Being in a relationship comes with many ups and downs. Sometimes you thrive in your relationship, it's a safe place between you and your partner. Other times that safe space can be corrupted by the prying eyes of the judgmental outside world. From first-hand experience, I know it can be hard to hide your true self from the world. The looks and the judgment can become overwhelming and before you gain the courage to stand up it can all be too much. But finding that safe space where you can escape judgment and just be free to love is more important than anything. Just in time for spooky season Candace Sosa dropped a hauntingly beautiful banger, River. River is a track with tons of personality. With its lyrics adding a cinematic aspect to its already bustling instrumental, it's an enjoyable listen. Images of dark wooded areas and lovers running through the night come into focus with each listen. The track has a sense of urgency to it with its fast-paced beats and lyrics of escaping with your partner. The image of fighting for what you believe in comes into full focus as you allow the music to take hold. River is filled with relatable lyrics and explosive instrumentals. This booming, almost mind-bendingly spooky dance-pop production mixed with a taste of Candace’s controlled vocals makes for an incredible listen. Candace Sosa is an incredibly talented person. Though she’s from Michigan, she is currently building her empire in Los Angeles. From songwriting to producing she's a powerhouse in all of it. She has her amazing music of course but also shares her songwriting abilities with others. Candace has a habit of writing hits, whether she's writing for BTS or TXT she always makes a splash with her writing. She also has incredible vocal capabilities that pull the whole thing together. Candace Sosa is a triple threat and I can’t wait to see what she does next. Written By Kaiana Lee FOLLOW CANDACE SOSA:

In Casey Austin Allen’s new song, “Lost in My Mind,” he goes into an in-depth exploration of trying to find yourself in times of struggle. It is deeply emotional and it is clear that Allen put a lot of himself in it. He really puts his vocal abilities to the test in this song, but the end result is worth it as it’s a great performance on his end. There is an interesting haunting nature to the track, where it feels like this song has a darker tone to it. What also makes the song interesting is the buildup and then the eventual explosion of emotion at the end. The harmonies towards the end also really sell the emotional vulnerability. Overall, “Lost in My Mind” is a great track and it really shows what kind of artist Casey Austin Allen is. There is a unique sound effect in the introduction of the song that has an eerie style to it that is reminiscent of horror films. While there is a great tragedy presented in the lyrics in the beginning, there is still some resistance to it Allen presents, and it shows that he’s trying to fight his struggles. The main melody really does get stuck in your head. The buildup in the second half of the song does come in quickly, and it’s where Allen sells us his vocal abilities. The song doesn’t really follow the classic songwriting structure and it’s what makes the whole experience so captivating. There is a lot of emotional depth in his singing and it really does make you want to keep listening. “Lost in My Mind” by Casey Austin Allen is worth the listen as it can provide you with the support you may need. Casey Austin Allen is an artist from Raleigh, North Carolina, who has been working in the music world for some time now. He has been a part of a few other groups and has dipped his toes in multiple genres, including rock, metal, pop, indie, and more. He enjoys creating unique blends that explore different emotions. There is clearly a lot of heart in what he does, as he tries his best to push away obstacles to do what he loves. Allen works hard in his songwriting and tries to make songs that all listeners can connect to. Casey Austin Allen is expected to release more music this year so don’t miss it. Written By Chantal Charles FOLLOW CASEY AUSTIN ALLEN: *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

With the release of her third single, Flora Summers has once again showcased her remarkable talent and innate ability to convey her honest emotions. “Little While Longer” captures the unrelenting desire to desperately hold onto someone you love, even though you know it will inevitably end. Summers wrote the first verse when she was nineteen, but due to the lack of tools and experience, she never finished the song. She presented it in different songwriting sessions overtime, but “no one really understood it.” Fortunately for Summers and her devote listeners, the artist learned to produce her own music and fans are now able to listen to the finished product. The vulnerable lyrics describe the singer’s inability to admit when “enough is enough” and walk away from something she knows is no longer healthy or good. This is reflected in the chorus as Summers sings: “Be mine a little while, little while, little while longer// Cause baby we are losing touch and I can’t// Really cannot give you up yet// I wanna be in love with you and me.” Furthermore, throughout the verses, she paints a vivid picture of the relationship and how the beginning of the end is unfolding before her eyes. Her detailed imagery and poetic lyricism are one of the many reasons fans fall in love with her, making Summers a remarkable artist that deserves to shoot up into complete stardom. Flora Summers is known for her flawless alt-pop songs which contain dreamy soundscapes that effortlessly transport listeners into another realm. “Little While Longer” maintains this distinctive sound with an ethereal production that perfectly complements her angelic vocals. The song starts with an airy synth wave that quickly builds to the soft beat and propels the audience into the whimsical soundscape. Once Summers’ stunning vocals begin, the synth sounds and bass notes play, providing an additional layer to the song. The synth notes ring in the background, phasing in and out throughout the song, enhancing the dynamic. Throughout the track, Summers utilizes multiple layers of guitar to increase the complexity of the production. Furthermore, her compelling voice sings the vulnerable lyrics with a hint of nostalgia and wistfulness that naturally mesmerizes the audience. Despite the melancholic message, the song maintains a lively atmosphere that naturally boosts the spirits of listeners. Check out her latest TikTok here that gives an insight on the making of the song. Flora Summers is a singer, songwriter, and producer from Sweden. “Little While Longer” is her third single as a solo artist. Currently, she is working on her debut solo EP, which is set for release in January 2024. Summers is one-half of the electro pop duo, Isle of You. The duo was nominated for Artist of the Future in Swedish Radio for the P3 Guld Awards. While Summers creates her own solo music under her pseudonym, she continues to release music with Isle of You as Ida Johansson. Through her art, she aspires to create music that is honest and personal—something that is authentically her. Her sound is a beautiful blend of indie-folk and pop, drawing inspiration from other artists from the genre, such as Lana Del Rey, Florence + The Machine, and Angel Olsen. Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW FLORA:

It's safe to say we've all had a falling out with someone. Sometimes it's over serious conflicts and sometimes it's over more...well, stupid stuff. Arden Alexa captures the raw emotions of these situations in her single, "Petty Bitch." Providing insight on what inspired the exasperated track, Arden revealed that "Petty Bitch" tells the story of the end of a friendship with her childhood best friend. The two parted ways over something arguably stupid, leaving Arden to deal with the difficult feelings and frustrations that came out of the experience. "Petty Bitch" was born out of this inner-turmoil Arden felt, serving as an outlet for the artist or anyone else who has been through something similar. Serving with an infectious, fiery energy, Arden Alexa showcases sheer edginess with "Petty Bitch." The pop-rock anthem is steeped in frustration and the desire for revenge, featuring an aggressive soundscape to match. Feeling somewhere between Taylor Swift and Hayley Williams, Arden belts out irritated lyrics over face-melting guitar riffs and driving drums, perfectly depicting the pent-up emotions she's been facing. With the relatable nature of the lyrics and the cathartic feelings of the music, "Petty Bitch" will have listeners coming back again and again to scream along to the angsty track. Arden Alexa is a 19-year-old singer/songwriter from San Francisco, CA. Music has been her passion for years, beginning with her mom taking her to "Music Together" as a toddler. She's been singing ever since, performing lead roles in musicals throughout her school career. In 2017, Arden won the Center of Social Justice Art Competition, showcasing her first original song. Winning the competition helped the artist realize that songwriting wasn't just something she could do for fun, but something she could use to help others. Making her debut in the music industry, Arden released her first single, "The Coast," in January of 2021. She has recently released her second EP, '22, which can be streamed on all platforms. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW ARDEN ALEXA:

Last year, singer/songwriter/producer Grant Knoche reintroduced himself to friends, family, and fans with his second EP, FIRST HELLO. Ten months later, the LA-based artist returns with a thrilling new collection of songs, I COULD JUST DIE THINKING OF US. The ten tracks document change in its sharpest, most turbulent forms; tearing you apart from the inside, whether it's the spark of connection or shock of loss. Highlights, such as "LOOK AT ME RIGHT NOW" and "INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS" slink forward, bearing a dangerously playful grin as Knoche twists and turns over earworm, club production. Sparser ballads, such as "PLEASE HURRY," create a similarly devastating impact by foregrounding the songwriter's powerful lyrics and vocal delivery. Then there are songs like "DELETE," explosively bridging these two poles into a transformative journey through emotional experience. The track, which stands as the EP's peak, begins with Knoche's delicate and honeyed voice singing over reverberating piano chords. Taking place in the aftermath of a breakup, Knoche marks the path through the minefield of moving on. Just when the song seems to fizzle out, his voice picks back up as distortion-heavy bass ignites "DELETE" like a fuse. Atmospheric synth pads roll in like thunder clouds, while risers ring like sirens. Then the immaculate single solidifies into its final stage: thumping pop-rock baring Knoche's sharpest barbs. Finally ready to move on, the soaring noise is cut off with the click of a keyboard. Even the most intense emotions can be severed, at least for now. As wind howls and distortion rumbles, Knoche writes from the midst of a storm. After being left without so much as an explanation, he attempts to process the inexplicable end of a relationship. "Now I'm climbing the stages of grief," he grits, "I'm adding a new one, yeah, it's called delete." The titular stage represents both literal and metaphorical distancing. In one of his most arresting lyrics, the Dallas-born artist feels the knife's twisting on Instagram. "I open the stories to a bouquet of flowers, saying "look what I came home to."" It's so real and honest, you can picture it perfectly in your mind and gut. Even from the perspective of a listener, the stage of acceptance feels unreachable. Perhaps the best Knoche can hope for in this moment is to wash his hands clean. "How could I let myself feel like second best?" The question brings a sense of hollowness. When you make someone your whole world, it doesn't merely burn down — it erupts. Grant Knoche discovered Logic at the young age of eleven. Since then, he taught himself production and began writing music. The Dallas-born, bedroom producer began releasing music in 2017, hitting the road to play his intimate songs cross-country. In 2022, Knoche found his breakthrough with the release of "First Hello." With the song, he came out to the people in his life (particularly his father) as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Knoche's beautiful and poetic expression of his path to self-acceptance was immediately embraced by millions. Since then, the LA-based producer has reached greater artistic heights with his vulnerable and expressive music. "DELETE" is just one of ten tracks on his third EP, I COULD JUST DIE THINKING OF US, which is out on all platforms now. Written By Andy M. FOLLOW Grant Knoche:

With Halloween right around the corner and Spooky Season sadly nearing its end, I felt it was essential to compile a list of some of my favorite songs to get me in the holiday spirit. To align with the spooky theme, I chose unlucky number 13 (unless you’re Taylor Swift, then it's very lucky.) With lyrics that contain dark imagery and deep synths, the songs found here are tracks that can be played year-round, as well as your spooky playlists. You may recognize some of these names while others may be new to you. Either way, each track is a guaranteed song to hype you up while you get ready for the spooky day. 1. Glow in the Dark— Mothica Starting off the list is a newer track by one of my favorite artists, Mothica. Released in June 2023 through a partnership with Rocksmith, “Glow in the Dark” utilizes the singer’s iconic dark-pop sound and her common message about mental health. The eerie imagery throughout the song highlights the artist hitting rock bottom and the tools she has used to crawl out from that pit. In the chorus, she sings: “My silver tears come out at night// I don’t need the stars, I glow in the dark.” With these lyrics, Mothica paints a vivid scene of her fighting the darkness and breaking free from the chains holding her back. Matched with the dark production, Mothica once again prevails as a dark-pop queen. 2. bury a friend— Billie Eilish It is no surprise that dark-pop goddess, Billie Eilish, made this list. The entirety of her debut album, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? could fit on this list, as she utilizes haunting metaphors and grim imagery on nearly every track. Even the album art encapsulates the spirit of Halloween and horror. “bury a friend” is arguably the creepiest, most unnerving track on the album. The song is about the monster under her bed, keeping her awake and infiltrating her dreams. Although not directly confirmed, fans speculate that the track is about Eilish’s experience with sleep paralysis, which the singer has implied that it may be. With the haunting speaking parts by Mehki Raine and the morbid lyrics, “bury a friend” effortlessly evokes a feeling of fear and distress in the listener, making it the perfect Halloween song. 3. Monster— Chandler Leighton As a self-proclaimed spooky girl, Chandler Leighton deserves to be on this list. In fact, you will see her name two more times. Similar to Mothica, the singer is known for her dark imagery and messages about mental health and emotional suffering. Despite having a name and lyrics that are perfect for Halloween, “Monster” was released in March 2023. The song details the story of an innocent girl who was corrupted and turned to the dark side. Every single lyric utilizes grim detail to bring Leighton’s story to life. In the chorus, she sings: “Call a doctor// I think I created a monster// She’s got a psycho inside her// But I think that I kinda like her.” She transports the listener into her headspace as Leighton contemplates this new version of herself. Alongside the dark, dramatic synth production, “Monster” is a perfect addition to this list. 4. Ghost of Mine— Kailee Morgue Despite the lyrics to “Ghost of Mine” being about an unrequited love, the song still fully encapsulates the spooky atmosphere of the season. The song instantly catches the listener’s attention with the unique production, before Morgue’s compelling vocals kickstart the verse. The lyrics paint the picture of the singer being haunted by the one she loves. Her deep metaphors and vivid imagery compare her life to a haunted house. He is everywhere and nowhere, as she is unable to reach him. In the second verse, she even sings: “Thought I heard you saying my name// Made my head spin.” Both of these ties into this spooky theme, with the idea of ghosts whispering in halls and demons making heads spin, like in The Exorcist. Even the singer’s last name represents this spooky genre well, making her a perfect candidate for this list. 5. Witch— FLØRE Throughout 2023, FLØRE has only released songs that share names with iconic supernatural creatures, such as werewolves, skeletons, and aliens. “Witch” is the latest installment of this peculiar, yet incredible pattern. The singer utilizes a clever metaphor about witch hunting to convey how it is to be a woman in this society, especially one in the spotlight. Women are often seen as sexual objects that must be submissive and quiet. While women are shamed for their natural desires, men are praised while they take advantage of this power imbalance. However, FLØRE uses this vivid imagery of witchcraft and magic to empower women while she rewrites this narrative. Instead, she casts a spell on the men and curses them for the judgement they send her way. Furthermore, FLØRE is known for her characteristic gothic aesthetic. When considering my picks for this list, I knew FLØRE was a definite choice. I have previously covered a couple of her singles, including her previous track, “Werewolf.” By now, it is second nature for me to consider her for all my spooky playlists. 6. I Hope Your Demons Look Like Me— TULLE TULLE is another incredible artist that is known for a dark aesthetic and even darker lyrics. She coined the term “death-pop,” which describes each of her incredible releases. Similar to FLØRE, I discovered TULLE through previous engagement with Pop Passion Blog. “I Hope Your Demons Look Like Me” was the first song I heard from the artist, and I was fortunate enough to cover the track for a review article. Just from the title alone, listeners know it will fit the haunting vibe perfectly. After being done wrong by someone she once admired, TULLE fantasizes about being the villain in their story. She utilizes sinister imagery and even biblical metaphors to emphasize this eerie storyline. Alongside the grim lyrics, the song contains a deep, dark production to tie in the whole atmosphere, making “I Hope Your Demons Look Like Me” a perfect fit. 7. madhouse— Nessa Barrett Nessa Barrett has been teetering on the edge of absolute stardom, ready to blow up like she has long deserved. She is a pop queen with an extensive discography that could provide multiple songs to this list. However, my personal favorite is the dark-pop anthem, “madhouse.” Similar to other tracks found here, the song explores the singer’s personal experience with mental health—including her stay in a psychiatric ward. She describes her experience with being made fun of, slut-shamed, and the relentless toll left on her psyche. The first verse introduces the notion that Barret is the mentally unstable villain with the lyrics: “I’m gonna star in my own psychological thriller// So go grab a seat now// There will be blood and gore// A box office killer, a sellout// Make me a spectacle.” From here, she continues to proclaim that they are going to put her in a madhouse and shove pills down her throat. But at the end of the chorus, she leaves the audience questioning as she sings: “But is it you or is it me?” This allows them to wonder if Barrett is truly insane, or if it is the people that put her there in the first place. The song utilizes a creepy production that places the listener directly in the psychological thriller Barrett mentioned in the very first line, as if they are being chased by Michael Myers himself. 8. Nightmares— Ellise “Nightmares” immediately catches the listener’s attention with the eerie production. The soundscape resembles a lullaby, attempting to lull the listener into a false sense of security. However, there are sinister undertones that prevent this from happening, as the dark production and lyrics continue through the song. Ellise shares the story of a toxic relationship where she wants to escape, but keeps finding herself pulled back in. In the chorus, she tells this unhealthy person that she sees them in her nightmares. The nightmares that are only there because of them. With the unique melody played in the background of the synth-pop production, the lullaby is a brilliant nod to the lyrics. It ties together Ellise’s lyrics in a cohesive manner, making “Nightmares” an unforgettable track. The unsettling atmosphere the song creates is phenomenal, making it the perfect soundtrack to a Halloween party. 9. Witch Hunt— Chandler Leighton and DEZI The second track by Chandler Leighton included in this list features singer-songwriter, DEZI. The two artists wrote the track during a writing camp in the summer of 2022. The message of the track was born from the artists’ experiences with “feeling like an outcast and being targeted for being different.” The singers utilize the metaphor of witch hunts throughout history as a poetic way to describe the ostracism they endured. Leighton instantly sets this scene with the lyrics: “Why are you scared of me? Am I too threatening?” Immediately, the audience is aware of the notion that the artists feel judged, despite the antagonist not knowing anything about them. In the pre-chorus, she continues to paint this rash judgement she faces with Biblical references in the lyrics: “Confess your obsession, your wicked intentions// Hide behind lies from your bible// You put me on trial, but you’re dead-on arrival// But you’re fuckin’ irrelevant.” The juxtaposition between witchcraft and religion has been prevalent throughout history, and continues to be seen to this day. “He who is without sin can cast the first stone” is directly from the Bible, but often ignored by its so-called followers. Leighton and DEZI call out the hypocrisy while brilliantly using this sinister imagery, making “Witch Hunt” one of my favorite choices from this list. 10. funhouse— Mothica and Kailee Morgue In this song, Mothica and Kailee Morgue join forces to create one of my favorite tracks of all time. “funhouse” utilizes imagery of the carnival attraction to describe internal struggles with body image and self-confidence. Specifically, the singers disclose being in the limelight and having their every move scrutinized. They face such a deep judgement that eventually they do not recognize themselves. Similar to funhouse mirrors, their self-esteem reflects a distorted image of someone that does not look like them. Not only does “funhouse” contain detailed lyrics to paint this scene, but the production also includes sound effects that transport the listener to this carnival. While the instrumentation maintains the dark-pop, synth-rock vibe that Mothica is known for, the background utilizes sounds that emulate the scenery described, making it the perfect song for those ready to dress up as Pennywise and friends. 11. all the good girls go to hell— Billie Eilish Billie Eilish has enough songs in her discography to fill this list on her own, and then some. Including only one of her tracks would be a disservice to everyone involved. “all the good girls go to hell” has a title that already evokes the horror behind the holiday. While Eilish is known for her dark imagery, she is also recognized for her lyrics that touch on important topics. “all the good girls go to hell” discusses climate change and the inevitable doom that the world faces. She starts the song with her voice heavily altered as she sings: “My Lucifer is lonely,” before bursting into the first verse filled with deep religious references. Throughout the song, she indicates that God has forsaken this earth and left it to simultaneously drown and burn. While the message in this song is significantly bleaker than the rest, it conveys a similar theme. That dark, morbid imagery is the best way to communicate the deepest thoughts and feelings. 12. Cross My Heart I Hope U Die— Meg Smith & Chandler Leighton The last Chandler Leighton song on the list is her latest feature on Meg Smith’s previously released track. Initially released in 2020, Smith decided to release a spookier version of “Cross My Heart, I Hope You Die.” She wanted to include a collaborator that would naturally encapsulate the morbidity and horror of the track, so she asked Leighton to join her on the song. Prior to this announcement, I was already a listener of both artists. I found Leighton on a dark-pop playlist and I had the opportunity to write a review on one of Smith’s previous singles. So, when the artists announced their collaboration, I knew the song was going to be even more incredible than the original. The song was initially written after Smith was broken up with on Halloween and she decided to cast a spell on him. Although the spell was just something minor, like a tummy ache, the song takes the revenge to the next level. The lyrics convey the morbid fantasy of ending the ex-boyfriend’s life and leaving him to rot. Furthermore, the recently released music video plays like a home invasion/slasher film that will have audiences on the edge of their seats. If this track does not scream “Halloween,” then I am not sure what does. 13. Antichrist— Holly Humberstone Last but not least is the lead single from Holly Humberstone’s new album, Paint My Bedroom Black. “Antichrist” is a melancholic track about the singer wondering if she is the villain in the story that left the subject broken and bruised. While the song veers away from the dark-pop sound that majority of the songs on this list have, Humberstone still includes sinister imagery and unique sound effects to capture the essence of the holiday. The song immediately kicks off with layered vocal effects singing the lyrics: “Am I the antichrist? How do I sleep at night?” The layered effects emulate the demonic voice often found in horror movies, bringing to life the title character. This effect is used throughout the song, while Humberstone questions her morality and innocence. “Antichrist” is the perfect song to add to your playlist if you are into more soft, soothing tracks, rather than heavy synth beats and electric guitars. Every single song on this list is a track that can be listened to on October 31st or March 31st. Some of these songs and artists I have known and loved for years, while others I have discovered specifically for my admiration for dark and gloomy aesthetics. Whether you are alternative indie or synth-pop, there is a song on this list for you! Let me know in the comments on our social media listed below if there are any songs you think should be listed and what you think of our choices! Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Norwegian singer-songwriter Hanna Emilie has just released her new single, “TOTGA.” TOTGA stands for The One That Got Away, and this song is exactly that: Hanna embraces the cliche and turns it into a bittersweet message to her former partner. She immediately sets up the main premise of the song in the introduction, saying “I wish I didn’t have to wonder why/didn’t you make me stay?” Hanna says that she always feels so lost thinking about this guy, and she feels that the timing is just never right. She says “I don’t think I can let you go,” and she has to keep going back on her words because this guy can’t escape her mind. Hanna repeats the introduction in the chorus, and tells the listener that she’s tired of being The One That Got Away, but “it doesn’t matter anyway.” In the second verse, she recognizes that the two of them have some issues. Hanna keeps thinking back to the past, saying “I wish I didn’t kiss you back.” Her ex constantly reminded her that they were never going to work but, but now he misses her. She’s confused, and almost feels betrayed by this guy because he changed his mind. Hanna realizes that even though they had their issues, they could’ve worked out if he didn’t push her to become the one that got away. The best word to describe the production on “TOTGA” is dreamy. The instrumentation is dreamlike, and paints a beautiful, flowing vision in the listeners mind. Hanna’s vocals are super echoey and smooth, and her strong range allows her to flex her vocal talents easily. There’s some nice little vocal touches, and her head voice riffs also add to that dreamy, ethereal vibe. Her harmonies, especially in the chorus, are luscious and delicately crafted. There’s a great acoustic guitar on the track that adds both authenticity and tranquility. This style of moody and romantic songwriting is similar to Lizzy McAlpine, Lennon Stella, and Astrid S. This song is a great mix of alt-pop, indie-pop, and contemporary that is melancholic and organic. The song is overall just a fantastic vibe, and it truly takes you into the lyrics and the message that Hanna is saying. Hanna Emilie is an up-and-coming Norwegian songstress. She is fairly new to the music scene, releasing her debut EP “Tease” in 2022. Yet, she has already proven that she is an incredibly talented singer and songwriter. Her song “If I Only Knew” off of “Tease” currently has over 100k streams on Spotify, and she just released an acoustic version of the song this year. Now she’s preparing her next EP, and “TOTGA” is the lead single and title track. From what Hanna has said about the EP, it is going to be more organic and intimate sounding compared to her previous releases. It’s truly exciting to see what Hanna will do with this next EP, but it’s clear it will be a wonderful piece of work that her fans will be constantly coming back to. Written By Lauren DiGiovanni FOLLOW HANNA:

Drugs and alcohol have been romanticized for decades. Going out and partying every night is something you're expected to do when you're young. But how long will the partying last? Sometimes it's best to ask why you need to party every weekend, why you need to drink to hide from your emotions, and what are you doing with yourself. Sometimes life can lead you down a depressing road and you have to ask yourself the hard questions. These are all questions Matt Evans asks himself on his new track Nothin’ But Heartache. On this track, Matt Evans describes the ups and downs of partying and learning to let go. The track begins slow and muffled building anticipation before slipping into the first verse. The track stays rather subdued and dreamy the entire track. The dreamy aspect feels like a call towards the haze many fall into when drinking. In this haze, everything blends and the fun of the moment doesn’t seem as fun. That is the point Matt is making with this record. But it doesn’t condemn this type of behavior, it just calls attention to it. Matt knows from experience what it's like to need external validation and he just wants to explain these feelings to the world. He hopes that with the track he can find forgiveness for his behavior and move on. The track is extremely meaningful and relates to the constant stress of youth and trying to find happiness anywhere you can. Nothin’ But Heartache is a mesmerizing listen and something that can be played again and again. Matt Evans is a powerhouse from a small town called Perth in Australia. Once an Australian TV star he had dreams of hitting the stage with original music. He began writing his songs and making subtle waves in the music industry. His sound is a cool combination of classic rock and modern pop music to create a sound similar to Harry Styles or Post Malone. His writing ability is heavily influenced by similar genres, tagging Queen and Elton John as major influences. Matt Evans is a charismatic performer who was made for the main stage. Written By Kaiana Lee FOLLOW MATT EVANS:

"Angel" is the latest moody pop track by rising pop artist, Chelle. Similar to artists like Dua Lipa and Zara Larsson, Chelle has crafted an electro-pop, danceable sound that had me hooked from the first synths. The song details feelings of loss and love through vulnerable lyricism. Chelle excels in descriptive imagery and religious metaphors, all in a way that lets insiders deep into her heart and mind surrounding this breakup. The varying dynamics and tempos throughout the song reflect the varying stages we go through amidst a breakup. If you are looking for a way to dance through your latest heartbreak, Chelle has just released the perfect track. In "Angel," Chelle opens up about the raw emotions of hurt, desperation, and heartbreak. She compares this unraveling of a relationship to feeling that she has lost her faith and reached 'Hell.' In the heartfelt chorus, she sings, "I need my angel." This refrain continues into an outro that almost feels like pleading as she repeatedly sings, "I need my angel / I need my angel / I need my angel" before the track cuts off. On the subject of her former lover, she describes the hold they have on her and the damage they've left in their absence with the harsh simile, "You're ripping through my body like a tidal wave." She wants to experience the euphoric Heaven of being with this person. She wants to put herself together. She wants to move on from this heartbreak. These poignant lyrics are a stark contrast from the commercial pop production, but it all comes together to keep us engaged in Chelle's tale into the very last note. Chelle is a Seattle-based independent singer and songwriter who blends R&B, Pop, and Lofi genres into her music. She writes and co-produces all of her songs. Recently, she collaborated with the music YouTube channel, "MrSuicideSheep." Her music has been featured on Seattle radio stations. She has taken inspiration from several artists, including Kehlani, Ariana Grande, and UMI. "Angel" was my first introduction to her music, and I am looking forward to seeing what releases next. If you were a fan of this song by Chelle, make sure to follow the social media links to keep up with all the latest information on her music. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW CHELLE:

Small talk can help fill conversations, and can be a great way to chat with people you don’t really know too well. However, it turns sour when small talk becomes the only thing one knows how to confidently talk about. It feels like the truth about your mental health and anxiety will come pouring out if you talk about anything other than your rehearsed script. If you stray from talking about the weather or what you ate for breakfast, the rest will follow. Hana Lili’s recent release “Small Talk” explains this very feat, as the title might suggest. Despite her insecurities, Lili’s soundscape is anything but self-assured. Her strong drum beats and electric guitar strumming demonstrates the cacophony of what is going on in her head, a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, all overlapping each other vying to be heard. Her thoughts aren’t pretty, but this song is most certainly a gorgeous work of art. The contrast between what Lili talks about and the way she actually feels is prevalent, and it leaks through in her lyrics. She feels like she is a disappointment, like she has embarrassed herself, like she bores everyone. Her chorus details this, as she opens with “You’ll find me hiding in the small talk until I’ve bored everybody in the whole room”. She hides in the little topics she knows how to discuss, and she never lets herself break free from this safety net. She continues and sings “Its easier to stay in the shallows ‘cause I’d drown in the ocean / And I lie awake in bed regretting every word that I’ve spoken”. This lyric hits hard to all those who have struggled with social anxiety (which, despite how isolating the feeling is, is 99% of the world). She knows she stuck to her script of what is supposed to be talked about, but still feels like she did something wrong. This back and forth is exhausting, and she knows it would be so much worse if she talked about what was actually swimming around in her head. Hana Lili is an artist from South Wales, and recently finished supporting Coldplay on a leg of their recent tour. She has amassed over 24,000 monthly listeners, and for good reason. She is known for her authenticity in her music, and she is not afraid to talk about the bad parts of life. Lili sings about breakups, overthinking, and mental health, and her audience truly can connect with her ability to put these horrible parts of life into words. Her soundscape is a mix between indie and pop, with hints of 90s grunge. A similar vibe to boygenius, Billie Eilish, and Suki Waterhouse, Lili is certainly not an artist to miss. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more music from this rising star. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW HANA LILI:

Photo: Halocene via Facebook Kicking off in Columbus, Ohio, on September 7th and concluding in Flint, Michigan, on October 6th, Haloecene and No Resolve's co-headline tour was a high-energy experience to remember. Joined by supporting artists Hooked Like Helen and The Haunt, this was an action-packed whirlwind of activity featuring twenty-two performances. And, on September 29th, on the evening of the Harvest Supermoon, I was honored to partake in the festivities at Lincoln, Nebraska's Cosmic Eye Brewing. Established in 2018 and nestled in the Haymarket, the family-owned brewery and taproom quickly became a local favorite. Ranging from board games to live performances and featuring hoppy, American-style beers, this family-friendly establishment offers something for everyone. Photo: A snap of Cosmic Eye Brewing (author's collection). As this performance coincidentally happened to take place on my birthday, I splurged for the VIP experience, and I have absolutely zero regrets about making that investment. The (Halocene) VIP experience included a meet and greet with Brad and Addie (they're huggers, by the way), an acoustic performance, a VIP lanyard, and a signed poster. Addie gave the audience a choice between two songs, and, for the first time in the tour, the Foo Fighters cover won out over the other selection (I can't remember what the other song option was). Addie and Brad were lovely, friendly, and incredibly accommodating to their fans. The couple spent as much time as possible with us before having to prep. The nice part about this is that afterward, we could also see the other bands warming up and doing sound checks, which made for a robust experience. Video: Halocene VIP Experience 9.29.23 (author's footage). First on the stage were husband and wife duo Nikki and Jon Stipp of the Ohio-based band Hooked Like Helen. The band's website advises that its sound embodies 'a unique vein of alternative music; dark lyrical themes of childhood trauma and substance abuse are crafted into relatable sing-a-long anthems of hope and resilience.' One of the songs I particularly enjoyed was about Aileen Wuornous, an infamous female serial killer. Nikki's vocals soar on songs like 'I Don't Mind, Dopamine, and OCD.' Hooked Like Helen delivered a solid performance and set the tone for the evening ahead. Video: Hooked Like Helen 9.29.23 (author's footage). Next up was the South Florida band, The Haunt. Siblings Maxamlion and Anastasia are joined by Nick Lewert (drums) and Nat Smallish (bass guitar). The Haunt is a band with which I was already familiar, having heard some of their songs prior to the show. I was very excited to see them live; believe me, they did NOT disappoint! The band's sound has been described as 'a swirl of Indie-Pop and Post-Punk with a devilish alchemy that summons both Blues and Beats...' Performing favorites such as 'Ok,' 'Make Me King,' and 'Hook, Line, & Sinker,' The Haunt kept the momentum going. After the show, I had the opportunity to chat with the band members whilst they signed the shirt I purchased. Mark my words - The Haunt is going places, and I encourage you to keep an eye out for this up-and-coming band! Video: The Haunt 9.29.23 (author's footage). Third to the stage and taking Cosmic Eye Brewing by storm was none other than Halocene, which was my primary motivation for making the hour-long trek to Lincoln. (If you haven't listened to their album "Maleficent" yet, I highly recommend it!) Husband and wife duo Addie Nicole and Brad Amick were absolutely phenomenal live. Believe me, if you're a fan of Halocene, nothing compares to the opportunity to hear them live. Even though Brad had mentioned during the meet and greet that he was having some trouble with his voice, that did not have any discernable impact on his vocal delivery. At one point, Addie wandered into the crowd, singing directly to the fans, a decision that really heightened the audience's engagement. Featuring songs off of the "Maleficent" album, the band also offered flawless covers of songs such as System of a Down's 'Chop Suey' and Evanescence's 'Bring Me to Life.' The sheer vocal power and energy here made for an incredible performance! Video: Halocene 9.29.23 (author's footage). Last but certainly not least was co-headliner No Resolve. Formed in Detroit in 2010, the band features Oscar James Pegorraro (vocals), Jason Hatmaker (guitar), Matty Shea (guitar/keys), and Dennis Patterson (bass). For those like myself who may be unfamiliar with No Resolve, the band's sound is described as 'modern rock with grunge roots, taking influence from bands including Papa Roach and Three Days Grace.' Having never heard of No Resolve, I wasn't quite sure what to expect...so imagine my surprise when one of the first songs was a cover of Garth Brooks' 'The Thunder Rolls,' but with an unexpected (to me) rock twist. Also offered were original songs such as 'Never Back Down' and 'Come Back Stronger.' The final tune of the evening, however, was an unexpected and wholesome surprise. However, the presence of the kiddos was suddenly made clear by No Resolves' final song - a rock version of 'How Far I'll Go' from the Disney film Moana. Oscar pulled two little girls up on stage to perform with the band! What a magical moment for them - they will always treasure that memory! Video: No Resolve featuring special guests 9.29.23 (author's footage). Honestly, this easily ranks as one of my top three concert experiences for 2023. The venue and atmosphere were fantastic, and I am so happy I was able to be a part of this. If ever you find yourself presented with the opportunity to see any of these bands perform, please do so - you will not be disappointed! For upcoming events, Halocene kicks off its winter Europe Tour with Lauren Babic in Birmingham on December 1st, 2023. To stay updated on the latest tours and projects for Hooked Like Helen, The Haunt, and No Resolve, please check out their respective website links embedded throughout the review or follow them on their socials! Written By Vanessa Siebrass Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Copyright not intended. Fair Use Act, section 107.

“Fix This” takes place within an argument, and yet, it is filled with more love and commitment than most songs reflecting the happiest moments of a relationship. It reflects that it is here, in the worst times, that people truly can measure their care for one another. Willing and begging to simply “fix it” because there is so much to be gained from doing so. The piece is about the need to work through these issues, sung from both perspectives, it doesn’t even touch on the actual subject of debate it only repeats that both people want the same thing, again emphasizing the need to work together and how pointless the argument, the distance, and the fighting is in the long run. The song begins with Olivia Lunny’s verse, displaying the general state of the relationship and ending their description with an exhausted “I don’t wanna fight” that introduces the chorus. It’s upbeat and electric, featuring echoes of her own voice that draw attention to the repetitiveness she must feel in this circling dynamic. As if answering her, Bryce begins next. He sings of the same goals she holds, wanting only peace and peace with her. Calling out this collaboration, they then sing together. When this occurs, the more desperate tone found in both of their individual pieces disappears. The song ends with both of them repeating that title line, “Give me a reason to fix this”. Olivia Lunny began creating music at twelve years old when she learned guitar and wrote her first song. She gained traction quickly, and her success was noticed, she gained a nomination from the Western Canadian Music Awards for Pop Artist of the Year as well as achieving a spot on the Top 40 with her single “I Got You”. This is her first collaboration with Bryce Vine, who has held a position in the industry for a bit longer. He’s known for his experimentation across genres and has achieved a large public presence, with over four million Spotify listeners as well as various social media platforms that hold similar popularity. Keep up with both artists below. Written By Hailey Schap FOLLOW OLIVIA LUNNY: FOLLOW BRYCE VINE: