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  • Review: "Fall Apart" - Tanja

    Transform your surroundings into a mystical world with “Fall Apart” by artist Tanja. Beginning with Tanja’s melodic, powerful voice, “Fall Apart” is a song of sympathy and protection of oneself. As the song escalates alongside Tanja’s story with the subject of this song, boundaries are put in place that show Tanja’s maturity and care for the other person. She states that she will not be the one “there to fix you” when this other person comes to her with troubles of sadness from their relationship, but does so with gentleness and care. Although this song could be interpreted as a “revenge song” in some ways, in my opinion, the nature of the song’s sound is too kind and melodic to be labelled as a tune of revenge. There are layers to Tanja’s writing and story within “Fall Apart” that can resonate with an audience who’s been hurt and had to step back from a relationship that’s no longer working, yet it does so with intent and purpose. While it’s understandable to go the “revenge song” route and dive into those feelings, Tanja takes “Fall Apart” and tells a story from the perspective of someone who’s been wronged and is putting themselves first before anything else. “Fall Apart” tells the story of Tanja and an ex-partner from the other side of the relationship – after they have terminated their bond. The track opens with Tanja detailing why she has to take a step back and cannot be there for her ex-partner, saying they were a “ship about to crash”, while Tanja was the tide bringing them back. This is a declaration of where she stands in regard to the relationship and why she can no longer be the voice of reason and comfort for this other person. This pain, yet power, can be clearly heard in the instrumental components put together to support Tanja’s voice. Between the mix of string instruments and piano, a world of mystical wonder opens your eyes & ears. As “Fall Apart” dives into this sound, it reminds me of artists like Stevie Nicks and Olivia Rodrigo. These artists, like Tanja, delve into a sound that is layered in elements that transform their music from one realm to another. Although there are clear pop qualities embedded into “Fall Apart”, there’s a quality to Tanja’s sound that draws my mind to a more wonderous, fantasy-like, darker place. Tanja is a 26-year-old singer from Napa Valley, California. To pursue music, Tanja moved to Los Angeles, California. Tanja enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and walking through nature. On the other hand, Tanja loves to incorporate gothic qualities into her music and image. Inspired by gothic literature, Tanja created her EP based off the work she explored. Tanja is additionally inspired by artists like Stevie Nicks and Kate Bush, who have incorporated gothic-like elements into their music and image. Tanja was recently nominated twice for the Hollywood Independent Music Awards and is continuing to make music as she plays shows throughout Los Angeles. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW TANJA: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Lemon Face" - Class Vee

    Class Vee cooked up a classic summer hit with her latest single, Lemon Face  – a track that listeners are sure to become addicted to, given its catchy lyrics and high-energy atmosphere. Class Vee sets the tone early with her line "My life and colors shine and I feel so free, I like how I live and I love just how I'm doing", letting her audience know that this burgeoning pop star is comfortable in her own skin and won't let any naysayers drag her down with their negativity. Haters are put on notice during the chorus as Class Vee belts out "Just keep it moving please, You're blocking sun from me" painting the picture of an artist too busy doing her thing to allow someone else's cynicism to get in the way of her own happiness. It's simple, just put on Lemon Face and try not to smile as you listen along – I guarantee you'll be grinning ear to ear from start to finish. Lemon Face is a bright, synth-laden track with an iconic 80s era feel that makes for an enjoyably catchy listen. Class Vee brings a refreshingly energetic aura that ups the dose of fun for the audience as they are quickly drawn in by the song's infectious, high-octane vibe. This is a tune overflowing with positivity and self-empowerment, as felt by its bubbly instrumentation and intoxicating melodies. This is the perfect summer song to put on full blast as you drive the interstate with your windows down soaking up the warm rays of the sun. Lemon Face is an instant classic for all fans of fun, high-quality pop music looking for an instant mood-enhancer during the sultry summer months. Victoria, aka Class Vee, is an up-and-coming bilingual American pop artist from New Jersey with deep familial ties to the Dominican Republic. Her artist name is a byproduct of her profound love for different classes of music, fashion, and "words of expression" – a trait that firmly places the young starlet into a class all her own. The vintage pop vibe felt in much of her music stems from her affinity for the movie Sixteen Candles , which Victoria cites as having been her first introduction to the 80s aesthetic she has since adapted to her own unique brand of artistry. Class Vee is surely an artist listeners can fall in love with and support, as her humble beginnings were filled with enough trauma that it's almost hard to believe how far she's been able to come on her own. Her "rocky childhood" began with the loss of both her parents, foster care, and even homelessness at one point – making this ascending talent the type of feel-good artist we can all rally behind as she continues to prove that her past will not slow her down on the way to future stardom. Written By Dan Caddigan FOLLOW CLASS VEE: Instagram   | Spotify   | Twitter  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "Rewind" - Nadia Vaeh

    Losing a loved one is always a difficult experience, leaving us to navigate grief and find a way to heal from the loss. The pain is an ache that comes and goes, battling with the what-could've-beens and reminders of the person you lost. Nadia Vaeh expresses this grief perfectly in her new single, "Rewind," exploring the pain she feels from losing her mom to suicide. Sharing the personal story behind the song's narrative, Vaeh states, "We lost my mom when I was on the edge of 17 to suicide. She taught me that words were a way that I could make sense of the world; especially the saddest parts <3 I've finally written a song about it all these years later about this loss. It's yours now <3 Thank you for listening!!" Cathartic and nostalgic, Nadia Vaeh reflects on memories of her mother over a classic pop-punk soundscape in "Rewind." The track features electrifying guitar riffs, driving drums, and infectious melodies, giving "Rewind" an energetic and addictive feel. Vaeh channels her inner Paramore , delivering a powerful vocal performance reminiscent of Hayley Williams . It's clear that the sound in "Rewind" is inspired by several pop-punk icons, being a perfect new find for fans of artists like All Time Low , blink-182 , Green Day , Bowling for Soup , and Avril Lavigne . Matching the music’s vibe, “Rewind” is paired with a captivating music video filled with attitude and a fun pop-punk aesthetic.   An IMA "Vox Pop" winner and Atlanta native, Nadia Vaeh is making herself known in the music industry with what has been deemed "poptimistic-rock." She uses her creative spirit to embrace your inner villain, exploring the lows of mental health, the highs of toxic relationships, and the roller-coaster we call life. Vaeh inherits her lifelong love of poetry and music from her late mother, fueling her to raise awareness for the importance of mental health through her craft. Sharing her hopes for her music, Vaeh states, " I hope my songs can provide some refuge for my listeners and help keep them inspired to go for their dreams." Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW NADIA VAEH: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "I Won't Say It Hurts" - Samantha Neves

    Pop newcomer Samantha Neves has just released her first English single, "I Won't Say It Hurts," on July 17, 2024. The electropop anthem was created with the help of Clifford Goilo and Vito Luprano. On "I Won't Say It Hurts," Neves is all fed up with men being "pathetic" and ready to walk away from the guy she was dating because of his behavior. She is done acting like it hurts to see him getting all upset. It's an empowering sentiment complemented by a hyperpop, synth-filled soundscape. For those looking for a new track to blast with the windows down this summer, look no further than this one. Fans of artists like Dua Lipa and Rita Ora will be captured by Neves' infectious pop hooks and upbeat production in "I Won't Say It Hurts." Her bright vocals sing about cutting a man off that does not deserve her. She calls him out for being disrespectful, jealous, and invasive. In the refrain, she sings, "I won't say it hurts when you cry." The track is all about knowing your self-worth and when to walk away from someone that is holding you back. Even if you're not dealing with a breakup, the empowering anthem is the perfect song to blast and dance around. Make sure to add it to your favorite playlist! Samatha Neves is an aspiring pop icon from Canada. Her dream has been to work in music since she was 9 years old, and now, she continues to achieve it. In 2019, she was a semi-finalist on La Voix (The Voice). Her career was propelled even further in 2023 when she connected with a new manager and a new executive producer/artistic director. "I Won't Say It Hurts" might be Neves' first English single, but I am certain we have more to look forward to. If you enjoyed this track, definitely check out the rest of her music and keep up with all the latest information by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW SAMANTHA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Meet Me in the Garden" - Allison Leah

    Ever since I reviewed Allison Leah’s last single “Sunsets”, I’ve been excitedly awaiting the release of her next project. Now we’re here with “Meet Me in the Garden”, a gorgeously folksy track tinted with romance as sweet as roses. This is a song for those with their heads stuck in the clouds, constantly dreaming of running away from it all to meet their love in a garden. Surrounded by sparkling strings and beautiful vocals, the only thing that will matter in that flowery haven is your hand in theirs, and the beating of your hearts. “Meet Me in the Garden” is just one of those songs that makes you smile and think about whoever you love in your life; saccharine and sunny, it’s a relatable track for anyone who is in love. “Meet Me in the Garden” makes me want to lay in a warm field in the middle of summer and watch the clouds– every bit of it is laced with romantic imagery and fairytale-like emotions. You get all of that just within the first few seconds as Leah begins the song with an echoing “Run, run, run” as the instrumentals slowly grow. The first verse is gentle, percussion and folk-laden strings surrounded by evocative lyrics that paint vivid pictures in your mind; it introduces the track’s universe with rosy hues and candied lyricism. With lines like, “Keep my heart in your pocket / And wear it every day” it’s hard not to see this song as beautifully romantic in every facet– and this is just the first verse! The song continues to illustrate these moments with expert writing, the narrator dreaming of running away with their love into a secret garden under “lilac skies”, their hands in one another’s. I love how the song has such a specific vision that is simultaneously particular yet universal– the want to simply escape with your love to a place where only the two of you matter. As always, Leah’s masterful lyricism weaves this story with delicate writing; combined with her vocals and the lovely instrumentals, “Meet Me in the Garden” is the perfect song to daydream to. Allison Leah is a Nashville-based folk pop artist whose talent for songwriting is coupled with honest storytelling. Vulnerable, introspective, and ethereal, her music presents the human experience through a melodious folk lens. With such a wide audience, it’s no surprise to see that her music has been featured on playlists such as “New from NYC: Folk” (Spotify), “Fresh Cuts” (Pandora), “Today’s Tunesmiths and Troubadours”, and WFUV radio. She’s also performed at the Black Bear Americana Music Festival, Tucson Folk Festival, The Listening Room, City Winery, and many more locations. 2017 marked the year of her debut single “A Love Song” which was followed by her 2018 debut EP “Fly Home”. “Meet Me in the Garden” is Leah’s second single of 2024, and if you enjoyed it, you should definitely listen to the rest of her fantastic discography as we all patiently await her next release– I know I will be! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW ALLISON LEAH: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | Website

  • Review: "reminders of you" - Savanna Leigh

    Savanna Leigh has done it yet again with her newest release, 'reminders of you', which further explores what it's like to outgrow relationships and past versions of yourself. She makes this relatable and easy to grasp through the lyrics. Some of the lyrics say "My biggest regret / Is having to know the what-ifs." This pulls the listener in because it's a common experience within a relationship to think about all of the things that might go wrong. This feeling comes in part with the fact that the relationship is new and it's easy to be scared. We connect more to the feeling of missing past versions of ourselves in the lyrics "It feels kinda strange / Laying down in my room / And the reminders of you / The reminders of you." I think, if we're really vulnerable with ourselves, sometimes we can catch ourselves thinking about who we used to be in moments of isolation or quiet. This isn't a bad thing, it's a moment of recognition. Realization that we are growing every day, each day we're different from the person we were the day before. I think Savanna Leigh does an amazing job of allowing us to experience those feelings with her. 'reminders of you' is a bit more solemn. The beat is slow, but not slow enough to make the listener grow uninterested. The song includes a variety of instruments but the ones that seem to be heard best are the drums and guitar. The guitar gives the song a soft flow that allows us to keep up with the rest of the instruments and vocals once they start. When the vocals begin, they add a level of depth which helps drive the mood of the song home. The vocals are soft, with the slightest tinge of sadness, this adds the element of realness or actuality to the topic at hand. When you factor all of these moving parts together, it creates a really beautiful piece of music that allows us to open up our hearts and minds to what the artist is trying to tell us. The song lets us feel the sadness and acceptance of letting go and reminiscing while also growing in a new way. Savanna Leigh is no doubt one of the most talented singer-songwriters in the present-day musical realm. She wrote her first song at the age of twelve, which showcased her talent and passion for music. Eventually, this led her to Nashville on a music scholarship. When asked about her latest song, Savanna Leigh said, "I want my listeners to feel safe when navigating their own journey of self-reflection, where they might discover something about themselves that they didn't know before. It's important for the songs to allow someone to feel all of the emotions without fear of judgement, from other people or from themselves." Savanna Leigh has showed us that there's nowhere else to go but up. I can say that 'reminders of you' will be on repeat in my playlist for the next month, at least. Don't miss out on this incredible song, you might just regret it if you do. Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Savanna Leigh: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Small Town Syndrome" - Mae Stephens

    Mae Stephens isn’t afraid to pour her heart out in a song, and her latest track, “Small Town Syndrome,” is another example of just how raw and vulnerable she’s willing to get. The song’s title really speaks for itself. It talks about feeling trapped in a small town community where everyone knows every little detail about you, and the struggle of trying to find both a physical and emotional way out. Yet, below the surface, the song has a much deeper meaning. Stephens says, “The song’s main theme is really of those dreaming of escape and new beginnings.” Whether or not you can relate to the frustrations of small town gossip, the pre-chorus lyrics, “I don’t wanna face this mess // Can I stay here in this bed,” are thoughts I’m sure we’ve all felt in the midst of some sort of strife, and Stephens couldn’t have summed it up better. “Small Town Syndrome” is an alt-pop ballad that sonically matches the tone of its deep-cutting lyrics. The song starts off with a piano and Stephen’s mesmerizing voice – both working cohesively to set up the track’s emotional narrative. As the song progresses, listeners hear the track progress even more with the addition of Stephen’s ethereal harmonies and subtle synth beats that help further build up the feelings of angst and frustration that the artist reflects on in the nearly three-minute long ballad. If “Small Town Syndrome” is any indication of what listeners can expect from her upcoming EP Securely Insecure , it’s clear that Stephens is going to leave it all on the table and rack in another massive hit in the process. Music has always been a source of comfort for Mae Stephens. The British pop singer-songwriter, who began writing songs at the age of 12, used her gift to navigate through her teenage years and her own struggles with mental health. While Stephens was having to balance songwriting and working shifts at her local Asda supermarket just a mere 18 months ago, she’s now a star on the rise. Her 2023 funk-infused pop track “If We Ever Broke Up,” proved to be a huge breakthrough for Stephens, reaching Gold status in both the U.S. and UK and racking in over 300 million streams on Spotify. She was also named one of VEVO’s “Artists to Watch” for 2024. Through her honest and reflective lyricism, Stephens hopes to use her voice and music to help those who may be seeking an escape from their own personal hardships. Her latest single, “Small Town Syndrome,” is now available on all music streaming platforms. Written By Giselle Morales FOLLOW MAE STEPHENS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "How Do You Want Me?" - Ariana Fig

    It’s the openness of a burgeoning romance that can truly finalize your feelings for someone. Questions of their true intentions can linger with an echo, basking in its query, stewing on their true intentions with us, why  they ever fell for us in the first place– testing the waters, seeing just how close we can get to this person, how open they are willing to be with vulnerable feelings. The anticipation of it all can be quite a nuisance, the desire flourishing with fascination as we wait for our answers– silently wondering to ourselves if we’re being led on, unrequited, or if the shared feelings are truly genuine. At some point, we feel dragged along, almost as though our honesty of romance isn’t being reciprocated or met. “How Do You Want Me?” by Ariana Fig tells a similar story. It’s a question that is often put into painstaking thought during the beginning stages of a growing relationship– how willing the other person is to be open. A question that illustrates our dawdling inquisitiveness, feeling the need to gain a comprehensive understanding of how deep our connection is with this person. Ariana’s lyrics dive deep with immense emotion and accuracy that is sure to resonate with listeners, her soulful voice adding more vehemency and significance to the story the song depicts. With Ariana’s masterful abilities in storytelling through striking lyrics, we are painted such an articulate and elaborate picture of the scenario, her evocative and smooth voice being an additional asset to the candid story the song tells. To me, Ariana Fig has perfectly captured the respectable emotions and the honest thoughts one goes through during the first stages of a new romance– it’s a story that a plethora of listeners will see themselves relating to, as have I. I’ve found her lyrics to especially resonate with sentiments I have experienced throughout my life. Ariana Fig began her journey as a musical artist at the very young age of just three years old! Showcasing her early talents with the use of a violin– only for her passions to burgeon further, as she grew into her teen years, becoming a self-taught guitarist, pianist, and vocalist all at the age of thirteen years old! Ariana’s music seems to resonate and intermingle with sounds like pop, electronic, folk, and hints of jazz. Most of Ariana’s music is emotive and vulnerable, singing about solemn topics, being able to open up through the artists that inspire such heart-felt music like Stevie Nicks and Alanis Morissette. Ariana’s incessant hard work does not go unnoticed, as she has gathered many achievements throughout her journey as a singer and songwriter! Including winning SOCAN’s Honorary Young Canadian Songwriter Award, and her song titled “Running Man” receiving airplay on SiriusXM along with many more of her songs being supported on radio stations who have cherished her hard work publicly, sharing it with listeners around the world. As Ariana Fig continues to grow as a singer and songwriter, I look forward to hearing more of her music and stirring lyrics! To keep up with such a talented singer like Ariana, follow her socials.  Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW ARIANA FIG: Instagram   | Spotify  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Album Review: "I Love You So F***ing Much" - Glass Animals

    Photo Credits: When The Horn Blows Nearly four years since the release of Dreamland , Glass Animals is back with their fourth studio album, I Love You So F***ing Much . The iconic psychedelic/electropop band began teasing the album in February 2024, leading up to its release by spreading posters, dropping hints on SoundCloud via the username “ hal900000 ,” and changing the band’s website to reflect the album’s underlying space theme. TRACK LIST 1. Show Pony 2. whatthehellishappening? 3. Creatures in Heaven 4. Wonderful Nothing 5. A Tear in Space (Airlock) 6. I Can't Make You Fall in Love Again 7. How I Learned To Love The Bomb 8. White Roses 9. On the Run 10. Lost in the Ocean Formed in 2010 in Oxford, England, Glass Animals is a renowned group consisting of members Dave Bayley, Drew MacFarlane, Edmund Irwin-Singer, and Joe Seaward. They released their debut album, Zaba , in 2014, putting them on the map with the single “ Gooey ,” which later became certified platinum. Continuing that success in 2020, Glass Animals released their hit single “ Heat Waves ” and third studio album, Dreamland , keeping the band at the top of the charts. Despite this success, frontman Dave Bayley found himself feeling more isolated than ever, battling with the strict protocols of COVID and self-isolation after becoming sick with the virus. This left the singer alone in a rented house in LA, looking down on the twinkling lights of the city and finding the inspiration for I Love You So F***ing Much . Shedding light on the story behind the recent album, Bayley shares on Apple Music , “I’d tried to make a space record before, but it came out too cold. It didn’t feel human or relatable enough. Being in that house literally put it in perspective. I looked out and saw all these people walking around, the families and people in the gas stations having an argument. You see these human relationships and how complex and important they are, and you realize how powerful those human interactions are. Those relationships and those feelings are much bigger than everything else. The little things right in front of you are actually more important.” While the band’s previous album, Dreamland , saw the four-piece experimenting sonically and putting together eccentric soundscapes, I Love You So F***ing Much has Glass Animals returning to more of a commercial electropop feel. The album kicks off with the track “Show Pony,” delivering an upbeat and infectious song about idealizing love. “Show Pony” features a narrative about how we build up certain ideas of love when we’re growing up, developing a fairytale about what love should be before we even experience it. It’s surprising that it wasn’t released as a single ahead of the album as it’s one of the most addictive entries on I Love You So F***ing Much , showcasing Glass Animals’ best songwriting with memorable melodies, epic choruses, and unforgettable synth-laden instrumentals.   Next on the list, “whatthehellishappening?” follows “Show Pony” by outlining a situation where you’re being pulled along for an overwhelming ride but still find joy in the experience. The lyrics reflect on the complexity of the situation, feeling helpless while also feeling a thrill over not calling the shots. Accompanying the track’s narrative, “whatthehellishappening?” features a euphoric soundscape complete with spirited guitar riffs, vibrant synths, energetic melodies, and driving beats. “Creatures in Heaven” follows “whatthehellishappening,” showing everyone why it was the main teaser leading up to the album’s release. It’s love incarnate, featuring tender verses, rapturous choruses, and rich instrumentals that transport us to a state of ecstasy. The track was personal one for the band’s frontman with Bayley stating, “I was pushing myself to be tender and just lay it out as nakedly as possible. It’s meant to show that these tiny moments can completely change your life. It can be one second where you didn’t say something and you regret it for the rest of your life and it changes every decision you make in a similar context forever. It’s trying to say how fragile and vulnerable those moments are. It’s an emotional one. For me, it’s a very personal story, but I hope people can relate different instances of their own life to it.”   Contrasting the uncontainable feelings of love in “Creatures in Heaven,” “Wonderful Nothing” comes next with an exploration into the complexity of hate. Bayley believes hate is a type of love, explaining that, “To hate someone you have to love them and to love someone means that you might hate parts of them. They’re strongly linked and strongly attached.” Reflecting the nature of the lyrics, the soundscape in “Wonderful Nothing” is much darker, sounding reminiscent of Glass Animals’ “Space Ghost Coast To Coast” from Dreamland . Being the other single preceding the release of I Love You So F***ing Much , “A Tear in Space (Airlock)” comes next with an interesting twist on modern pop. The track features a production technique used frequently in modern pop, using sidechain compression to give the song a feeling of the air being sucked out of it.   Being credited by Bayley as the rawest moment on the album, “I Can’t Make You Fall in Love Again” tackles tough feelings as the singer reflects on how you can’t make someone love you. The synth-laden track has a dark dance-pop feel to it, featuring pulsing beats and infectious melodies with a sad undertone reflecting the tragedy of the song’s narrative. “How I Learned To Love The Bomb” is deceptively light-hearted, weaving the tale of coming to terms with someone having a darker side to them that you’ve never seen before. There’s a complexity to the scenario as the song addresses how it’s simultaneously exciting and terrifying, thrilling in a way that’s dangerous. Switching the perspective of “I Can’t Make You Fall in Love,” “White Roses” explores someone’s inability to change your feelings despite really wanting to. You want to make them happy and give them the world, but there’s a part of you that just doesn’t reciprocate their feelings. “On The Run” comes next, referencing Douglas Adams’ Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy . The novel and radio show served as a large influence on I Love You So F***ing Much  with Bayley finding inspiration in the soundtrack and using the equipment BBC Radio Workshop used to make the sound effects on the album. Concluding the album on a positive note, “Lost in the Ocean” gives us a friendly reminder to find the good in life, no matter how chaotic things might feel. Bayley states that “It’s the conclusion that we’ve come through all this. The spaceship has literally landed in the ocean. It’s a letter to myself in that way. It’s not necessarily about understanding everything that’s happened, it’s more just saying that it’s all chaos and that’s quite exciting. It’s a good thing to remember that these little things are there, and they’ll never go away. They’re always going to ground you and bring you back to earth in the end.” Though the album has yet to make any headway on the charts, I Love You So F***ing Much has quite the track list to offer longtime Glass Animals fans or even those who are just casual listeners. It is a commercial and electropop daydream, delivering infectious hook after infectious hook and capturing us with addictive melodies. By the end of the album, we’re left wanting so much more and hoping that it won’t be another four years before we hear from the band again. Written By Cheyenne Johnson Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

  • Album Review: "Irrational" - Shane Rennison

    Photo Credits: Mike Bloom Indie Pop/Rock Singer-Songwriter from Upstate New York, Shane Rennison has just released his highly anticipated debut album, "Irrational". Consisting of 11 tracks, "Irrational" was made possible over the past 2 years with composer, producer and audio engineer, Julian Giaimo whom Shane has also collaborated on projects including his "Nice To Meet You" EP and his "Live at the Outlier Inn" Session. TRACKLIST All The Scars Draggin' What You Need To Know I Think It's You Irrational Too Beautiful Losin' You Hey Hey Hey Somewhere In Albany Long Road Where I'm At... Reigning from the mountains of Catskill, New York, Shane Rennison is a full time performing musician, songwriter and recording artist. He spends most of his time playing at local venues, and can cover songs by over 150 bands spanning across various genres. His sound has been compared to the likes of Vampire Weekend , Passion Pit , and Harry Styles . He officially released his first original single in 2022, titled "You Don't Wanna Hear It". A few more singles and an EP later, we're here in 2024 with Shane's debut album, "Irrational". This album is meant to be listened to as a whole, each track purposely transitioning into each other like they're part of the same story. Let's dive in to what "Irrational" has in store. All The Scars Opening up the album, we have "All The Scars" which was released as the fourth and final single in anticipation for the album release. Giving off 60's vibes, "All The Scars" features old-fashioned keys, raw drums and a dreamy / hazy production. The song is about having trouble letting go of things have hurt you in the past. Even though you try to move on, those insecurities and negative voices are still echoing in the back of your head. Shane sings, "It's hard to ignore all the scars" . Drawing from personal experiences, Shane wrote "All The Scars" when he had moved to NYC, and being around new people had brought up old wounds from the past. Little did he know then, that he'd write a song that would be relatable for so many people out there. Draggin' Track two is "Draggin'", a dark, groovy, pop rock bop. The soundscape is kind of haunting, yet satisfying when you hear that distorted lead guitar take over. It also has a bit of an island influenced beat to it that gets you moving. Shane has a smooth vocal here that really fit well with the minor key and the gritty tone of the instrumentation. "Draggin'" seems to be about that type of woman who pretends to be innocent and nice, but really she's just pretending to be interested in you for the night - and then you'll probably never hear from her again (unless you've proven to have money). Yeah, that type of woman. What You Need To Know Earlier this year, "What You Need To Know" was released as the leading single in anticipation for Shane's album release and it has become a fan favorite. Bouncing off of the meaning of "Draggin'", "What You Need To Know" is about someone who needs somebody to put them in their place. This person is self-absorbed, and they think they can just skate through life because they're "attractive". Well guess what, Shane's got some hard truth for people like this. "Looks will fade and then who will be there for you? This song is about telling someone what they need to know, even when it’s hard for them to hear, with the intention of trying to help them grow emotionally." - Shane Rennison . With eerie piano, a tropical feel, and twangy guitar, this song in particular gives me a mix of Jason Mraz and MAGIC! vibes. I Think It's You Next, we have "I Think It's You", the third single to come out before the album. This song is about that moment in a struggling romantic relationship when you realize you're not the problem, and it never was; it's been them all along. Sometimes we get so caught up in wanting things to work, especially in a long-term relationship, that we blame ourselves for the issues - but unfortunately, it doesn't always work that way. Once you take those rose tinted glasses off, it's easier to not only learn to love yourself again, but to move on. "I Think It's You" has a somber, yet still hopeful and soulful mood of what it's like to finally let go of a toxic, manipulative relationship. With gorgeous moments of strings and haunting piano, this is a great song for anybody out there who has been through something like this. Irrational Perfectly nestled at track number 5, we have the title track, "Irrational". This was released as the second single earlier this year, and again seems to bounce off the themes of other songs on the album. "Irrational" is about someone who causes problems in a relationship, and them amplifies those problems beyond fixing - basically, acting irrationally, or unreasonable. No matter what you do or how hard you try, they won't let you repair what's been broken. And just like that, with one swift blow, the relationship you worked so hard for is suddenly gone. Even though the meaning seems pretty tragic, this song is actually a groovy bop that is perfect for the Summertime. Another fan favorite, this song is radio worthy and I suggest blasting it with the windows down on a sunny day while you drive around with your friends. Too Beautiful When I listened to "Too Beautiful" for the first time, I audibly said out loud "woah, this song is badass". That is probably the best way I could describe it, but I will choose to say more. Shane is calling out this woman on her shit; calling her too beautiful in the catchiest hook possible, but tearing her a new one in the verses by spitting bars like it's nobody's business. Basically, he's saying looks don't matter when you're a terrible person. As if these lyrics didn't make the track stand out enough, the song also features horns, bright piano and popping bass that helps bring everything together for an ultimate, classy, banger of a diss track. Losin' You Sonically standing out from the crowd, we have "Losin' You" which takes more of Western, Country / Folk approach within it's soundscape. With heavy emphasis on acoustic guitar, twangy bass and gentle synths, this song has an old-southern feel that really brings a chill to your bones. What I got out of the lyrics of this song, was just being with the wrong person. For a while, you were in denial about it, but it's finally clear now that things were never meant to be. This is a stand out track to me because of it's Western themes and is another song I feel belongs in a movie. Hey Hey Hey "Hey Hey Hey" is a short and sweet, but vibey song. Heavy on the synths, it has a soulful and classic RnB type of influence to it's soundscape and groove. It features a deep bass, and an ear-worm guitar riff that repeats throughout the song. It almost feels lie a song that belongs in a secret agent, detective or classic mobster movie. It's dark and eerie, yet sensual. It starts with the story of when you meet someone, you think things are going well. You have a spark, feelings are arising.... and then in the second half, a switch flips. All those good feelings have now turned to uncertainty and pain. Somewhere In Albany "Somewhere In Albany" seems to be about knowing that you're not in the right place - physically, emotionally, and within your life. You don't know where you're going; all you know is that you can't stay here . The song starts with banjo, and you feel like it's about to be a laid back mountain folk song - but you just wait. Shane comes in with layered, emotionally distorted and synthesized vocals. Then come in drums, and those 60's RnB keys that we heard in track one, "All The Scars", but they're echoing in a cathartic rhythm throughout this song on just one note. Then we can hear bass, strings, and then piano comes in... it's a symphony of a unique blend of sounds that you would never guess would fit together; but they do, so perfectly. Long Road "Long Road" is when you're left stuck with no idea what to do next after a long, painful relationship is finally over. Shane describes literally feeling like he's standing at the end of a long empty road, with no idea where to go. This song also has a unique mixture of sounds. It made me feel like I was at the club, at a rave, and at a rock concert all at the same time. The groovy guitar and popping bass, mixed with the pulsing synths and high energy tempo call for an experience that will blow your mind. Not the mention the super cool xylophone moment as the song starts to come to a close. Shane's voice and the fast-paced melody once again reminded me of Jason Mraz in this one, and the overall vibe made me think of "Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye as well. Where I'm At... Closing out the album, we have the song "Where I'm At..." which I see as a message from Shane to everyone out there about where he stands now within this story we've just experienced. He sings, "'Cause I could lie to you if I had to, but really what's the point in that / Life's too short and all I know is this is where I'm at // Oh, I do not remember who I once was". The way I'm interpreting this, is that things are still raw and they still hurt, but he's working his way through them because he knows that life is too short to be wasting it away on being sad and lonely. "Where I'm At" features gorgeous piano and ethereal background synths, and is the perfect, most beautiful and honest track to end this album and this chapter of Shane's life. Listening to the "Irrational" album feelings like reading a novel, and each track is a chapter in the book. Each song flows together perfectly, and connects to create this cohesive story. You don't realize it when you first start listening, but you start connecting all the puzzle pieces together after several tracks. I think Shane Rennison is an incredible storyteller and puts raw, honest emotion into everything he does. Coming together with Julian Giaimo to bring these stories to life was brilliant - they have a creative chemistry that is so clear in this album. Every song stands out in it's own unique way - not one sounds like any other, but yet they still connect to each other perfectly within their lyrics and stories. I think they really outdid themselves on this one and it deserves way more attention than what it is getting! Make sure to follow Shane below, and stream "Irrational" now on all streaming platforms! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW SHANE: 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.

  • Review: "to my younger self (Roses)" - Alexa Kate

    Alexa Kate wears her heart on her sleeve with this inwardly reflective single showcasing love, care, and empathy for your past self. Oftentimes, our inward journey to self-love does not come into fruition until we evolve with our accomplishments. In the glowing stage lights and resounding recognition for our talents, it is easy to remember how far you used to be from your current state. There was once a time where self-doubt and cruel voices overtook your mental wellbeing. It was easier to rely on bolstering disapproval from others than it was to think positively about your future. How could you foresee that your wishes would come true when they were so far out of reach? As you embrace the voices cheering you on, and how surreal they seem to be, you cannot help but to wish you could always feel this joy. If only you could craft a loving letter to your younger self which tells them how happy they would be. Those self-deprecating and depressive feelings that once overwhelmed you had no place in your life. The unparalleled happiness you have from finally receiving your well-deserved recognition is something you deserved to feel at all stages of your life. You have come to realize that you deserved roses at your lowest point as well as at your highest. “To my younger self (Roses)” is an indie pop anthem that serves as its own individual story and a connecting part of a larger narrative. Alexa Kate released this single as a part of her debut EP, “wishing you well”. This larger body of work explores the introspective journey that can derive from letting go of someone who was once vital to you. While navigating this bittersweet period of moving on, other self-reflective emotions can be formed and make you look inward rather than out. Part of healing and growing from a painful experience is viewing your past self in a new light. The self-hatred you once carried so close to your heart is washed away with your new experiences. This single serves as an individual yet necessary aspect of the narrator’s personal evolution. Sometimes the only way to move forward is to accept yourself at all stages of your life. Alexa Kate is a singer-songwriter currently based in New York. Kate has traveled across the country in order to have better methods to perfect her musical craft. She has studied in New York, Nashville and Los Angeles. Her primary musical inspirations are artists such as Taylor Swift , Gracie Abrams , and Tate McRae . She has curated an engaging presence on social media through sites such as Instagram and Tiktok. Her almost daily Tiktok lives regularly engage followers and solidify her online presence. She incorporates her own life experiences into her lyricism and gives each song her personal touch. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “to my younger self (Roses)” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW ALEXA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

  • Review: "Options" - JJ Wilde

    "Options" by JJ Wilde is a rock song in which the singer rejects the advances of a former partner because she is able to be loved by other people instead, and has no need to return to them. She prefers and believes it would be better to be on her own, but she knows she can be with new people and not go back to her past relationship. Wilde's ex-partner tries to reignite what they once had, but due to their possible infidelity, and that Wilde wants to move on so she can get over them, she chooses not to fall for them again, noting she can be in a relationship with someone else. However, Wilde also does not want to have a short fling, and instead of pursuing those who want to be with her, she declares it is ultimately best for her to not go out with anyone until she find a serious relationship. She doesn't want to use someone and she doesn't want to be used in return. Going back to her ex partner will only reintroduce toxicity into her life, so she knows she is able to avoid this, as well as overcome any desires she has for having a fling, by avoiding romance for the time being. She recognizes neither choice will be healthy for her, and while Wilde seems to go back and forth with her decision-making, adding a quiet "maybe" in between lines on the second verse, she knows what she wants to do. The verses are acoustic, while the other parts of "Options" are fuller with loud drums and electric guitar chords. Acoustic and electric guitars are combined in the production of this track, woven together to create a strong sound. There is also a short guitar solo before the bridge, where the song's flow changes. Wilde has a sultry singing voice, mostly deep throughout but becomes softer at certain points, usually at the end of lines and in the background vocals, fueling the rick rock sound she is going for and amazingly is able to achieve and replicate. When you listen to a rock song, you hope for there to be a show-stopping and stellar performance by an excellent guitarist that will make you want to buy the artist's concert tickets and scream your heart out to all the lyrics at their shows, which Wilde perfectly delivers; she also simultaneously blurs the lines between different styles of the genre effortlessly. The drums remain persistent throughout the song, keeping it interesting and letting you know it was made by playing real instruments and not fully engineered with a computer, which is what rock music has always truly been. The song doesn't feel empty or that it's missing something because the melody and chords are original, the production was well thought-out and not repetitive or unnatural-sounding, and Wilde has a singing voice that makes her a true rock musician. JJ Wilde makes rock music that is very popular and music record-breaking in Canada, topping multiple of the country's charts, including her award-winning and first album Ruthless . She is originally from Ontario, Canada, and now currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee. Other popular songs from her include "The Rush", "Takes Me Back", and "Hands". In addition to this, she and the Canadian-based band The Glorious Sons ' Brett Emmons have released an Amazon Original cover of "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" by Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers . She is to embark on her All My Vices Tour in North America, beginning in autumn. She has toured in the past as well, where she played music from her previous work, Ruthless and her EPs. She has also been an opener for the band KISS on their final tour and toured with The Glorious Sons. Options is featured on her upcoming album, Vices , to be released September 20, 2024. On her YouTube channel, she has a series called Cocktail And A Cover , originally titled Coffee & A Cover , where she mixes drinks and covers songs from different artists. Her love for making music started at a young age, and she began her music career doing open mics, which is when she was discovered at the campus bar of the college she attended, marking this as the start of her successful journey. She has very much made a name for herself in the rock genre, putting in many years of hard work and effort into her discography and craft. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW JJ WILDE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

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