Everyone has internal battles that they struggle with. Some battle for a short amount of time, while others find themselves in a constant war that seems both irrevocable and everlasting. When they can’t seem to dig themselves out of the perilous and hollow pit of suffering. When even the help others offer doesn’t seem to mollify the inner battles people face. It’s so easy to stumble into hopeless thoughts– the thoughts that constantly assail us with pessimism and negativity. However, we must remember that even just trying to recover from such delicate emotions is good enough and enough to prove that, despite the negativity, our endeavors will prevail. ‘Triggers’ by Aquafox is a song that describes a similar emotion in the form of a melodious tune. In the song, our artist sings about her fight with addiction and depression, expressing how vicious the cycle of hopelessness becomes. Yet, the singer recognizes her willingness to try and rescue herself regardless of the misery she may feel. A sound that resembles something almost optimistic, however, when the lyrics are ultimately digested, listeners are amazed to learn that such an upbeat song holds lyrics that speak the emotions of someone's silent cries. Although the song has deep meaning, Aquafox has managed to create a sound that is not only raw but also something that can mask in with other songs that listeners can enjoy when they desire a lively sound. To find out that this song carried such vehement lyrics, I couldn’t help but marvel. There aren’t many artists who can tell a story with such deep meaning whilst managing to keep such a buoyant emotion to the song. The lyrics carry meaning, and after I wrote them out for myself, I discovered just how incredibly remarkable the song is. Along with Aquafox and her innately masterful voice, the instruments she played and recorded so beautifully brought vitality to the story, adding a plethora of sentiment to the song. Rachel Perry, or her artist name, Aquafox, is the talented artist behind the song ‘Triggers’. She is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from California, Orange County, resonating with genres like alternative rock, dance-pop, electropop, and indie rock! While it may seem like Rachel has just begun to spread her wings on her musical talents, she has been on the scene for quite some time! Signed under the agency WME at just 15 years old, expressing her love for music since she was a child! Aquafox released her debut single this year titled ‘Party Girl’, and has since released ‘Hurt You’ and ‘Triggers’. The hard work she puts into creating her songs is evident, and I truly cannot wait to hear more of her unique and expressive sound! Follow her socials to keep up with exciting new updates and any new music that may be released in the near future! Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW AQUAFOX: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

“Unholy” offers an introspective look back into a mutually toxic relationship where all your time and effort were once dedicated. There was once a time where every moment of your time was allotted to a relationship that should not have occurred. It seems that at every tumultuous turn, you poured your heart and dedication into a relationship that was never meant to be. You often wonder if the hardship carried alongside you soured the dynamic. There are also times where it is clear that the other person was just as in the wrong as you were. Years were spent on and off again in a relationship that always begged for a concrete end. So little of the dynamic you two once had felt natural and meant to be. As you stew in the aftermath of toxicity, similar hopeful heartaches parasitically latch onto you. One of you would pull away with clear desperation as the other held on with similar fervor. With the once life-consuming relationship past you, all you’re left wondering is if the time and effort you dedicated were wasted. Click here to listen to "unholy"! “Unholy” is a commercial pop anthem that is accompanied by an array of vocal stem additives. A standout aspect of this single is how rarely the lead vocals go without a harmony or distorted vocal. Throughout each chorus, there are vocals surrounding the lead that curate a cohesive array of reverberating vocals. The consistent “oh’s” behind the main vocals almost serve as a separate song alongside the harmonies, but are never out of place. Some of these vocals are from other vocalists besides JANAA. These constant accompanying vocals function as the melodic foundation of this single and make a unique identity for it. The instrumentation is just as reverberated as the vocals and often have slight echoes. The electronics blend with each aspect and make an atmospheric experience. JANAA is a recently debuted singer-songwriter from Austria. She has been fascinated by music from an early age and has always pursued it. As a child, she poured her talent into the piano as well as professional singing lessons. She attended the “Musical Academy Fohnsdorf” in Fohnsdorf, Austria and learned important skills such as dancing and singing. In 2020, she participated in the anniversary season of The Voice of Germany and was able to meet with producer Andreas Wöckinger. This meeting turned into a collaboration to work on JANAA’s musical style and release her first single, “Burn”, in April 2024. She incorporates much of her own life experiences with serious topics such as mental health and discovering your own self-empowerment. She has grown a considerable social media following across the world and continues to build. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “unholy” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW JANAA: Instagram | Spotify

Lauren Presley has released her fourth single of 2024, “Should’ve Dated Your Best Friend”! This dark-pop breakup anthem is all about wanting to get your revenge on your ex. She dives into her regret of getting with the wrong person, yet the track is empowering and inspiring. Lauren starts out the song by admitting she knows the relationship was too good to be true, and she landed flat on her face “on the concrete.” She flipped a coin for heads or tails, but she chose wrong. In the chorus, she lists off all the people she could’ve, or rather should’ve, gotten with: their brother, teacher, and even preacher. Lastly, she thinks of their best friends and says “maybe I should go text him.” Lauren opens up more of the story to explain the breakup, alluding to the fact that her ex cheated on her “for just a few seconds that felt right.” Despite expressing some insecurities and inner-emotions, she wears them proudly on her sleeve to warn the listeners. Lauren Presley is an expert at creating a distinct, dark-pop soundscape. Listeners are immediately introduced to a plucky synth, which is followed by Lauren’s luscious vocals. The moody atmosphere is strengthened by some specially effects wisely placed throughout the song. While the verses sonically stay a bit restricted, she lets loose in the chorus with her soaring vocals and an unrestrained production. Taking inspiration from artists such as Cloudy June, Nessa Barrett, and Sabrina, this song is definitely an interesting and addicting listen to add to all of your pop playlists. Lauren Presley is a singer-songwriter hailing from Redwater, Texas but is currently based in Nashville, Tennessee. Although she can’t cite a specific moment she realized she wanted to pursue music, she’s always had an inkling to do so. With the help and support of her friends and family, she released her first single, “A Little Longer (Featuring Sam Will)”, in 2020, which currently has more than 1 million streams on Spotify and over 5.6 million views on YouTube. Since then, she has consistently released music and has gained significant attention on streaming platforms, which includes placements on Spotify Fresh Finds Pop playlist and Apple Music’s New In Pop playlist. Lauren is only going to get bigger from here, and listeners definitely need to watch out for her future releases. Written By Lauren DiGiovanni FOLLOW LAUREN PRESLEY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

Sheena-Rae's latest track "Don't Let Me Know" pulsates with the giddy electricity of early infatuation, encapsulating the contradictory wish to draw closer to a crush while simultaneously reveling in the distance. Through her pop savvy and urban flair, Sheena-Rae crafts an upbeat anthem that resonates with the excitement of a nascent attraction wrapped in the delicious enigma of uncertainty. Whether it's the lilting lines like "I'm longing for your touch, but please don’t give it up" or the playful assertion "Cause you know that I love the chase," the lyrics dance between the craving for connection and the allure of anticipation, deftly capturing the paradox of wanting to sustain the sweet tension that comes from not quite knowing where one stands. Musically, "Don't Let Me Know" presents an infectious beat that drives the song forward, laced with a pop melody that sticks. Sheena-Rae's vocals are playful yet determined, delivering both sung verses and a cheeky rap section with a dynamic ease that draws the listener in. The production blends classic pop structure with R&B textures and a hint of rap's cadence, creating a sound that's contemporary and radio-ready. The use of bright synths and energetic percussion creates a mood that's both irresistible and vibrant, capturing the essence of its subject matter — the thrilling, sometimes maddening, dynamics of playing it cool with someone who's caught your eye. Sheena-Rae is quickly rising as an artist to watch in the London music scene. Combining the mainstream appeal of pop, the soulful depth of R&B, and the lyrical agility of rap, she delivers tracks that are as reflective as they are catchy. Her magnetic online presence and the relatability of her music have garnered a growing fan base poised for more. Following her previous singles like "Politician" and "Still Won’t Stay," "Don't Let Me Know" stands out as a lighthearted celebration of romantic ambiguity, affirming Sheena-Rae's talent for turning the threads of everyday emotions into compelling musical moments. As the song now takes its turn through streaming platforms, inviting listeners to embrace the joy of the undefined, Sheena-Rae continues to define herself as a multifaceted artist with an ear for what moves her generation. Written by Megan Cao FOLLOW SHEENA-RAE: Instagram   | Spotify  | Website | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Doesn't it seem like the more birthday's you have, the more lonely life gets? The older you get, the less people care about celebrating you. Your parties become smaller, until there aren't any parties at all. Thoughtful gifts turn into cards with a 20 dollar bill inside. Growing up kind of sucks, and it feels like the years just keep passing you by with nothing to show for it. "Birthday Cards" by Emylee Herring is about feeling like you're behind in your life. You keep getting older but your life seems to be stuck. You watch everyone else move on and you don't feel like you're doing enough. This unfortunately is a feeling that a lot of people who are in their young adult years go through. Emylee wrote this song to remind everyone that they're not alone, even if it feels like you are. Emylee has us crying in the club with her brand new single, "Birthday Cards". It's the perfect song for the people out there who dread their birthday. The dark, alternative lo-fi synth-pop soundscape mixes high emotions with a heavy bass. The vibrating rhythm of the synths is mixed with body percussion, giving the instrumentation a more personal touch. If I had to compare the sound to other artists, I'd say it has the vocals and lyricism of Taylor Swift, but sonically reminds me of Billie Eilish. Paired with the single is a fun, not-so-serious music video that was filmed with Emylee's friends. Emylee Herring is a singer/songwriter from Texas who began her musical journey at the young age of seven. Going on to take lessons in voice, guitar and piano, Emylee spent her childhood years writing music and performing. She graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2023 with a bachelor's in songwriting. In 2021, Emylee released her first ever official single, "Puppet" which kick-started her journey as a recording artist. In 2023, she released her second single, "Slasher". "Birthday Cards" is her third official single, which if you enjoyed, you should check out the Sad Girl Version as well! It's a softer, more emotional, piano ballad that really puts emphasis on the vocals and lyrics. Emylee is also a review writer for Pop Passion Blog, as well as a book lover, a classic horror movie fanatic, and she posts vlogs on her YouTube channel. She's only just getting started, so make sure to follow her on her socials below to see what she does next! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW EMYLEE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Website | YouTube

These days, it often feels like we put a strong emphasis on knowing exactly what and who we are, when, in reality, life is a journey filled with self-discovery and navigating our identities. That exploration is simply part of living. And nothing requires more exploration than the pathway to realizing how we are desired by others, and desire in turn. Liang Lawrence’s latest single “Use Me” delves into female sexuality and what it means to feel wanted, sexy, or even just useful in some way, shape, or form. The track is filled with searching, introspective lyrics, splaying out the emotions that come from not knowing who you are that may cause you to instead mold yourself into those around you. But, that might not always be a bad thing– even if you’re still figuring yourself out, you can be comforted by the fact that there is power in exploration, and the discoveries made thereafter. If you like Phoebe Bridgers, Clairo, or any similar female artists in that vein, then “Use Me” is going to be right up your alley. Personally, I love the soft rock and alt pop sound, so when the track began with understated strings and temperate percussion, I was immediately pulled into the world Liang was crafting. The tentative instrumentals remain a constant presence throughout the song’s runtime, with occasional moments in the verses where they are even more subdued, but they always come back to their original mellow tune as the chorus comes back. I really loved how their strength in the chorus painted the narrator’s desire to be useful– usable, really– but nevertheless was still slightly misty and fluid, rather than highly upbeat. It worked phenomenally well alongside the track’s songwriting, which details the narrator’s want to be desirably malleable for other people. As the chorus goes: “Use me, I could be everything that you need.” As much as the song is about being everything and anything for others, it is also illustrative of the roads and unpaved pathways that female sexuality undergoes in the modern day. That tiring yet lingering need to be exactly what someone wants haunts the song, especially evident when the narrator sings, “God, I can’t keep doing this / I’ll play pretend / Give you my best lines”. It’s a back-and-forth of “I can’t do this anymore” and “I’ll do it anyways”, a confusing, zig-zag journey with no clear destination, at least at that moment. Still, there is great power in exploration; this in-between time in your life is just as important as the days when you finally know who you are. Liang does a beautiful job of condensing so many complex feelings into one song, “Use Me” being the synthesis of an exploration of sexuality and identity. Singer-songwriter Liang Lawrence grew up in eight different countries before she was eighteen, which has led her to carve a home everywhere she goes. This fluidity shines brightly through her music, which has gained listeners all over the world. Liang first taught herself to play the guitar while she wrote songs in her bedroom, and from there the initial buds of her musical career were planted. Through her songwriting, she seeks to create stories and paint the, oftentimes, messy emotions that come with daily life. Similar to artists such as Clairo, The Japanese House, beabadoobee, boygenius, and Lizzy McAlpine, her music has that soft yet raw quality that we all know and love from the indie folk and soft rock genres. Her debut single “Santa Cruz” released in 2020, and her debut EP “letters to myself” followed three years later in 2023. “letters to myself” has garnered support from BBC Radio 1 Future Pop and BBC Introducing in the South West, as well as having well over four million streams on Spotify. “Use Me” is Liang’s most recent release. If you enjoyed the song, drop her a follow to keep track of her next projects! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW LIANG LAWRENCE: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook | YouTube

Photo: Night Club via Bandcamp On the Ides of March (commonly known as the 15th), the electronic synth-pop duo Night Club released their fourth studio album, "Masochist." The album contains what fans would consider classic Night Club elements, such as haunting lyrics and dark, moody synth-pop; the rest explores variations that provide exciting possibilities for potential future creative endeavors. The result is a marvelously catchy collection that strikes a delicate and challenging balance - familiarity to keep existing fans satisfied, while incorporating new elements, continually evolving and expanding their talents. "Masochist" explores the darker side of themes such as toxic relationships, breakups, and the trauma that is often inflicted during the fallout. TRACKLIST Gone (Ft. MJ Keenan) Barbwire Kiss Another Side of You Crime Scene Let's Play Revenge The Lunatics (Have Taken Over the Asylum) Pretty Girls Do Ugly Things Fatal Crush Everybody Knows Black December Comprised of members Emily Kavanaugh and Mark Brooks, the Los Angeles band Night Club was formed in 2012, releasing their self-titled debut EP in September that same year. The band's second and third EPs, "Love Casualty" (2013) and "Black Leather Heart" (2014), followed in quick succession. The duo's musical credits include composing the music for Comedy Central's show Moonbeam City and the film Nerdland. LPs "Requiem for Romance" (2016), "Scary World" (2018), and "Die Die Lullaby" (2020). Night Club has also performed alongside bands such as A Perfect Circle, Puscifer, Combichrist, and Rosegarden Funeral Party, to name a few. Track 1 - Gone (Ft. MJ Keenan) Album opener Gone sets the tone for this musical journey, featuring Maynard James Keenan (of Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer notoriety).  The synth progression feels sinister and otherworldly, punctuated by heavy drum hits and a pulsating rhythm. The drama heightens as the music swells; Emily's and Keenan's voices are eerie, menacing, plaited together in a haunting harmony. The song's lyrics depict a mutually assured destruction, a scorched earth policy, becoming irreparably damaged. ‘My heart has stopped bleeding/Can’t feel it/Emptiness lives on/My heart has stopped bleeding/Don’t need it/Everything is/Gone, gone, all gone…’  This tune entrances the listener and prepares them for what lies ahead. Track 2 - Barbwire Kiss Barbwire Kiss is both mesmerizing and hypnotic, coming in second on the tracklist and the second (and final) album single. Additionally, the music video for the tune was directed by none other than Mr. Dark Mark Brooks, featuring choreography from Youlmae Kim and Neil Schwartz. The track incorporates thundering drums, an immersive synth, and an infectious refrain, creating an undeniably addictive earworm. Poetic lyrics are flawlessly delivered by Emily's enticing vocals: ‘Kiss me underneath the blood sky/I don’t even know you/You won’t let me free/Placed inside your isolation/Don’t want to escape it/Throw away the key...' This track helps to emphasize and solidify the album's pervading dark theme. Track 3 - Another Side of You The album's third track takes a minimalistic approach, featuring a simplified beat and a throbbing, entrancing bassline, accented with sparkling highlights provided via keys. The stripped-down presentation offers a more intimate tone that nicely showcases Emily's vocal talents and range. Lyrically, the song feels predatory, sultry, seductive, and enticing. ‘I dare you/I will take you to a place where you can’t hide/I won’t share you/I will show you that/My taste for you is haunting/Got me wanting/Another side of you...'.  Additionally, the singer's spoken phrases, ‘I dare you’ and ‘Show me’, are particularly satisfying ASMR-esque additions that provide an auditory finishing touch. Track 4 - Crime Scene Crime Scene, the album's first single, is an excellent representation of this collection. Featuring a heavy electronic melody, the song delivers an infectiously catchy and dark atmosphere. The mood here is mournful, dramatic, and spooky, emphasized by melancholy and somber key accents. The tune's spooky ambiance is enhanced by Emily's layered vocals and the explosive, punchy energy of the chorus, slightly reminiscent of a horror film's jump scare. The lyrics are classic Night Club, featuring macabre concepts and a darkly intense Gothic vibe. ‘Was it random/Like a phantom/Waiting in the shadows after dark/Thought I locked it/Couldn’t stop it/When I felt the pain inside my heart.’ The tune is supported by a music video that is rich with symbolic imagery. Watch it, and see what speaks to you! Track 5 - Let's Play Revenge! With a funky disco vibe and the faintest hint of mainstream pop, Let's Play Revenge is an invitingly seductive tune that packs a sensual bite. The vocal effects deepen the tone of Emily's answering lines at the start, which contrasts pleasingly against the crystalline notes of the keys. Lyrically, the tune embodies a huntress attitude, that of a feline mercilessly toying with its prey, unhurried and biding her time. ‘I got it bad, bad, bad/You know you better watch your back, back, back/I play it dirty/Yeah your sins got you runnin’/And now the end is comin’/Let’s play (let’s play)/Revenge (revenge)/Come close pretty thing get what you deserve/Taste the ashes of everything you burned...' Track 6 - The Lunatics (Have Taken Over the Asylum) The album's sixth offering sees the duo covering The Fun Boy Three's 1982 hit, The Lunatics (Have Taken Over the Asylum). This rendition primarily remains faithful to the original while simultaneously incorporating elements that make it feel instantly familiar as a Night Club tune. The result is an utterly delightful, darkly whimsical, and topsy-turvy with an almost Addams family-type feel. Featuring the vocal stylings of the Las Vegas Mass Choir for the deeply resonant hook, Emily's higher vocals pack a sinister punch. Written during the Cold War Era and the Reagan years, the uncertainties and fears of the time are captured in the lyrics - ‘Go nuclear, the cowboy told us/And who am I to disagree/Cause when the madman flips the switch/The nuclear will go for me...' Track 7 - Pretty Girls Do Ugly Things Sporting a vibe reminiscent of Lady Gaga, the album's seventh track is an energetically punchy tune. The music starts with dramatically theatric piano, eventually giving way to infectiously catchy, dark synth tones. Emily's vocals showcase sinister lyrics that effortlessly glide off the tongue, much like a malevolent sorceress feverishly breathing life into an incantation - ‘Cut you like a razorblade/Play you like a masquerade/Suicidal hand grenade/She’s to die for/Hunt you like a criminal/Eat you like an animal/Homicidal cannibal/Do you want more?’  And these, ‘Burn you like an effigy/Swallow you like ecstasy/Narcissistic fantasy/She’s to die for/Smoke you like a cigarette/Choke you like a lariat/Fatalistic tourniquet/Do you want more...' Track 8 - Fatal Crush This delightful number is reminiscent of Can't Get You Out of My Head by Kylie Minogue, making it an excellent dance-along tune (as are most of the tracks, to be fair). A peppy, contagious beat punctuated by staccato synth and various additional sound effects contrasts nicely against the more somber and perhaps melancholy vocals. The lyrics here speak to the knowledge that one is entrenched in a cycle of dysfunction; much like a struggling addict, they have not only failed to extricate themselves from the situation, but they have become helplessly addicted to the chaos - ‘I’ve been waiting for you/My strange heart needs so much more of you/More of you, more of you, more of you/Now my desire’s not enough/I’m getting higher, burning up/You’re like a fire I’m dying to touch/A fatal crush...' Track 9 - Everybody Knows A pulsing, disco-inspired bassline, dark, moody synth, and the anguish in Emily's vocals deliver a broody, sorrowful track. The sensation of anxiety, coupled with the fear of having one's most profound secrets exposed, is tangible, punctuated by a rhythm mimicking an increased heart rate. There is a haunting sense of despair entwined throughout the vocal lamentations and the song's lyrics - ‘I've become a ghost of me/Haunted by anxiety/Everybody knows/And everybody knows/It's made a host of me/A living cemetery/...Can you feel their spell/Secrets that they tell/Feeling so unwell again/Can you call someone? Emergency/There's something fucked up inside of me/I want to report a casualty...' Track 10 - Black December The final track is a marked departure from the synth-driven, heavily electro-influenced theme throughout the rest of the album. A stripped-down ballad comprised of delicate piano and orchestral nods, this offering showcases the poignant vulnerability of Emily's vocals. Her voice, laden with sorrow and regret as she relives this agonizing experience, is hauntingly beautiful. ‘You said/See you again when/Spring can hide our shadowed ground/Still see my shadow now/And it’s getting older/Alone/With only memories/Of a king who lost his crown/Dethroned/Ruling a part of me/Buried underground...' "Masochist" is an album that is not only unafraid of taking a deep dive into darkness and all its facets but is then elevated by the duo's talents and artistry, resulting in an auditory treasure trove of catchy, relatable songs. If you have yet to listen to it, you are doing yourself a disservice. Check out their YouTube channel - Night Club has amazing, darkly imaginative videos rich in symbology and hidden details. Although the duo just concluded their "Masochist" tour with Rosegarden Funeral Party on the 19th, you can keep up to date on all the latest by following them on social media. Written By Vanessa Siebrass Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Copyright not intended. Fair Use Act, Section 107.

Let’s take a look at Sara Ángel’s brand new enchanting single entitled, “The Script.” The entire track plays on the metaphor of a previous relationship to a written story or “script.” As a result, many lyrics contain layered figures of speech. For example, one of the first lines of the song reads as follows, “Did you simply replace the character played by me by hers truly?” Here, Sara not only integrates the metaphor of the song seamlessly, but explains her role has been filled by someone else without much thought or consideration. Sara Ángel herself had this to say about the meaning of the track, “This song is about seeing the special moments you created in your past relationship being recreated with someone new, post breakup.” Comprehensively, the entire song does an excellent job of displaying its themes of conditional love and disposability inside succinct and well-written lyrics. Another great example of this is the following line, "I wonder if she knows how the story goes." These words directly address the next victim of "The Script." Consequently, many listeners will be able to relate to the disheartening feelings Sara is grappling with in “The Script.” The emotional tone of the song carries a mixture of sadness and reflection. This is as a result of the evocative piano instrumentals and passionately smooth vocals of Sara Ángel. The drums on “The Script” become increasingly more prevalent as the track meets its crescendo. Perhaps this could also be mimicking the feelings of frustration she felt throughout the relationship which the song concerns. The drums work to dramatize the music; this choice fits perfectly with the consistent use of a metaphor to plays or scripts. Although, one thing to take away from this review is Sara Ángel’s fantastic voice. It definitely elevates the track to another level. Sara Ángel’s impressive bilingual discography showcases her vocals in both Spanish and English. Her music catalog is filled with lots of hits with some of her most successful being “Might sound Crazy” and “Creo Que Voy A Llorar.” Sara has accumulated an impressive 5k monthly Spotify listeners and 23k Youtube subscribers. As stated previously, her vocals are truly something special and it certainly won’t be surprising to see her continue to gain traction in the music industry. If you listened to “The Script” and are as impressed as I am, use the links below to follow Sara Ángel on all of her social media. Hitting that follow button ensures you will stay up to date with her latest releases and don’t forget, your support helps artists continue to create the music you love! Written By Casey Hascup FOLLOW SARA: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube

The first words we hear are “Blame my brain, don’t blame me.” Nette’s “Blame My Brain” is a fun way of detaching your actions from yourself/body. It was my brain, not me. I can’t control the thing. Nette also proclaims “Maybe it’s how I was raised.” The grand old “nature vs nurture” argument. Nette implores her love interest to see past her actions and try to understand that her habits that she has are written into her DNA at this point in her life. It’s not necessarily a reflection of how she feels about her love, but how she processes love or even the prospect of it. It’s a sad tale of unhealed past traumas rearing their head and affecting her future. “It’s ingrained, I can’t change. It’s instinctual.” Nette is fully convinced that she is set in her ways atop a killer beat and instrumental. It makes the listener want to dance but also makes us question why she feels this way. She speculates throughout the chorus - “Maybe it’s how I was raised or how I dealt with the pain.” So, we get a glimpse into the cause of this feeling of hopelessness and despair. Regarding the inspiration behind the song, Nette has stated “If you ever thought you might be a little dysfunctional - don't worry it's not you! It's your brain! Blame My Brain was written and produced by Nette and The Renaissance and is a fun, sparkly swiftie-inspired pop jam about our silly brains.” Relationships are a tricky venture to embark upon but can be well worth it with the right person. Perhaps Nette feels she has found that right person but recognizes that she still has some work to do herself to also be the right person for them. So, while it can be seen as self-deprecating, these lyrics can also be seen as therapeutic, Nette is realizing a problem and that’s the first step to recovery. Perhaps, this was her first step in the right direction towards healing her inner child that dealt with the pain the only way they knew how. This song can be seen as Nette’s way of asking her love to be patient with her, to look beyond the surface of her wayward actions and see who she really is, underneath it all. There are so many ways to broach this subject and Nette leaves the door open for any and all interpretations with the lyrics as well as the music behind this banger. Nette is a singer, songwriter, and producer whose career blossomed in Vancouver, Canada amidst her receiving listening ears thanks to her quirky storytelling and impeccable vocals. Nette has described herself as someone who writes and produces “cute little pop songs.” Her musical style is most often associated with mainstream pop music that is energetic as well as moody. Nette’s songs are described as covering a wide array of subjects such as self-discovery, self-doubt, and the all too familiar personal struggles. Nette describes herself as a girls’ girl and has been breaking into the music scene as both a producer and singer since 2021. Nette’s online presence boasts hundreds of thousands of followers across Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Tik Tok, and YouTube. If you don’t mind blaming Nette’s brain for this banger and want to hear more from her brain, follow her at the socials below! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW NETTE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

"I Think It's You," Shane Rennison's latest indie pop-rock offering, rings with an emotional clarity that slices through the heart of a complex narrative, a song that unravels the tangled yarn of introspection that often accompanies the tail end of romantic relationships. Rennison, in his vivid storytelling, confronts the gut-wrenching realization that sometimes the source of disharmony isn't a reflection on oneself but lies in the imperfections of one's partner. Verses laden with poignant elegance and relatable scenarios depict the soul-searching journey after relentless, albeit fruitless, attempts at mending "what's broken," leaving one ensnared in the throes of acceptance. It's a song that evokes the universal experience of grappling with the intricacies of love, marked by an epiphany that becomes both the closing of a chapter and the start of a path paved with resilience. The sonic landscape of "I Think It's You" transports the listener into the core of Rennison's artistic vision—a seamless blend of indie rock rawness and the slick, engaging pulse of hip-hop rhythms. The music cascades from gentle guitar melodies into a robust orchestration of drums and synths, each layer conveying the mood of contemplative fortitude. Rennison’s voice, a rich instrument in itself, displays a malleable range that shifts from vulnerable to potent, infusing each lyric with impassioned authenticity. The instrumental palette and Shane's vocal performance conspire to evoke feelings that range from somber reflection to a spirited resolve, capturing the essence of confrontation and the charged calm that follows the storm of realization. Shane Rennison carries the verdant beauty of the Catskills with him, channeling the soulful energy of his Upstate New York roots into his music. His genre, an alchemy of indie pop-rock imbued with elements of hip-hop, reveals a versatility that only serves to underscore the breadth of his talent. With a foundation built upon diverse influences, his original songs and renditions of eclectic covers showcase not just a musician, but a storyteller whose journey began with the strum of a guitar and the beat of a drum. As he primes his fans for the release of his upcoming album, 'IRRATIONAL,' set to drop on June 28th, 2024, Rennison stands poised to unfurl a wealth of new tracks that promise to both stir the soul and raise the spirit, continuing to build upon his catalog of authentic and stirring musical narratives. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW SHANE: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Brand new dark alt. pop artist from California, Kristina Rossi, has taken the next big step in her music career by releasing her debut EP, "Rings of Saturn". Kristina broke into the scene a few months ago when she released her first ever single, "Borderline" which jumpstarted the anticipation for this new EP. Going on to release 2 more singles, "Off Limits" and "Think About You" just in the span of a couple months, Kristina has already managed to gain thousands of streams across all platforms. Featuring two never heard before tracks, "Rings of Saturn" is just the beginning for Kristina Rossi. TRACKLIST Rings of Saturn Think About You Bittersweet Off Limits Borderline Rings of Saturn Opening up the EP, we have the title track "Rings of Saturn". It's meant to be a short introduction for what is yet to come for the rest of the project. "Rings of Saturn" is impressively self-produced, and is about stepping into your main character era where you put yourself first and follow your passions, regardless of how others feel about it. However, transitioning into that mind set is still accompanied with fear and insecurity. This track may be short, but it raises the bar and gets you pumped for the rest of the EP due to it's high-energy, EDM production and electro-pop soundscape. Think About You "Think About You" was the third single released and the last stand alone track in anticipation for the EP! "Think About You" is about those post-breakup thoughts where even though your relationship is over, you still find yourself thinking about them and what could've been. Some you also wonder if they ever think about you too, even though they broke your heart; And all though they're still stuck in your mind, you know deep down that they're not good for you and it would've never worked out. "Think About You" is a catchy, radio worthy track that blends styles of pop, RnB and EDM. Towards the end of the song, the groove shifts into a fist-pumping beat; perfect for that "crying in the club" type of night where you need to dance out your emotions. Bittersweet Considered the focus track of the EP and one of the two never heard before songs, "Bittersweet" is about those types of manipulative relationships where a person is really good at masking their toxic behavior behind false positivity. When you think of the word bittersweet, you usually think of something you can still find some good in; but Kristina uses plays on words, singing about how she can't be fooled by the fake niceness. No matter how much sweetness this person tries to portray, they'll always be bitter underneath. You can sugarcoat them, pour honey on them, add a little artificial sweetener to them and it still wouldn't be enough to cover up who they truly are. The song was co-written by Kristina with Miriam Kristoffersen and Peter Von Arbin. With their artistic chemistry, they put together relatable, vulnerable and emotional lyrics to accompany the dark and haunting electro soundscapes and production. Off Limits "Off Limits" is the second single, not only off of the EP but ever in Kristina's discography so far! This track is a dreamy pop bop about having feelings for someone that you can't have, particularly someone you're close friends with, due to them already being in a relationship. That person may even have feelings for you too, but you keep them off limits because you don't want to be that kind of person who crosses the wrong line. So you're asking yourself, why do they continue to be with someone else when they know they should be with you? With a hip-hop feel to it's beat and hazy synths, "Off Limits" is already a fan favorite and Kristina's most streamed song due to the attention it got from Fletcher fans on TikTok and it's spot on Spotify's editoral playlist, Goosebumps. We wrote a full, in-depth review on "Off Limits" which you can read here! Borderline Kristina's debut single, "Borderline" serves as the closing track of the "Rings of Saturn" EP. "Borderline" concludes the main theme of the EP, which is breaking out of toxic situations and realizing your worth. It's an anthem of empowerment, knowing that you're right on the edge of breaking free from someone who is not good for you anymore. "Borderline" features gentle, soft vocals and poetic lyrics that flow stunningly through the dark electro-pop soundscape. This song was completely self-written and produced by Kristina, really showing off her talents as an individual. We wrote a full, in-depth review on "Borderline" which you can read here! Kristina Rossi isn't playing any games. She's stepping out into the music world and claiming the spotlight as her own. From debuting as an artist to releasing a 5-track EP within just a few months, Kristina has already made an impact on pop music fans with her cathartic production style and emotionally relatable lyricism. "Rings of Saturn" is such a strong, empowering project and is a great start to what is yet to come for Kristina. When speaking about the EP, Kristina expressed, "I want my music to be a catalyst for others to step into the spotlight - we all have a story worth telling, and this project is a reminder that it's never too late to be the main character". Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW KRISTINA: Instagram | Website | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

Madeleine Rauch opens up on her latest single, Something Real , delving into the anxiety and self-doubt encountered when taking a leap in pursuit of chasing your dream. The "celestial RnB" track is based on Madeleine's own experiences as an artist in the world of music and harps on the importance of pursuing your passion despite the obstacles laid forth before you. Rauch's raspy vocals encapsulate the entire aura of this ditty as she sings out "Something real, Something that frees my mind and makes me feel, Something that breaks the spell and makes me feel" – exemplifying the catharsis that stems from pursuing a personal passion. Something Real was released on Jashua Tree Records and is available now on all streaming platforms – make sure to keep an eye out for the music video, which should be dropping any day now. The introduction to Something Real opens with clean guitar and synth pads, before drums chime in following the commencement of the first chorus. Ultimately, the track's instrumentation is rudimentarily very RnB, with classic trap hi-hats hitting in the second verse to add a nice modern touch to the vibe of the song. Madeleine's vocals are tastefully stacked together on the hooks, keeping the listener engaged to the point of wanting to sing along with every word. Rauch adds vocal runs and ad-libs as the song goes on to fill out the vocal arrangement, before a fading chill synth closes out the outro to the tune. In summation, Something Real is downtempo with smooth production that leaves plenty of space for Madeleine's voice to take center. Madeleine Rauch is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter known for her iconic booming vocals and RnB-inspired harmonies. Rauch cites Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin H.E.R., Snoh Aalegra, and Nao as some of the biggest influences on her current sound. Born and raised in Germany, Madeleine's musical journey started at the age of five when she began singing in her children's church choir – thanks to being inspired by the late, great Michael Jackson. These days, Madeleine has a Golden Record Award under her belt and can be found playing arena tours with the likes of Miss Platnum and Marteria, and performing at some of Europe's biggest festivals – including, Lollapalooza, Sziget, Hurricane, and Rock im Park. Her singles Obsessed and Far Away have already garnered close to half a million views on YouTube, along with critical acclaim from The Word is Bond and LeFutureWave. Rauch also sings under the alias Maraux, where she has collaborated with producers IMKK and Arpad on the single When You Look At Me , which has accumulated over two million streams on Spotify, alone. Written By Dan Caddigan FOLLOW MADELEINE RAUCH: Instagram | Spotify  | Website  | Facebook  | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator