Best of Rock 2022, Fresh Finds: Pop, Rock Now, New Music Friday Canada, and many more. margø draws inspiration from iconic rock artists such as Joan Jett and Blondie, while maintaining her individuality with a modern, dark twist. Make sure to follow her on social media to stay up to date with any future announcements and check out her creative posts that encapsulate her unique aesthetic. Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW MARGØ : Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube | Website

Rachel Grae is here with her emotional pop ballad, “The Best”! The track, which is a heartfelt anecdote that feels fresh off her diary page, was written after her head finally cleared after a break and she realized her self-worth. At the beginning of the track, she struggles to move on from a past relationship, being pulled backwards by the haunting memories. Rachel confesses she’s given her heart away to her former partner, but she “never knew one-sided love was somethin’ people went through.” She wants to wish her ex the best, “but [they] already had it.” Rachel wants their next relationship to be a healthy and loving one, but she knows they won’t have the best. Rachel reflects once more, recognizing the lack of similarities between her relationship and the ones in the movies: she’s “never [seen] a movie where the guy guys out at night/comes back in the morning, actin’ like [they’d] be alright.” She regrets being in this relationship, realizing how much of a waste of time it was loving someone who didn’t give the same love back. And in the last moments of the song, she tells her ex “but you had to let it go/you had it.” “The Best” is a classic, down to Earth, pop ballad. With just a backdrop of a grand piano, Rachel’s vocals stand out as raw, authentic, and imperfectly perfectly. Yet, the piano line perfectly accompanies her voice. There’s a slow build into the second chorus, where she adds a small chamber orchestra, whose melodies soar. The angelic background vocals and harmonies add to the uplifting spirit that lingers throughout the song, despite reassuring the sadder themes. Finally, the climax arrives at the bridge, with peak production and some smooth and effortless vocal runs on Rachel’s part. Before the last repeat of the chorus, the production takes a step back, where this intimate moment is shared between Rachel and the listener. This power ballad is an addictive listen, and it was stuck in my head immediately after the first listen. Rachel Grae is a singer and songwriter born and raised in New Jersey, but is currently based in New York. She’s known from a very young age that she wanted to pursue music while simultaneously helping people through her music. Despite only breaking into the music scene in 2021 with her single, “ Bad Timing ,” she already gained over 1.4 million listeners on Spotify alone. She has been consistently releasing music since then, constantly delivering on her music style that she describes as “a shared journal with listeners”. Rachel has received critical acclaim from publications such as MTV and Rolling Stones , and her most successful track, “ Outsider ”, has amassed over 38 million streams on Spotify. She’s recently been putting on live shows, and sold out her first headlining show in NYC. Although she hasn’t revealed her next moves yet, be sure to be on the lookout for her new music in the future.  Written By Lauren DiGiovanni FOLLOW RACHEL GRAE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Paris Paloma doesn't waste time when speaking on a topic she is very passionate about. She gifted us 'the warmth' which helps us open our minds to the cycle of personal growth and a personal renewal. The song offers a metaphorical change in seasons within our lives. The lyrics, "It's thawing / And melting the ice / White goats are grazing the mountainside," give us a glimpse into the thought process of season change within our minds. From one season comes another, and then on to the next. We might believe that change or growth can be scary, but Paris Paloma gently shows us how exciting and safe it can actually be to walk through life in this way. One of the strongest sets of lyrics is, "I used to think that I / Was running from the night / But I've been following behind / The light, all this time / It can't hurt me / It's still there but it can't now the warmth's returning." This set of lyrics explains itself and does exactly what it needs to in terms of helping us transition from one season of life to another. This song is the perfect blend of folk and indie. When the music begins, it takes us to this place which frankly reminds me a lot of Game of Thrones . We get the upbeat folk aspect that comes from string instruments, mixed with a little bit of electronic beats that polish the indie side of the song. One of the more noticeable instruments is the drum. Throughout the piece, you can hear the drum and the way it fluctuates throughout this musical journey. A key part of this musical piece is the lyrics, that hold deeper meaning than what you initially hear. Though the wording isn't overly complicated, the lyrics pack a powerful punch. When you factor in the artist's voice, it blends the piece together. The vocals add the finishing touches to the perfect folk song. Paris Paloma is a rising singer-songwriter from the UK. The song 'the warmth' is the final single leading up to her long-awaited debut album 'Cacophony' which is set to release in late August. Most people say that Paloma's music reads more like poetry and that she draws inspiration from figures throughout mythology, art history and the Romantics. Her style falls under the indie and folk genre mixed with a little bit of dark pop as well. When asked why Paloma thinks the song resonates with so many listeners, she said, "I don't like to think too hard about it. Some people say it's because of its simplicity. People can find what they need to find in it. There are people who have experiences that I've never had that are using the song, which is so wonderful. They're using it to explain their experience." Paris Paloma is a bright star who will without a doubt never burn out. Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Paris Paloma: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook

"Only U" is a song produced by MODEO and sung mostly by Robbie Rosen. The lyrics express the thoughts of two people who have strong feelings for and want to be with each other. Rosen compliments different things about the person he is attracted to, including her appearance and how he is mesmerized by her. He is entranced by her looks, which amplifies his feelings. He repeatedly describes how she is beautiful, and that he is so in love he sees her in a way she is unable to. Some lines from a woman singer duet with Rosen in the chorus, who is much more open and forward with her romantic remarks, saying she wants to begin a relationship. Robbie Rosen's incredibly talented voice is present over a fun pop beat with a concurrent unique bassline. The song encapsulates the core of the summer season - hanging out by the pool with friends, dancing at an outdoor nightclub, or driving to the beach. Either way, when this song appears on the radio, the entire atmosphere will do a complete 180, and the mix of the upbeat synthesizers and funky guitar will make you want to dance until you drop, while Rosen's runs and high notes will leave you not only more than just impressed, but will also make you add the song to your summer music playlist and want to listen to it over and over again. MODEO is a musical artist, who is very popular in Belgium, where he hails from, his songs being featured on multiple charts; one of his songs, "A New Day", held the same chart spot for nearly eighteen weeks. He has also ventured into other forms of media, such as television and writing. His music is frequently played during a vast amount of radio shows. Other popular songs from him are "My Way" and "Good Time". Robbie Rosen is a singer from New York who was a finalist on American Idol in 2011. He is also a pianist, writes and produces music, and studied music in college. He received nearly 30 million Spotify streams throughout 2023. On tour, he has opened for famous artists, including Shawn Mendes and Aaron Carter. Rosen's music has been featured on TV and music charts, and other popular songs from him include "Stay", "Tell You", and "Bad Karma". Both MODEO and Rosen are outstanding artists that greatly compliment each other on "Only U". Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW MODEO: Instagram | Spotify FOLLOW ROBBIE ROSEN: Instagram   | Spotify

Sometimes in a relationship, there are times that are tough. It can be mentally challenging, and you may think the end of the relationship is near. But when you really love someone, you’ll want to fight for them. That’s the message in Dylan Rockoff’s latest single. “Hold On” is a song about trying to convince your partner to stay and fight for the relationship. Even if they need some space, it doesn’t have to mean the end of it. I think this lyric in the chorus really ties the whole message together: “Don’t pack your bags / Don’t leave the keys / Find your peace in clarity / Take a day, take a week / Baby just stay with me.” I think Rockoff’s voice was one of my biggest sellers on this song. He has this incredible control, but I was able to interpret every bit of emotion in it. Sometimes, as he nears the end of a verse, you can hear his slight vibrato. It’s breathtaking, it’s not often I hear male artists who use vibrato like that. I also think the production behind this song is incredible. Rockoff produced “Hold On” alongside Micha Tawlks, who also mixed the sounds. I think they both did an amazing job, and it really helped to make this song as emotional and powerful as I took it. Dylan Rockoff is a singer, songwriter, and producer from Nashville, Tennessee. He released his debut album, All My Strength and All My Weakness, back in 2016. Since then, he has blown up, amassing over 86,000 monthly streams on Spotify. You may recognize him from some of his most popular hits, like “You’re the One That I Want”, “Feeling Fine”, and even “Be a Friend”. I think there’s something so mesmerizing about Rockoff’s music. It drew me in, and I don’t think I’ll be able to stop listening, now. Everyone needs to go and give “Hold On” the love it deserves. Go stream it everywhere today! Written By Isabel Mays FOLLOW DYLAN ROCKOFF: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

As the guitar strums, there is a sense of expectancy. Tess’s voice enters the chat and I’m not sure about you, but I am hooked as a listener. Her voice glides over the notes masterfully, it truly convinces the listener that she, has, indeed, been thinking about a night shared between her and her love interest. Tess sings “I still think about that night, your hand moving up my thigh.” So, we’re reminiscing of a joyful time, where physical touch with this person meant everything to Tess. The use of the word “still” implies that this happened some time ago, yet, it continues to occupy space in Tess’ mind as she recalls the night’s events and lets the reader in on the intimate moment. The drums have now linked up with the guitar and we’re in the groove of this pop-infused track. Tess’s vocals continue to shine and lead the brigade as she relays more of the story surrounding her and her love interest’s relationship. “So don’t you pretend, that we’re just friends.” Ah, there we have it. A friends-to-lovers trope where one is hesitant, but the other is ready to “jump into the water”. Tess isn’t aggressive in her plea for her love interest/friend to not hold back and to give in to their feelings, we get some pretty playful lines. “You act like you’re so complicated, like you haven’t seen me naked.” So, we’re getting into the teasing and nitty gritty. In a description of the song, it is said “One thing to know about Tess Clare’s music is that she never holds back how she feels about something… or someone. Her brand new single, “Jump into the Water” is a sexy, fun, unapologetic confession in the form of a song that sounds like riding a motorcycle down the highway, wind blowing your hair, styled in your hottest leather jacket. This song urges listeners to get up, dance like a maniac, dare to take a risk, and jump into the water.” The song does invite listeners to do the Carlton un-apologetically (the only way it should be done). So, in this song Tess is confessing her feelings to a friend/love interest but she feels that these things should be obvious since said person has “seen her naked” and had their hands on her thigh. It’s the age old, “You like me, I like you, what are we waiting for?” This bop-worthy summer song is sure to have many singing along and declaring their love hoping to acquire a friends-to-lovers trope. Although LA-based singer-songwriter, Tess Clare, describes herself as “a full-time Timothee Chalamet super fan”, I’m certain that, with a voice like hers, she has her own set of super fans. An independent artist, Clare is no newbie to both writing recording music as she’s been doing so since she just 13 years of age. Clare’s musical inspiration is said to come mainly from personal experience, with her sound best being described as energetic and happy. That is surely evident in “Jump Into the Water”, it’s a rather optimistic look at revealing one’s feelings to someone. Clare’s online presence caters to thousands of fans and Clare is no stranger to social media, posting regularly and letting fans in on her personal life as much as her professional one. I’m locked in to stay tuned for more music from the songstress, hopefully everyone reading this and listening will “Jump Into the Water” with me and follow her on all social medias below! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW TESS CLARE: Instagram | Spotify   | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

There's really nothing worse than getting your heart broken and then watching them move on like it was nothing while you're still stuck in your feelings. You just can't bring yourself to believe that they'd do you that dirty. Each day passes by with no phone calls or texts; they're probably not thinking about you at all but all of your thoughts are just memories of them playing like a movie inside of your head. "ARE YOU MISSING ME?" by ALEX BRAVIS is a sad-boy bop about that painful unknowing of whether that person you thought you loved is out there missing you too, or if they really never cared at all. "ARE YOU MISSING ME?" tells a story with gut-wrenching lyrics and smooth vocals. It features an ear-worm variety of guitar and a super catchy beat. The hook has synthesized vocals that emphasis the title of song, and it creates this cathartic experience that you just have to listen to know what I'm talking about. The production on this song is absolute perfection and really takes the whole experience to the next level. However, just Alex's words and voice alone make this song great, and actually there's a video on his Instagram of him sitting outside with just him and his guitar singing this song and I highly suggest checking that out. ALEX BRAVIS is a singer/songwriter in his 20's from Orange County, California. Alex takes pride in writing raw, emotional melodies and lyrics that people can connect with. He's inspired and influenced by artists like Jeremy Zucker , Lauv , Bazzi , Olivia Rodrigo and The Kid LAROI . He released his debut single in 2021, titled "DREAM". Since then, leading up to now, he's released a total of eight songs including "ARE YOU MISSING ME?". HIs 2021 single, "I STILL MISS YOU" gained traction with over 60,000 stream on Spotify alone - and this most recent single (just from my point of view) seems to be a continuation of that story. On Instagram, ALEX has teased that he is working on even more new music, so make sure to stay tuned by following him below! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW ALEX: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook

United Kingdom based Pop Singer/Songwriter, Multi-Instrumentalist and Producer, Sarah Griffiths, better known as Griff , has finally released her highly anticipated debut album, "Vertigo". TRACKLIST Vertigo Miss Me Too Into The Walls 19th Hour Astronaut Anything Pillow In My Arms Cycles Tears For Fun Hiding Alone Hole In My Pocket Everlasting So Fast Where Did You Go Griff is the daughter of a Chinese mother and a Jamaican father, breaking waves in mainstream music and pop stereotypes. The 23-year-old grew up in a small village on the outskirts of London, England. She's always had a love for music, listening to her parents tastes, such as RnB and Classic Soul, and is an OG Swiftie from 2008 when Taylor Swift released her Fearless album. Griff taught herself how to produce music as a teenager by watching YouTube videos and by using her brothers computer to practice. She broke out into the music scene in 2019 with her debut single, "Eternal Flame" and has continuously released music since then. In 2021, she won the 'Rising Star Award' at the BRIT Awards . Last year in 2023, Griff released the song "Vertigo" as single, which was then shared by Taylor Swift on her Instagram story which gave Griff the global love and attention that she deserves. From this point on, Griff gradually released in parts what would become her debut album, also titled "Vertigo", and become an opener on the European leg of Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour . Lets dive in. Vertigo We're kicking off the album with the title track and leading single, "Vertigo". This is the infectious song that started it all. Originally written with Congee over one note, Griff describes "Vertigo" as a simple song, but when you listen to it, it feels like anything but simple. She has a voice that immediately draws you in, and a melody that takes over your heart. The song is about someone who is too afraid to take that next step in a relationship; they don't want things to get too serious or they don't want to get too close in fear of getting hurt, so instead they ruin something good instead of taking a leap of faith. "Vertigo" builds and builds until you get to this bridge and outro chorus that shoots you off into outer space. It's a hip-hop inspired, synth-pop song that if you listen to it, I promise you'll be putting it on repeat. Miss Me Too "Miss Me Too" is about missing that younger, naïve version of yourself that never experienced any heartbreak or hurt. When talking about this song, Griff described it as having a conversation with yourself, and wishing you could find a way to get that part of yourself back. Written with Lost Boy and Siba , "Miss Me Too" feels like a mixture of dance pop and a nostalgic, cenematic experience. I could imagine this song being in a early 2000's inspired teen rom-com movie. The music itself makes you want to get up and dance, but really, the lyrics and the emotion behind this song are really heartbreaking and relatable for anyone who has felt like they have lost themselves; whether it's just from the simple fact of growing up, or from having to experience painful and stressful life events. I think we all can say we wish we could go back to when times were more simple and easy. Into The Walls Breaking things down a bit, we have track 3, "Into The Walls". This song touches on the subject of mental health, when it's just one of those days you wish you could disappear and not have to think or worry about anything. On the subject of writing "Into The Walls", Griff mentions how it's about looking around and almost being jealous of the walls surrounding you; because not only are they stronger and they can hold themselves together, but they get to just exist with no worry and watch the world go by. "It's a bit of a stream of consciousness" , Griff tells Apple Music . "'Today, I really, really don't think I can do this' is the essence of the song. And it's that fantasy, it might be nice to disappear and to not be in my body for a second." "Into The Walls" takes more of a folk approach in it's soundscape, with acoustic guitar, echoing background vocals and a gentle tapping beat. 19th Hour "19th Hour" is about that person that only says what they know you want to hear, but never changes their actions to match their words. It gets to the point where "I'm Sorry" doesn't do any justice, and "I Love You" feels like a lie. However, you just can't get yourself to give up on them, even though deep down you know that you should. Filled with layers of harmonies and an infectious hook and melody, "19th hour" is an addicting song that has earned it's place as another bop on the "Vertigo" album. Astronaut "Astronaut" is a gorgeous, highly emotional piano ballad that Griff wrote all by herself. Starting with the lyric, "You said that you needed space, go on then astronaut" , Griff sat at a piano alone and created this heartbreaking, cosmic track about those situations where you have to pretend it doesn't hurt when a relationship doesn't work out the way you wanted it to. Recorded with British Pop/Rock Band Coldplay 's front-man Chris Martin playing the piano, "Astronaut" has a very classic, almost power-pop type of tone. It's very different from the other tracks, in the best way possible. The raw emotion in Griff's voice in this particular song is so deep, it's enough to leave a tear in your eye. Anything "Anything" is about the messed up fact that you would've done literally anything for someone, and they took advantage of the power of knowing that fact. Although the meaning behind the song is a little painful, the music itself is super upbeat and fun. The groove and instrumentation are very 80's synth pop and rock inspired. When I first listened, it reminded me a lot of "Stockholm Syndrome" by One Direction . I love the Wilson Phillips style harmonies that Griff uses here as well as the "ANYTHING!" being screamed in the chorus, to really emphasis the seriousness of the situation she's singing about here. Pillow In My Arms Griff says "Pillow In My Arms" is the one song on this album that is the closest to her earliest music, considering that it's completely self-written and self-produced as well. It has a simple, yet addicting, catchy groove that just builds and builds as the song goes on, a skill that Griff has mastered. "Pillow In My Arms" is ultimately about loneliness; how at the end of the day, the only thing you have left to hold at night is your pillow. You squeeze it tight for comfort, as if it has the ability to care for you. Griff compares it to the character Miss Havisham from the classic Charles Dicken 's novel, Great Expectations where she's left sitting in her wedding dress after being left at the altar. Cycles Written with songwriters Congee , Vera Carlbom , and Minna Koivisto while attending a songwriting camp, Griff explains that the lyrics for "Cycles" came naturally with the concept for this album being about the spinning feeling of vertigo. The song is about that "never really over" type of relationship, where you're stuck in the cycle of catching feelings, getting in a fight, almost breaking up, making up, and then the cycle repeats. It's enough to drive anybody crazy! The production style on this song is highly unique and leans more towards the electronica side of things. It was produced by one of Griff's biggest influences when it comes to producing, Mura Masa . Tears For Fun Griff explained that "Tears For Fun" was heavily inspired by 80's pop, especially Yazoo 's "Only You". The song is about when you've cried so much, you start to wonder if you make yourself cry on purpose just for the fun of it; like maybe there's part of you that enjoys the pain. It's a fun track with layered harmonies that will have you moving and grooving all around your bedroom. Hiding Alone "Hiding Alone" is about that one person in the world who makes you feel better. Whenever you're with them, nothing else matters and the rest of the world disappears. They make you feel peace - but when they're not around, you feel lost. This is a stand out track for me, because it's one of the only songs with a lead guitar and heavy popping bass. It has those feel-good, Summer Jam vibes that are perfect for a pick-me-up. There's a bit of Funk, Soul and RnB to the groove that remind me a bit of The Jonas Brothers . If you need a song to send to your best friend to remind them how special they are to you, this is a good choice. Hole In My Pocket "Hole In My Pocket" is a beautiful, simple and ethereal song about growing up and losing things as your life goes on - whether that be relationships, friends, physical things, places you've lived, memories or physical items you cared about. It's another song that feels straight out of the 80's, except this one really reminds me sonically of HAIM with the harmonic choices and reverb. Everlasting Just to me, "Everlasting" felt like one of the most personal and most vulnerable songs on this entire album. Everyone wants to believe that true love exists, but the hard honest truth is that there is no such thing as a perfect relationship. Every couple fights, every couple goes through rough patches, and there's going to be times where you want to give up. Some of us witness the rough patches between our parents when we're growing up; unfortunately, some of our parents didn't make it through. This leaves an imprint on us and can effect our own relationships as adults. This is what "Everlasting" is about; wanting to believe that love can last, but fearing that it can't. This song is soft, features strings and many layers of effects and vocals. It's the most Taylor Swift reminiscent track I've heard so far, and also reminded me a bit of Maisie Peters as well. So Fast "So Fast" is quite the opposite of it's title, slowing things down to an acoustic folk track. Accompanied by only hazy, sustained guitar chords, Griff sings softly about having an interaction with someone, and being so lonely that at the end of the night you wish you could ask them to stay a little longer just to get a bit more human interaction. Where Did You Go Closing out this incredible album, we have the unconventional track, "Where Did You Go". This song is borderline A-Capella with layers and layers of synthesized, harmonized vocals. This is a song to listen to with your eyes closed; it's a cathartic experience that can't be explained - you just have to listen. The song can be perceived in many different perspectives, as done on purpose by Griff. The first half is someone asking the question, while the second half is the reply. It can be seen as a child looking for a parent who left, or someone who abandoned a romantic relationship, or the one that might just hit the hardest - that moment when you've realized that you've lost yourself, and you don't know how to get you back. This was my first time really listening to Griff on such a deep level, and I have to say she's earned herself a new fan. Not only is she so incredibly talented, she also is a very humble and kind person. I am so impressed with her lyricism, production skills, vocal control and her ear for addicting melodies. "Vertigo" the album deserves so much more hype and attention!! There's not a single song on this album that I did not enjoy; I'll be adding this to my top favorites of the entire year. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.