Image: Atlantic Records BRAT is Charli XCX’s sixth studio album. Following the massive success of her last album  Crash and her single “Speed Drive” for the Barbie movie, the record continues Charli’s streak of connect with audiences through her pop sensibilities and songwriting genius. TRACK LIST: 360 Club classics Sympathy is a knife I might say something stupid Talk talk Von dutch Everything is romantic Rewind So I Girl, so confusing Apple B2b Mean girls I think about it all the time 365 Charli XCX has always been ahead of the curve. She first broke out into the mainstream with her smash hit “Boom Clap” from her second album, “SUCKER,” in 2014. However, Charli’s career quickly took a new direction in 2016 with the release of her now iconic Vroom Vroom EP, produced by the PC Music label. It was an entirely new sound that shifted Charli's career entirely. From there, her projects focused on experimental and electronic pop. Her use of autotune and unusual song structures have become signatures in her works, as Charli has become a face for the ever-growing hyper-pop movement. The singer-songwriter’s last album, Crash from 2022, took a slightly different approach, focusing more on classic straightforward pop hits. The album was Charli’s most commercially successful, but now, on BRAT, the singer is returning to her PC Music roots with a more vulnerable and mature perspective. BRAT begins with the single "360," a celebratory track about Charli's success and cementing herself as an icon. The singer's influence in the music landscape has been undeniable in recent years, with several of her contemporaries taking inspiration from the singer's hyper-pop sound and party-girl aesthetic, which Charli nods to with cheeky lines like "I'm your favorite reference baby." The track is a deserved victory lap. Charli XCX is an it girl, so it only makes sense to open the album with an it girl anthem and its accompanying video featuring numerous other iconic women like Rachel Sennott and Julia Fox, the latter of whom Charli namedrops on the track. It's a perfect opener that sets the mood for the brattiness to come. In the lead-up to this record, Charli tweeted, "i was born to make dance music..i came from the clubs..xcx6 is the album i've always wanted to make." "Club Classics" epitomizes her rave upbringing. With its warbly pounding beat and repeated "right now" sample, the track is insanely catchy and begging to be danced to, which is fitting considering the song is all about wanting to dance at the club to good music. "Club Classics" is a braggadocious banger, where Charli rightfully asserts her dominance as one of the best in the dance electropop scene right now, as she states, "I wanna dance to me." The lyrics also shout out longtime collaborators AG Cook and HudMo, both of whom worked on the record, as well as late producer SOPHIE, who Charli laters tribute once more in the heartwrenching "So I." "360" and "Club Classics" are confident, fun openers to BRAT, but things quickly take a turn in the song "Sympathy is a knife," which is about intense jealousy towards another woman in the industry. There is a diaristic quality throughout BRAT, with its general lack of rhyme schemes and candid lyricism that is particularly telling within "Sympathy is a knife." Charli's verses about anger and suicidal ideations are brutal in their rawness, and the singer captures intrusive thoughts like few other artists can. This vulnerability carries over into the following record: "I might say something stupid." Despite being a less-than-2-minute interlude, "I might say something stupid" works as a thesis for the whole record. The track sees Charli in the bathroom of a party, wanting to leave because she feels like she doesn't belong. BRAT, as its title suggests, is filled with attitude and cockiness but also a deep insecurity at the root of that behavior. Charli brilliantly flip-flops between the two throughout the album, and "I might say something stupid" is the album's most honest portrayal of the vulnerable side to the party girl brat aesthetic. The following three tracks, "Talk Talk," "Von Dutch," and "Everything is romantic," return to that playful BRAT sound. "Talk Talk," is a cute love song about wanting to pursue someone who only communicates over the phone. The track has a hot pink Y2K aesthetic and the album's catchiest chorus by far with lyrics that don't take themself too seriously; "I followed you to the bathroom, but then I felt crazy," which is, unfortunately, very relatable. "Everything is romantic" is similarly lighthearted, celebrating the beauty in a trashy Italian beach with lyrics about bad tattoos and Jesus billboards. Sonically, these two tracks---espeically the latter--harkens back to the experimental hyper-pop sound Charli is known for on projects like Pop 2 and are some of the most danceable made-for-club records on the LP. The album's lead single, "Von Dutch," is pop perfection. The song's droning beat and repetitious melodic chorus are infectious, and the lyrics overflow with attitude. Dissing an unnamed person, Charli gets the brattiest she does on the record, opening with the brazen "It's okay to just admit that you're jealous of me." It's amazingly petty. The track was a standout single, and sounds even better within the context of the record. From there, Charli again opens a more emotionally vulnerable side of herself on the record. "Rewind" is introspective reflections on life post-fame, as Charli wishes to celebrity status feeds into insecurities about her appearance and commercial success that she used to never care about. The lyrics are a complete 180 from the tracks before it. Charli goes from "It's so obvious I'm your number one" to "I hate these doubts that keep running through my mind" with two songs. The album's dichotomy of brash confidence and internal pain is brilliant. Charli created a batch of songs that play into and reveal the mask behind her party girl persona and somehow made both categories of songs incredibly catchy and danceable. Similarly, "Girl, so confusing" tassels with fame as Charli discusses a tension between her and an unnamed fellow musician who she can't tell if she loves or loathes, lyrically referencing back to "Sympathy is a knife." "Girl so confusing" is the song that has stirred up the most conversation online, as many try to uncover who the song is about, but it truly does not matter because of the universal appeal behind it. Charli captures the difficulty that can foster within women's friendships that does not bash this other woman. Throughout the record, Charli is skilled at balancing her emotions with a keen self-awareness. "So I" is the most powerful and heavy on the record. A tribute to the late producer SOPHIE, who Charli worked with on every project from her Vroom Vroom mixtape in 2016 to her 2020 pandemic album how i'm feeling now, "So I" is an honest look at how regret and grief intertwine. The chorus interpolates SOPHIE's "It's Okay to Cry," as Charli discusses how the producer impacted her music and personality to this day; in the last verse, the singer asks if she "would like this one?" It is so raw it can be challenging to listen through, but it is easily the best song on the record for that very reason. The last batch of songs continues the album's uptempo, dancy sound. "Apple" is an experimental, 80s synth-wave-inspired song about wanting to run away from a person who hurt Charli. The song features a distinctive EDM mid-way breakdown about driving to the airport that is so abstract only a Charli XCX could do it. B2b is another club banger with a fun, repetitive chorus, ala previous Charli hits like "Unlock it." The singer's attitude is also on full display here as she sings, "Maybe you should run back to her." However, the standout track in this latter section is "Mean Girls," a homage to the type of women who worship Lana Del Rey and wear coquette clothes. The track is sassy with a chorus that will absolutely kill in clubs and live performances. Charli opposes her standard electro-pop sound in the chorus with a beautiful and fun jazz piano solo in the bridge. The jazzy sound gives the already New York-based track a New York sound while also making it stand out as one of the most unique moments on the record. The last two tracks continue the overarching duality of BRAT. Other than "Sympathy is a knife," "I think about it all the time" is the song with lyrics that sound most like they're coming from Charli's journal word-for-word. The track is an insight look into motherhood and debating when is the right time to start a family. The verses are not too catchy, but it's intentional; Charli is thinking out loud in this song as she confesses her feelings that many women Charli's age start to consider. While the album closer "365" is just a pure dance music banger. The track is a club-ified remix of "360" which connects the album and gives it a cyclical bow that ties everything together. In one of the best years for pop music in recent memory---seriously, name one major pop artist who hasn't or is planning to release this year--Charli XCX managed to create an album that not only stands out, but rises above as one of the year's best. BRAT feels like an amalgamation of all her previous work that improves upon them in nearly every way. It is honest, interesing, and endlessly catchy and proves itself as one of the best albums---in any genre--of 2024. Written By Lauren Nolan Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

In my opinion, there can be no shortage of feminist anthems, and singer Elle Baez seems to be on the same page. Her recently released single “I Am The Man” is upbeat and fun, and her voice drips with spunk and attitude as she declares herself ‘the man’. With a doo-wop inspired sound, she contrasts the connections usually made with women from this era, by adding a trap beat in the background and more focus on the lyrics than the vocal harmonies. This addition gives the sound her own personal flair, and also highlights the change she is claiming women have gone through- opening their own doors and holding their own hands. This track was written by an all female team, and each line makes this feat all the more clear. Baez’s soulful voice sings lines about doing things that make her feel empowered, such as “I take the trash out / rockin’ lingerie” in the first verse, and in the bridge, where she sings “I bathe in rose petals / That I sent to me / I’m snackin’ on chocolates / I bought ‘em, my treat”. She also sings lines that poke fun at toxic masculinity and stereotypes usually found in gender roles, such as “Watch me stand while I take the piss out of you / Can you be as man as I am?” This track as a whole is a feminine feel good song, with equal parts uplifting and empowering as it is simply fun to listen to. Elle Baez is a Latina singer-songwriter who has been making it her goal to empower women with her music. She has released tracks called “I Love My Body” and “Pretty Insecurities”, which discuss her journey as a woman finding her way in this world while staying body positive and promoting self-love. She has been on the rise performance wise, opening for artists like Bea Miller and Leah Kate. Her vocal sound has been compared to artists like Adele and Kehlani, but her sound is much more pop and fast paced, such as artists like Medhan Trainor and Katy Perry. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more uplifting and feminist music from Elle Baez. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW ELLE BAEZ: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

Rising pop singer Antigoni just released her first single of the year, "Lie Lie." The dance pop anthem chronicles Antigoni's experience trying to rebuild a relationship after the trust has been shattered. She narrates her feelings of betrayal and having her trust taken advantage of by someone that turned out to be disloyal. When the love is still there but the trust is gone, it can be difficult to figure out what steps to take forward. Antigoni expresses this sad sentiment over a fun pop beats. Even if you're not in this complex stage, "Lie Lie" is an exciting track to add to your streaming library. "Lie Lie" is a deep dive into the complex aftermath of Antigoni being betrayed in a relationship. While she wants to forgive this person because she still loves them, she grapples with the hard reality: the trust has been broken repair. This message is driven with lines like "Baby, we ain't felt the same / Ever since you said her name" and "Everything you say, I question / Our reflection's a broken mirror on the floor." If you've ever been cheated on or betrayed in other ways by the person you're dating, these lyrics will likely hit deeply for you. Between bright vocals, infectious pop hooks, and authentic lyricism, Antigoni has crafted a track that is perfect to dance around your room to. Greek singer-songwriter Antigoni began her professional musical journey by signing with Island Records in 2016. She worked with a string of successful songwriters, including Mark Batson and Michael Angelo. Since then, she has amassed over 71,000 monthly listeners on just Spotify. With an energetic dance pop sound similar to artists like Dua Lipa and Shakira, it is no wonder that she has already formed and continues to grow a following. If you enjoyed "Lie Lie," make sure to check out the rest of Antigoni's discography. You can also keep up with all the latest information on Antigoni and her music by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW ANTIGONI: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook | YouTube

As a fan of grim imagery and haunting storylines, I was instantly drawn to Carlina’s latest single. “Dead To Me” shares the tragic ending of a relationship— one that ends in death. Metaphorically. The singer’s former partner is still alive in every literal sense of the word but dead in her mind. The tongue-in-cheek track was written from a place of humor, trying to make light of the somber situation. Throughout the song, the lyrics eulogize the subject, symbolizing the death of the muse. Carlina's clever songwriting shines through in every single one of her releases, but "Dead To Me" has earned its spot at the top of my list. She starts the song with lines that realistically would appear in a eulogy: "He had a way with words// Knew how to make you cry// Would always keep close// Knew how to live his life// And every time you saw// The twinkle in his eye// It almost made you fall." But then she transitions into lyrics that expose the toxicity of the person of honor: "Before you realize// The flowers always fade// He was always late// My mama told me babe// Love shouldn’t cause you pain// But we’re all here today// To celebrate." She then proceeds to the infectious chorus where she proclaims the morbid hook: "He is dead to me." Through her authentic songwriting and ingenious storyline, Carlina effortlessly resonates with listeners while expressing her individual experience. Carlina has a natural talent that leaves her audience in awe of her abilities. From her poetic lyricism to her angelic vocals, the artist is an expert at drawing in fans and keeping them wanting more. "Dead To Me" upholds this tradition by reeling listeners in from the very first note. The song contains the classic R&B-pop blend of the singer, complete with a steady beat and unique synth sounds that effortlessly guide the audience through the song. Furthermore, Carlina's stunning voice mesmerizes listeners, leaving them hanging onto her every word. Throughout the track, the production utilizes multiple techniques to highlight this. From the layered background vocals to the reverb effects, the artist's flawless voice is displayed for the listener's enjoyment. “Dead To Me” is a well-rounded track with unforgettable lyrics and a soothing soundscape, making it one of my favorite tracks of 2024 so far. Carlina is an extra special artist for me. In the two years since I began writing reviews, the talented singer is the first person that I knew before they made their debut. Carlina and I met while we were teenagers, and it has been an absolute pleasure watching her grow as a person and an artist. In 2019, she released her first single and has continued to stun audiences with her incredible tracks. She made massive waves in 2023 when she released her hit single, “Lucky Girl.” The song quickly went viral, garnering over 20 million streams on Spotify alone and more than 200k video-creates on TikTok. “Dead To Me” is the second release of her new era, preparing her listeners for her highly-anticipated debut project. Follow her on all socials to stay up-to-date with any new announcements and releases! Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW CARLINA: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

Drew Schueler's latest single, "This Is Where," is a heartfelt reflection on the milestones of life, experienced from the comforting walls of one's home. Through his lyrics, Schueler crafts a narrative that's not just about physical space but the emotional landscape that it represents. Each verse is carefully woven with evocative imagery, where simple acts like watching football, drinking coffee, or dancing in slippers paint a picture of everyday bliss. Schueler encapsulates the essence of making profound memories in seemingly mundane moments. The lyric "This is where the heat will break in the middle of winter," metaphorically touches upon unexpected warmth and joy found in life's cold phases, creating a relatable journey for the audience. Overall, the song captures the essence of finding grandeur in the granular, encouraging listeners to cherish the small moments that build the bigger picture of their lives. "This Is Where" is elegantly structured, with a measured pace that allows the listener to soak in every lyric and harmony. Schueler utilizes a blend of pop and acoustic influences, creating a sound that is accessible yet emotionally rich. The song progresses smoothly, with a gentle crescendo leading into choruses that lift the spirit without overpowering the listener. His approach to the song’s architecture invites a feeling of introspection and an uplifting mood. Listeners are led through a musical journey that mirrors the everyday ups and downs, the milestones, and the quiet moments. The tone is hopeful and warm, extending an invitation to find joy in the simplicity of life. Drew Schueler, a beacon in the pop music scene, not only shines through his music projects but also lights up the careers of others with his songwriting and production talents. From his humble beginnings to becoming a revered name in the industry, Drew’s journey is one of relentless passion and creativity. In 2023, he clinched the Grand Prize at the Nashville Songwriters Association International Song Contest, a testament to his skill and dedication. His track record spans impressive collaborations and significant milestones, including his song for K-pop star D.O., which amassed over 25 million streams on Spotify alone. His ability to resonate with a diverse audience while maintaining his unique sound is a significant aspect of his growing legacy. Looking ahead, Drew Schueler is set to captivate his fans with the release of his EP titled "Vulnerable for Once." This project promises to reveal deeper layers of his musical and emotional landscape, marking another significant chapter in his evolving artistry. The lead single, "This Is Where," sets a profound precedent for the EP, which is anticipated to be a collection of narratives as personal and relatable as the home-centric tales of his latest release. With his continued rise in the music world, Schueler’s upcoming projects are eagerly awaited by fans and critics alike, promising new sounds and stories that will undoubtedly enrich the contemporary pop music scene. You don’t wanna miss out on the emotional journey Drew Schueler crafts in his latest single, "This Is Where". Give it a listen on Spotify, using the link down below or by watching the official audio video above. this track is not just a song but a heartfelt story set to music. Whether you're painting a new chapter of your life or just needing a musical companion that resonates with real-life experiences, you’ll find yourself hitting repeat. Dive into the sonic world of Drew Schueler and let "This Is Where" soundtrack your own life moments. Be sure to follow Drew Schueler on all of his social media platforms in the links below if you want to continue following his amazing musical journey and stay up to date on his latest releases and upcoming tour dates. Written By CJ Taylor FOLLOW DREW SCHUELER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

“3 Minute Calls” describes the difficulty that can accompany being there for someone struggling with their mental health. As the days pass, you can’t help but notice how little you hear from a certain someone. Despite the closeness between you, your amount of interactions dwindle and dwindle. It is clear to see that they desire being close but they are unable to be at the place they once were. Trying to navigate through these new rules proves challenging and you aren’t sure what to do. They crave even just a few minutes of a phone call, but you crave more than they can currently give. Many people going through their mental issues want to protect their loved ones as much as themselves. You have learned through trial and error that pushing past these new boundaries only drives them further and further away. What you’re fighting so hard for is already gone but it is hard to accept this. The ghost town they leave you in becomes isolating and all you desire is the relationship you once had. Click here to listen to "3 Minute Calls"! “3 Minute Calls” is a contemporary alt pop single that balances impressive lead vocals with a multitude of structural intricacies. The most noticeable aspect of this song is the impressive vocal performance offered by Grace Moore. During the first verse and pre-chorus, her vocals are seemingly growing in intensity. The chorus displays this performance more through increased vibrato and dipping into a higher register. Light vocal stems whispering against the lead vocals add onto the atmospheric experience. These vocal intricacies are most prominent in the bridge/outro as they form their own harmony-filled chorus. Typical folk instrumentals blend seamlessly with a contemporary production. Soft claps accompany the percussive beats and construct a soft musical experience where everything blends together. Grace Moore is a singer-songwriter currently based in London, United Kingdom. She has always been interested in pursuing music and attended LAAMP, the Los Angeles Academy for Artists and Music Production, in Los Angeles, California. At this one-year music program school, Moore was able to work alongside and study under music industry staples such as producer due Stargate. Stargate is known for their work with artists such as Rihanna and Katy Perry. After attending and graduating from LAAMP, she moved to London to begin her career with artist management company Ignition. While working with Ignition, she has released “3 Minute Calls” which is her first single. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “3 Minute Calls” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW GRACE MOORE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok

Broken trust and hidden secrets. The vehement emotions they provoke are incoherent. It’s enough to untether the kind of anger that had been quietly sequestered, tainting our hearts with misconception– muddled with disbelief as we learn the unfortunate and pernicious news that what we once thought was true love was all but a lie. Every single emotion we felt becomes questioned, and we wonder if the relationship that was once burgeoning with adoration and passion was even real, to begin with. We are exposed to acrimonious emotions like rage, disappointment, and despondency upon learning the sick truth we were kept hidden from. We are left utterly betrayed by these abhorrent secrets. “Secrets” by Wendy Wang is a song that describes a similar scenario through indicative lyrics, and an addicting sound that leaves listeners singing along in heartache. This song tells a story of exposed lies told by a former significant other and the despondent emotions we are left with once the facade has ebbed. Wendy Wang manages to portray the raw and harrowing realities of a breakup, utilizing her musical talents as a growing artist. Click here to listen to "Secrets"! With a sound so expressive, lyrics that carry immense weight it’s easy to slip into a trance, getting lost in the strings of the rhythmic electric guitar, the bass that rattles our hearts. While the sound may deliver a rather upbeat setting, the lyrics percolate deeper emotions. The song that is Wendy’s mellifluous voice– it’s what adds the fine touches to such a painful and bitter story with such raw emotions that naturally flow out of the artist’s touching voice, stirring wistful emotions in the listeners. This song captures the unpretentious emotions of a real heartbreak, a sensitive moment in our lives that many people encounter. Wendy was able to capture those emotions so accurately, putting all those hurtful sentiments into a song, expressing the true heartbreak of a noxious love. As I listened to the song, I found myself resonating with such expressive lyrics, tangled in the ravishing sound, unable to deny that I felt my heart resonate with Wendy’s emotive voice. Wendy Wang is a singer and songwriter based in Los Angeles California, largely resonating with sounds like alternative pop, indie rock, soft rock, and pop. Many of her songs include lyrics that tell a deep story, sharing her deepest sentiments with her listeners through the form of a song. Wendy Wang has consistently released songs on all music platforms since the year 2022, and upon the recent release of her single “Secrets”, Wendy performed her first-ever headline show in an intimate cafe! Playing her new song for her listeners. Wendy even released her EP “Sea of Strangers” in March of 2024, including five tracks with profound sounds! Wendy continues to grow as an artist as the years progress, and I can’t wait to hear more of her captivating sound! To keep up with Wendy’s life as an artist and any exciting new updates, follow her socials! Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW WENDY WANG: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

If there were a perfect song to describe a situationship, it would be David Tucker’s latest single “Break It Too.” The song is about being with someone who you realize is not as emotionally invested as you are. The lyrics, “Yeah we fell apart and the hardest part is you were worth falling for // And I’d love to know how’d you get so close and not want something more,” accurately capture the heartache and disappointment of getting close to someone who had no intention of taking things to the next step. Yet, the song is also about self-worth and knowing when to set boundaries. Between the deeply relatable lyrics and the catchy melody, “Break It Too” is a definite pop country hit. This song is one I’m sure that many can relate to. Tucker’s ability to write lyrics that are raw, reflective, and deeply personal remind me of fellow pop country artists Keith Urban and Hunter Hayes. Being vulnerable can be difficult, but in “Break It Too," Tucker really left it all on the table and it paid off. Sonically, the track leans ever slightly into the pop category, but the song’s electrifying guitar that soars throughout adds the country flare that Tucker has become known for. Overall, the artist’s infectious hooks and innate ability to connect with his audience through relatable life experiences, prove to be a winning combination. Pop country singer David Tucker has overcome a lot in his life and has found success and peace on the other side. The Kentucky native spent his early years playing several instruments and performing with his parents and siblings, delivering messages of faith ー a concept that Tucker carries with him to this day. After moving to Nashville in 2017, Tucker began the grind of a budding musician, welding Music City skyscrapers during the day and playing honky-tonks at night. Tucker also worked as a co-writer and producer, making him a jack of all trades. With a few singles and music videos under his belt, the artist began catching the attention of many notable media outlets including CMT, Vevo, and American Songwriter. His catchy, pop country sound and heartfelt songwriting have left people wanting to hear more. Tucker’s latest single “Break It Too” is now available on all music streaming platforms. Written By Giselle Morales FOLLOW DAVID TUCKER: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

The final track of Frankie Bird’s debut album “Twenty Something” is “23”, a melodic and dreamy track that idolizes the days when the world was better, kinder, and painted with pink, rosy hues. The song transforms, though, to realize that revering the past freezes yourself in the present, halting you from ever progressing further into your current life. The age of twenty-three has come and gone, and it’s best to make the most of today– you’ll make new memories, achieve greater milestones, and be happy. Written during the pandemic, “23” echoes especially for those of us who have wanted to disappear back into the past when life felt like it was easier, but have eventually come to know that time only moves forward. It’s important to treasure those old, dreamy days, but to now carve out your life in the present lest you let time stand still. What I was immediately drawn to in “23” were its nods to The Wizard of Oz, and the dreamlike details that Frankie Bird pinpoints from the musical in connecting the song’s narrator to Dorothy herself. To the narrator, imagining being twenty-three again is almost like clicking your heels together, but instead of going back home, you get transported to that age. The beautiful line that accompanies this is, “I close my eyes, it takes me there / Over the rainbow, far somewhere”. These references really heighten that idealistic, starry-eyed feeling that the song encapsulates about the past, doing this markedly through its songwriting. Accompanied by soft strings and gentle vocals, with the occasional piano twinkling in the background, the lyrics are also bolstered by the soundscape to further establish this atmosphere. It’s almost as if the song itself is stuck at twenty-three, along with the narrator. Eventually, this morphs into something grander, newer, and as the instrumentals swell and then relax, you hear the lyrics describe how the narrator is going to make “here and now my home / Cause there’s no place like twenty-nine”. I always love when a track can tell a story through its instrumentals and songwriting, and that’s exactly what “23” does; you’re treated to both its soundscape and writing which illustrates a struggle that many people have faced– becoming trapped in the past– and learning, sonically, that there’s a way to create a home in your current age. American singer-songwriter Frankie Bird– previously known as FRANKIE– was deeply entwined with the music industry, even before she changed her moniker. Pre-pandemic, she toured with artists such as Troye Sivan, Dua Lipa, Charlie Puth, and Daya, but once the pandemic hit, she began her reinvention process. Diverging from her initial pop approach, she reconnected with her roots on her debut album “Twenty Something”. The album is decorated with the highs and lows of her twenties, and all the realizations and lessons of that age. While her debut EP “Dreamstate” released back in 2015, “Twenty Something” was released in 2024. On this album is “23”, its final track. If you enjoyed “23”, I highly encourage you to give the rest of “Twenty Something” a listen, as Frankie Bird soars into this new era of hers. Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW FRANKIE BIRD: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook | YouTube | Website

Photo Credits: Amazon Three years after the release of Scaled And Icy, Twenty One Pilots is back with their seventh studio album, Clancy, expanding upon the extensive world-building fans have seen through the duo's previous work. TRACK LIST: 1. Overcompensate 2. Next Semester 3. Backslide 4. Midwest Indigo 5. Routines In The Night 6. Vignette 7. The Craving (Jenna's Version) 8. Lavish 9. Navigating 10. Snap Back 11. Oldies Station 12. At The Risk Of Feeling Dumb 13. Paladin Strait Formed in 2009, Twenty One Pilots initially consisted of members Tyler Joseph, Nick Thomas, and Chris Salih. The latter two, Thomas and Salih, left the group in 2011, with Josh Dun joining shortly after. Since then, Twenty One Pilots have been a duo with Joseph and Dun masterfully executing their creative vision. Though they enjoyed much success in their early years, the release of Twenty One Pilots' fourth studio album, Blurryface, catapulted the pair into superstardom. The highly successful release earned the pair their first No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 and won them the honors of "Top Rock Album" and "Top Rock Artist" at the 2016 Billboard Music Awards. They have gone on to achieve many accolades as well as develop quite the elaborate story through their music. Something the duo is notorious for, Twenty One Pilots weave plot points and references to their fictional world throughout their studio albums, serving as a parallel representation of Tyler Joseph's personal mental health struggles. Clancy does not break this tradition, telling the tale of the next phase in the group's lore. Following the heavy use of commercial pop sounds on Scaled And Icy, fans find themselves returned to some of the familiar Twenty One Pilots characteristics they know and love on Clancy. "Overcompensate" starts the album off strong, sounding like a track that could've been ripped from Blurryface or Trench. The song starts with a mysterious, haunting piano melody, quickly launching into a synth-laden soundscape. Right from the beginning, Twenty One Pilots immerses fans back into the lore, making references to lyrics from the Trench track, "Bandito," and singing lines like "Welcome back to Trench." Transitioning from the hard-hitting synth-pop/rock vibe of "Overcompensate," "Next Semester" switches things up with a punk inspired sound. The track keeps the momentum going, featuring fast-paced rhythms and pulse-pounding drums. "Backslide" comes next, mellowing Clancy out with chill beats and smooth melodies. Keeping in line with Twenty One Pilots' tradition of mixing genres, the duo tastefully blends elements of hip-hop, rap, and synth-pop throughout the song. "Midwest Indigo" follows with a light-hearted, upbeat sound reminiscent of previous songs like "Hometown" and "Shy Away." One of the catchiest songs on the album, "Routines In The Night" relaxes the pace of the album a bit, balancing Tyler Joseph's mental health battles with a casual, feel-good vibe. The track mixes elements of electro-pop, hip-hop, and commercial pop, being a bridge between the sounds present on Trench and Scaled And Icy. Leaning heavily into the rap and hip-hop influences of the album, "Vignette" and "Lavish" feature several rapped verses from Joseph over a synth-laden backdrop. While "Vignette" doesn't stray too far from the duo's usual sound, "Lavish" was an interesting track to listen to, featuring soft melodies and lush strings that effectively conveyed the idea of a lavish lifestyle. Between those two songs is "The Craving (Jenna's Version)"—a starkly different sounding entry from the rest of Clancy. As a standalone song, "The Craving (Jenna's Version)" is beautiful, featuring a simplistic acoustic soundscape and Joseph's raw vocals. However, in the scheme of the whole album, it's such a shocking contrast to the full instrumentals that it breaks the trance Clancy creates. Moving back to the heavier sounds on the album, Twenty One Pilots seamlessly combines synth-pop with alt-rock in "Navigating." The mental health-centric track shows Joseph grappling with difficult feelings over a background of relentless drums, rapid rhythms, '80s inspired synths, funky bass lines, and scorching guitar riffs. "Snap Back" cools things off again with a laid-back, hip-hop and rap influenced sound. The song's opening motif is reminiscent of Glass Animals' "Dreamland," giving it a playful essence to contrast the darker lyrics. Staying soft and relaxed, "Oldies Station" comes next as a mid-tempo ballad with a positive message. Joseph seems to talk to Twenty One Pilots' younger fans, encouraging them to push through the difficulties of growing up. Quickly contrasting "Oldies Station," "At The Risk Of Feeling Dumb" pivots back to the album's hip-hop influenced sound, bouncing between rapped verses and belted choruses. A nod to the group's previous work, the track spices things up by adding reggae into the mix, giving it a sound reminiscent of songs like "Ride" and "Nico and the Niners." Serving as the conclusion to the album, "Paladin Strait" brings Clancy to a close with foreboding melodies, rich synths, and questions of survival. Possibly hinting at what's to come, the song abruptly cuts off and ends with a deep, slightly creepy voice delivering an equally odd message, stating, "So few, so proud, so emotional/Hello, Clancy." Though not every song on the album will be a hit, Clancy brings fans back to the comfort of the familiar Twenty One Pilots sound so many have grown to adore. The release has been long-awaited since their last studio album and is a satisfying addition to their catalog, leaving everyone hungry for what's next from the eclectic duo. There's plenty to love on the album for the die-hard fan or the casual listener, whether you're here for the lore or simply here for the musical magic Joseph and Dun create. For those looking to immerse themselves further into the story told on Clancy, a playlist to the album's music videos can be found here. Written By Cheyenne Johnson Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

An exciting, refreshing blend of genres in the form of the single ‘One and the Same’ from songwriter & artist Tiffany Johnson has added a flame to the fire of the modern pop music scene. This enthusiastic mix of alternative and pop tells the tale of an interesting and messy romance while making you want to dance. ‘One and the Same opens with the line, “lights up and run through the city,” already wonderfully beginning to paint the picture of the song. Like ‘Green Light’ by Lorde, the line reminds me of being young and eager to explore, to live curiously, etc. As the first verse unravels, details of a tangled but emotional love are told through skilled writing. Johnson uses relatable subjects and descriptions through phrases such as, “happy birthday”, “love & war,” and “what does that say about us?” Implementing this kind of interesting writing, Johnson’s solid vocals, and a catchy beat had me hooked from start to finish. Following the introduction of a beat you want to lend your ear to, Johnson’s vocal and writing styles bring a clear image to mind. You can see a big city with lights you’ve never before taken in. You can feel youth and energy coursing through you, propelling your questions forward and through life. These experiences, so personal yet undeniably relatable in one way or another, can make ‘One and the Same’ part of a multitude of varying playlists. With the intriguing relationship between the song’s swirl of electronic instruments and Johnson’s style-blending voice, you could categorize this song through a multitude of genres that gracefully complement one another. Whether you’re feeling like dancing with your friends, jamming out by yourself, or sitting down and navigating your feelings, Johnson has created the song for the occasion. With energy like bands such as The 1975 and The Band Camino, along with writing capabilities of artists like Taylor Swift and Maggie Rogers, Johnson is an artist to keep in the forefront of your mind. Tiffany Johnson is a songwriter and artist from South Dakota. Recently, Johnson moved to Nashville, Tennessee, also known as the Music City. Although Nashville is primarily known for country music, the city has always opened its arms to all styles and genres of music and continues to do so through welcoming artists like Tiffany Johnson. Johnson’s music has been featured on Spotify playlists such as “New Music Nashville” and “Fresh Finds Pop, and she continues to branch out in the music industry. She may have an obvious gift for the pop and alternative scene, but Johnson also incorporates a country style into her sound. She has opened for current country acts like Chancey Williams as well as country hit-makers such as Gary Allan. In addition, she has been given recognition for her talent through the music festival Tin Pan South, the NSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) organization, etc. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW TIFFANY JOHNSON: Instagram | Spotify | Website| Facebook | YouTube

Happier Songs by Savanna Leigh, paints a vivid picture for the listener of what it means not only to live, but also love as a mature adult. When the music begins we feel the soft yet upbeat melody, it's that which draws us in and prompts us to keep listening. The song dives much deeper and allows us to draw personal connection. One of the key moments within the song that allowed me to understand and relate to it, were the lyrics that said "I've been trying to write happier songs / I've been sad too long / But it's hard when I keep waiting for everything to go wrong." This line makes us draw deeper within ourselves, and recognize that we've all lived a moment when we were afraid to make a decision in fear that it wouldn't work out. These lyrics reflect what it means to mature as an adult, recognizing that there is no one telling you what to do and what not to do. This extends far beyond everyday decisions. It also means, as adults, we choose who we love. The song says "Grown ups don't get summer break / But with you it doesn't feel that way / In the sunshine state / You're my quiet place." This provides comfort for us as the listener, because it means that even if things don't work out the way we want, comfort is within our reach. As soon as the song starts we hear the cool tone it brings. There is a slight upbeat manner, but it is rather soothing. Within the music, you can hear the piano, it is what grounds the piece, and serves as the center of the melody. The piano pairs beautifully with the artists voice. While both the piano and the artist's voice are soft, they also add depth to the lyrics which makes the song even more powerful. Because the piano and the voice work so well together, they help spark feelings of both uncertainty and acceptance. This ties the song together like a perfectly crafted bow on top of a gift. Savanna Leigh isn't a stranger to music. She grew up in an environment heavily involved in both music and production, which allowed her to also explore theater. Savanna Leigh's father was a independent country artist who often traveled to Nashville, Savanna would tag along. Savanna's grandmother also ran a local production company, which gave her the opportunity to be immersed in theater culture. When asked about her love of music she said "I think pop has always been where my voice has fit, and that's the type of music I wanted to do. I just never fully pursued it." Later when she was asked about the creative process of "Happier Songs" she said "Happier Songs was shot in the middle of a field in Nashville. I was with my team that day, having fun. I felt that the visual on the outside appeared happy, but the coloring of me in the black dress created a contrast, reflecting the lyrics of the song." There was no better way to say it. This song offers a tiny glimpse of the big things that Savanna Leigh no doubt has to come. Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Savanna Leigh Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube