Gabriela Bee is here with her first original single, “LOOK AT YOU NOW.” It’s a beautiful song where Gabriela takes a look back on her younger self and wants to reassure her that everything will be okay. She starts the song off by saying the storm is over now, and all you had to do was to find some luck to find yourself. Everything is okay now; you’re doing great and your family loves you, and it goes to show that nothing lasts forever. In the pre-chorus, Gabriela says that she wishes her younger self that she knew everything that was waiting for her, and she says “Don't feel so jaded.” Gabriela switches the vibe in the chorus and says “Look at you now/you’re alive.” She understands that when times are rough, and things are going badly, you’ll be okay eventually. In the second verse, she asks her younger self “Remember what you told me/you felt like everybody you love's gonna leave you.” Gabriela tells her that she shouldn’t feel lonely because she has many people who love and support her in her life. She says “They won’t ignore you” when you get angry because those feelings won’t last forever. The pre-chorus and chorus are repeated, and Gabriela repeats “now they see me,” “now you see me,” and “now I see me” in the bridge. Gabriela composed the perfect song that wonderfully details the feelings about looking back on your younger self. The overall vibe of “LOOK AT YOU NOW” balances perfectly between nostalgia and uplifting appreciation for your younger self. The reverbed acoustic guitar and the echoes sprinkled throughout really add to this nostalgic and dreamlike feeling that Gabriela is singing about. Then, Gabriela does something unique in the choruses: she intermittently stops the instrumentals, leaving the listeners with just her voice and the harmonies. This not only shows off the great chordal stacking, but adds emphasis to the lyrics. The production throughout the whole track is very detailed and intricate, which produced a very fresh sound. Gabriela's voice is lively and smooth, but it doesn’t come off as too bold or too loud. Overall, the backing track perfectly complements the lyrics Gabriela is singing while also having moments where it shines. Gabriela Bee is a singer, actress, and a content creator. She first got her start on Vine with her family at only 6 years old. From there, her family created the YouTube channel The Bee Family, which currently has over 10 million subscribers and over 3 billion views across their videos. She has also branched off to make her own YouTube channel, where she has been posting covers for over 4 years. Music has been a passion for Gabriela since she was born. Gabriela has performed at Wembley Arena, music festivals, and even toured with Walk off the Earth. With this single alone, she has shown off her strong songwriting capabilities, her amazing vocals, and her passion for creating quality music. Written By Lauren DiGiovanni FOLLOW GABRIELA:

*Photo: Reneé Rapp via reneerapp.com Reneé Rapp has been commanding the stage for years. From high school theater performances to starring on Broadway, the singer has a natural proclivity for the limelight. Currently, she has been showcasing her remarkable skills on her headlining tour, The Snow Hard Feelings Tour. After listening to her recently released debut album, Snow Angel, I became an instant fan. Immediately, I was inspired to review the album and to purchase last minute tickets to her show at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Attending this show and being able to witness Rapp in her element was the best impulse decision I have ever made. From her phenomenal powerhouse vocals to her personalized fan interactions, Rapp proves that she was born for the stage. As I had stated in my album review, I knew that the first track on Snow Angel would be an iconic opener for a concert. As it turned out, Rapp thought the same thing and kickstarted the night with her high-energy, pop-rock inspired song, "Talk Too Much." This was an instant mood booster, getting the audience on their feet and dancing along. In the bridge of the studio version, Rapp has a hilarious speaking part that gives the audience an insight of her inner monologue. However, due to this being a little hard to convey live, the singer took this time to showcase her range with impeccable vocalizations. At the end of this section, the song has a fun line that provides additional humor to the track as she yells "Ah, just shut the fuck up." As Rapp inched closer to this part, I could feel the tension in the audience as we all anticipated to see if she was going to do. Of course, she did and the crowd went wild as we joined her in this iconic moment. From the very first song, I knew that this was going to be a legendary show. Photo: Reneé Rapp singing "Gemini Moon" during a full moon. Rapp immediately entranced her audience from the very first note from her outstanding vocals to her overwhelming charisma. Throughout the show, her cheeky and humorous personality shined through each of her performances and every monologue in between. With clever anecdotes and amusing dance moves, the artist kept the audience on their toes and there was never a dull moment in the show. Something that truly stood out to me was when she was sharing how last December she headlined The Troubadour (max. capacity 500), and now she was headlining a sold-out show at the Greek Theatre (max. capacity 6,000). I could tell that she was very grateful for the past year she has had and all the fans that stood by her. Which then led her to point out familiar faces she recognized from her previous show, calling out fans by name. This emphasized the fact that to her, her fans are not just another number to her. Instead, she feels a personal connection to her "OG Fans," and remembers everything about them. Even as a brand-new fan, this made me tear up. Seeing an artist that has blown up recently but still remembers where she came from is amazing to witness. Anyone in the crowd could she the sheer amount of love and appreciation she has for everyone that has supported her. As a thank you to these fans, she gave the Los Angeles date a unique surprise. She shared a story about how she began recording and posting videos of her singing in high school- ones that the mean girls at school would make fun of her for. However, she is very grateful that her friend encouraged her to post these videos. Then, the singer played a video on the big screen of her singing a song from singer, rapper, and personal inspiration, Bryson Tiller. This led to the singer covering the song live on stage, as a tribute to her fans that have been with her since day one. Into the second verse, the surprise continued as the rapper joined her on stage to finish the track. It was such a heartwarming moment as we all knew just how special this was to not only the original fans but to Rapp herself. Seeing her live out her dream and duet with one of her biggest inspirations is enough to bring joyful tears to the audience's eyes. Video: Reneé Rapp performing "Exchange" with Bryson Tiller Throughout the show, Rapp periodically shared insight on the songwriting process behind her songs and discussed the background of the lyrics. Snow Angel was produced by friend and colleague, Alexander 23. Rapp invited him to be one of her openers for the tour, making the lineup even more special. As a cowriter on every track, Alexander 23 was a crucial part of the album-making process and Rapp credits him for a major part of the project's success. So when Rapp brought her friend out on stage to play the guitar while she sang "I Wish," it brought a sentimental atmosphere to the performance. With the band faded into the background, Rapp and Alexander 23 were at the front and center, sitting on the stage while performing the vulnerable track. This provided an intimate setting that made the huge, legendary amphitheater seem like a cozy, private venue. The chemistry the two artists share shines through their interactions, showcasing that they were a musical match made in heaven. After the initial ending with "In The Kitchen," fans new Rapp would come back out for at least one final song-- the title track. The singer had not sung "Snow Angel" yet, and we all knew it would be the perfect song to close the concert. As anticipated, she came out in a full white outfit while "snow" came pouring down, tying together the whole imagery. Even the screen behind Rapp gave her angel wings, making the artist fully embody the track's name. At the end of the powerful song, Rapp began one final speech. She told everyone how grateful she was for their support and emphasized the gratitude she feels for the sold-out show at the iconic theatre. While choking back tears, the audience knew that nothing she was saying was for show. Rapp was genuinely appreciative of everyone's love and support. Her tears ran free while she looked away to gather herself, only making the audience tear up themselves. The relationship Rapp has with her fans is so pure and wholesome, making her one of the easiest artists to support. Photo: Reneé Rapp's emotional speech after "Snow Angel" The Snow Hard Feelings Tour barely just began, with North American dates ending on November 3rd, and her European leg quickly following. Check out her social media and website to score tickets. You will not regret seeing Rapp live. From her mesmerizing vocals to her down-to-earth personality, she is a world-class performer. Take the opportunity to see her now before she grows into an even bigger superstar! And make sure you do not miss her as Regina George in the movie adaption of Mean Girls: The Musical, out January 12, 2024! Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

This song, “UNTOUCHABLE” by the pop band Haunter, is a bright, emotional song about dreams and wanting to experience more and get more out of the world you’re in. If you’re a person who feels like you’re made for more than you’re currently living, this song is for you. A defiant anthem for those who dream big, Haunter describes that feeling perfectly with lyrics like “I have to risk it all to get higher” and “it’s a race to the top of the world tonight.” This song invites you to take chances, to reach for more, to enjoy all that life has to offer. Even when the world tries to make you feel like you’re nothing, know that you’re worth so much more. As the song says: “we’re untouchable.” “UNTOUCHABLE” is a rousing pop ballad full of bright, pulsating melodies and powerful lyrics. With a heavy electronic track balanced by smooth vocals, listeners are caught right from the beginning, sucked into the vibrant world that this song provides. After starting with an atmospheric melody, the beat kicks in as the first verse starts, a rhythmic instrumental layered with strong vocals. The pre-chorus builds the tension until the song explodes with energy in the chorus. With poignant yet singable lyrics, the chorus is the perfect combination of powerful music with an enthralling message. This pattern repeats as the song drops back into the second verse before returning to the pre-chorus and chorus. The song then slows down for the bridge, which keeps the tension simmering before building back up for one more visit to the chorus. Overall, with “UNTOUCHABLE,” Haunter has made an inspirational and addicting track that will instantly be on repeat! Haunter is a pop band made up of guitarist Enoma Asowata, bassist Mark Schroeder, guitarist and keyboardist Mike Ray, and vocalist Lucy LeNoir. Working with Grammy nominated producer Tyler Smyth, they’ve developed their musical personality as a group since their first single, “Love You Better,” released in 2020. While pulling sonic inspiration from artists like Chvrches, Taylor Swift, Ellie Goulding, Imagine Dragons, as well as occasional inspiration from more pop rock groups such as Jimmy Eat World and Paramore, Haunter has created their own unique sound that has captivated their listeners. With a goal of making connections with those listeners and with the belief that music is akin to love, Haunter is dedicated to creating and releasing music that touches on feelings that everyone around the world can relate to and appreciate. Click the links below to listen to more of their music! Written By Morgan Fischer FOLLOW Haunter:

This past Tuesday, October 10th, was World Mental Health Day. The global observation is dedicated to having discussions surrounding mental health awareness, education, and most importantly, advocacy. Considering the growing social stigma pertaining to mental health, advocacy is not only necessary to legitimize it as a human right but to demonstrate to those contending with their own mental health that they’re worthy of agency. Or as The Collection puts it in their latest single, "Medication", it illustrates that we “deserve to be well” and feel at home within ourselves. “Medication” is lyrical advocacy that also inspires intrapersonal empowerment. The indie-pop ode opens with an intricate piano melody from Sarah McCoy that encapsulates both seriousness and grace; two sentiments that are needed when processing our own mental health journey. The first sentiment is to grasp the gravity of the excursion itself, and the second sentiment being what we owe ourselves amid this excursion. This ushers in the first verse where lead singer David Wimbish recounts the mixed emotions they had at the thought of “need[ing] medicine” within their own journey. With the lack of transparency and an overabundance of misinformation about medication, having some misgivings is understandable. When misgivings are mismanaged, however, they can prevent us from seeking out the help we need. But Wimbish makes it clear in the pre-chorus that “sitting / aimless and drifting” in this confliction is becoming tiresome. Then the melody suddenly disappears. Swift, airy guitar chords replace it to symbolize Wimbish freeing themselves from all personal and societal reservations about medication. This leads into a liberating chorus that serves as a rational reminder: we “deserve to be well”. And sometimes being well requires a little assistance. Graham Dickey's high-spirited horn section highlights the improved outlook on medication as it closes out the chorus and brings the song to the second verse. This verse makes it a point to reassure listeners that it’s okay to still have days that make us feel like “the storm has never passed”. What should be of greater significance is the fact that we’re still “climbin’ the gates of [our] mind” to be healthy; no longer letting our own reservations halt our journey. Needing medication to be well does not in any way, shape, or form mean that we’re broken. And “Medication” goes above and beyond to prove this; allowing listeners to feel less alone on their respective mental health journeys. Thank you, The Collection, for advocating – it helps more than you know. The Collection is an alt indie-pop band from Saxapahaw, North Carolina, with a talent for crafting and sharing stories that foster an overwhelming sense of community set to dazzling orchestrations. Huge congratulations are in order for the success of the Soil & Sky Festival. The arts-driven festival was hosted and headlined by the band in late September at the Benzai Bloomstead just outside of Saxapahaw. The festival’s debut shaped up to be an inclusive space for listeners to reconnect with themselves and the planet we share together. I know myself and others cannot wait to hear details for next year’s Soil & Sky Fest. But in the meantime, we’ll just have to keep ourselves busy by streaming “Medication” as The Collection prepares to release more singles from their upcoming album. The anticipated album centers on the process of the mental health journey: taking listeners through various experiences that highlight the fluctuating fluidity of said journey. The best way to stay updated on those forthcoming releases is by showing The Collection some virtual love in the form of likes, follows, and of course, more streaming. Written by Giavanna Gradaille FOLLOW THE COLLECTION:

Growing up and finding out who we are, what we want to do, and where we want to be isn't the easiest task; and when you have someone over your shoulder, trying to make you into someone that you're not, makes that task even harder. Sometimes it's best to face this journey of self-discovery alone without someone whispering their opinions in your ear. Yes, it's scary and yes, you will face some difficult decisions. You may even make a wrong decision, but everything in life is a learning experience. "Own Way Home" by Riya Gadher reminds us that sometimes, being alone is a good thing. No one knows you better than yourself. Only you know what you truly want, and only you can get yourself there. There is an end to the road eventually, and once you're there, you will find peace and happiness. There's no better feeling than being content with who you are and where you've ended up in your life. "Own Way Home" is a soft, minimalistic pop song that puts the focus on meaning and emotion. Riya refers to finding out her purpose in life as "home" as she walks many different roads and paths all alone in hopes she will end up where she's meant to be. The song was recorded at Metropolis, one of the United Kingdoms top recording studios. Written, performed and produced by Riya herself (as well as mixed and mastered by Liam Nolan, known for his work on Hello by Adele), the instrumentation consists of a soft mixture of beats and piano while Riya's beautifully delicate voice takes the forefront. Riya wrote "Own Way Home" while dealing with her own personal struggles of being 20 years old with an old soul; but instead of writing a sad song, she used her sense of faith and optimism to create a positive, uplifting and relatable track. Riya Gadher is an independent singer, songwriter and producer from Leicester, United Kingdom who is now based in London. She has a songwriting and performance degree from attending university, and has been building herself up to officially begin her career as an artist for the past five years. Although she released her debut single "Indian Ocean" in 2020, she see's 2023 as the year she fully launched her music career with the single release "You Take Up My Songs" from earlier this year (which we also review right here), and now her latest release, "Own Way Home". This is just the beginning for Riya and she has a lot of plans in the works! Make sure to follow below to keep track of what comes next for Riya. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW RIYA:

Halloween is my favorite holiday, and my house reflects the aesthetic year-round. From my love to horror films and books to my obsession with decorative skulls, I am evidently drawn by the darkness around us. So, it is only fitting that I had the honor to review LVCRFT’s latest album, V. Just like the spooky holiday, the group only returns once a year to release an album themed around horror, death, and all things creepy. The twelve-track project is everything I have been looking for. Every year, my husband and I set up our decorations and play Halloween playlists. Unfortunately, we always get the basics, such as The Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack and Michael Myers’ theme song from the classic horror-movie, Halloween. Now, I have an entire discography dedicated to my Halloween obsession and every fan of the holiday can join me as I celebrate the band’s creative ambitions. 1. Everyday is Halloween 2. Burnin’ 3. Bad Witches 4. Purgatory feat. Monte Revolta 5. Seraphina 6. Scream! (For Halloween) feat. The Remains 7. Vendetta 8. Sound of Running 9. Never Be Alone 10. Late Night Rider 11. Feeling Like Halloween 12. Fare Thee Well Behind LVCRFT are three talented artists: Grammy Award winning songwriters, Evan “Kidd” Bogart and Amanda “MNDR” Warner, and Grammy Award winning producer, Peter Wade. Regarding the background of the group, “LVCRFT maintains anonymity with spooky pseudonyms like Lil Punkin, DeepKutz, Norman Crates, Scary Ana Grande to name a few,” while “their ‘day jobs’ have seen them concoct iconic records for Katy Perry, Dua Lipa, Madonna, Lizzo, Charli XCX, Mariah Carey, Amy Winehouse, Kylie Minogue, and Killer Mike.” In other words, the collaborators of these songs have worked with the biggest names in music, but still come together to make spooky and horror themed songs to feed listeners during the Halloween season. In 2019, they released their first album, This Is Halloween Volume 1, which featured their hit single, “Skeleton Sam.” Thus, began the lore of this fictional character that continues to make appearances in each of their releases. The group has been featured in prominent Halloween and horror media through partnerships, such as Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Season 3, Adam Sandler’s Hubie Halloween, Anna Paquin’s Flack, and Freeform’s annual 31 Nights of Halloween. Furthermore, “Skeleton Sam” was the lead track from the Hocus Pocus 2 soundtrack. They have even partnered with Spirit Halloween, the nation’s most renowned Halloween store. Their partnerships with well-known Horror tastemakers and creators continue to build each year, showing that they are the holiday’s most notable musical curator. Before I dive into each individual track, let me provide you with some history. LVCRFT has a specific “lore” that surrounds each album. This started with their first single, “Skeleton Sam.” Since then, they have continued the story of Samuel St. Skelevoie’s adventures through his life, or rather his afterlife. A major aspect of his story is Skeleton Sam’s “desperate quest to rescue his lost love, Seraphina.” Through multiple tracks, including one named after his lover, LVCRFT shares this captivating journey. Beyond this album, the group is also set to release a “found footage” short film on social media, providing fans with a visual representation of this story. Check out their socials and their previous albums to emerge yourself into this immersive experience and to see if you can connect the dots along the way! “Everyday is Halloween” Starting off strong, “Everyday is Halloween” immediately sets the tone for the album. A deep synth sound effect introduces the song, before it slowly starts breaking down and fading out, paired with eerie owl hoots. The instrumentation halts for a moment, before a deep bass and steady beat kicks back up, and the eerie sound effects continue. A sweet, but powerful voice kicks off the first verse with spooky lyrics that perfectly describe the feeling of Halloween. As the song builds, electric guitar riffs and creepy sound effects are heard, providing a greater dynamic to the production. As the lead vocalist sings the chorus, “There’s nowhere to run, there’s nowhere to hide// It’s comin’ to find you// Everyday is Halloween,” the listener is instantly transported into a Halloween fright zone, like Universal Horror Nights or Knott’s Scary Farm. The track is the perfect theme song to every Halloween party and effortlessly gets the listener in the mood for Spooky Season. “Burnin’” While “Burnin’” contains an electrifying production that emulates the power of Halloween, the track is less explicitly about the holiday. Rather, it shares the tale of an all-consuming love story—an overwhelming obsession. One filled with passion and longing, and maybe even a little danger. This makes me believe it is the first track on the album to dive into the Skeleton Sam and Seraphina love story. The song contains dark synth beats and sound effects that brings out this unrelenting desire that the lover feels. In the chorus, they sing: “I just keep burnin’ through the night// And I’ll keep comin’ til I make you mine// You belong to me for forever// We were meant to be together// Burnin’ til I make you mine.” Just like our main characters, the narrator is completely infatuated with their lover. In the end, they will be together forever and into death. “Bad Witches” “Bad Witches” is a lively track that is a perfect mix of bluesy-rock and alt-pop. The deep bassline and energetic percussion in the first verse instantly boost the energy of the album, going from a darker production to a more carefree one. Back to lyrics that are more blatantly Halloween, the song is about embracing one’s dark side. The cheeky lines throughout the track describe the protagonist as a witch that is fully aware of their bad behavior and loves it. In the pre-chorus, the lead singer chants: “Ooh, where my witches at?” This provides a very upbeat, lighthearted vibe to the song. Before going into the infectious chorus, they proudly announce that it “feels so good to be this bad.” This song is the perfect soundtrack to every person that feels happy to let go and be free, and it would be another great addition to the Hocus Pocus franchise. “Purgatory” feat. Monte Revolta The fourth track changes the pace of the album, providing the first comedy song of the project. “Purgatory” featuring Monte Revolta closely resembles Halloween classics like “Monster Mash” and “This Is Halloween” from The Nightmare Before Christmas. With its unique vocal style and bouncy production, it feels straight out of a Halloween musical. The lyrics share a story, like a musical monologue, sung by Monte Revolta. The catchy beat and the haunting production guide the listener, while his animated vocals describe purgatory and what it is like being stuck in the unknown. This song directly connects to the overarching storyline of the album, as the outro includes Monte Revolta saying: “Only thing good about bein’ down here is I don’t have to deal with Skeleton Sam. What do you mean he’s moving in? There’s nothing to sublet!” In my mind, this song plays out perfectly like an entertaining film scene. One that I would not hesitate to see a movie adaptation of with this detailed storyline. “Seraphina” From the moment I read the background of LVCRFT’s lore, and saw the track list, I instantly anticipated the song. Titled after Skeleton Sam’s love interest, “Seraphina” piqued my interest as I wondered whose perspective it would be from and what the lyrics would discuss. As the lead singer goes through the track, it provides an outsider’s perspective of the infamous character. Rather than being from Skeleton Sam or the woman herself, the song shares a third-party tale of Seraphina’s reputation. She is the type of woman that enthralls men with her radiant personality and her mysterious aura. The second verse holds the line that perfectly wraps up this idea: “Everybody’s fallin’ under her spell// And even the devil seems to know her well.” Seraphina is otherworldly, able to mesmerize anyone who crosses her path, making it no surprise that our main protagonist has dedicated his life to saving her. Alongside the sassy lyrics, the song contains an electrifying, jazzy rock production that highlights the singer’s raspy, yet soft vocals. Within just a few notes, the production captivates the audience and lulls them into the same trance that Seraphina emits. “Scream! (For Halloween)” feat. The Remains Once again, the album embodies the atmosphere of musical theater with “Scream! (For Halloween).” The track features The Remains, another special guest on the album that provides a new energy to the project. A heavy bass and steady beat guide the track, as both a male and a female voice sing the detailed lyrics that describes the perfect Halloween town. From mentions of vampires and zombies to the “blood scene” in their “ghoulish town,” the song evokes a deep feeling of horror nights in the listener. Furthermore, despite the fact that it is not explicitly stated, it is my interpretation that the two singers represent our two main characters: Skeleton Sam and Seraphina. This makes this track even that more interesting, as perhaps it is the two characters singing about their favorite holiday in the spooky village. Similar to “Purgatory,” this song paints a vivid picture in my mind of a fun, lighthearted Halloween movie. “Vendetta” “Vendetta” is another track that caught my attention from the title, as I always loved the meaning of this word. It is different than “revenge” or “grudge.” It is much more intense; more passionate; more fearsome. From the eerie intro to the dark-pop verse, I naturally gravitated to this song. It is a track that is not explicitly related to Halloween and would feed the darkness year-round. The ominous lyrics throughout the song details the narrator’s insatiable mission to carry out a dark vendetta. Through morbid lyrics such as “A knife to your neck is the kiss that you get” and “You should be afraid, there is no escape. You better run,” LVCRFT illustrates a gruesome storyline that instinctively intrigues every fan of the macabre. “Sound of Running” Immediately following a song with the hook, “you better run,” the eighth track continues with the theme. “Sound of Running” appears to be told from the perspective of the subject from “Vendetta,” as they narrate their attempt to escape the clutches of their villain. In the post-chorus, the lead singer proclaims: “Run, run, run, run, run, run, run, runnin’// Heart beatin’ like the sound of runnin.” This transports the audience into the headspace of the narrator, as they imagine themselves in their shoes. Perhaps, this storyteller is Skeleton Sam himself as he is fighting to save his long-lost love. Furthermore, “Sound of Running” contains an infectious melody that plays on repeat in the listener’s mind. The vocals provide a classic pop-punk vibe, similar to Panic! At the Disco and Fall Out Boy. While the instrumentation contains a more pop production, it still gives a nod to the genre, making it another track that can be listened to year-round. “Never Be Alone” With another bouncy, energetic track containing a jazz-like vibe, “Never Be Alone” is an instant mood booster. Once again, the listener is met with the sweet, powerful vocals heard on previous tracks. However, to match the bluesy vibe, the singer conveys a soulful tone behind her voice. This enhances the lively energy of the production, making it a song the audience will never forget. It contains a very catchy melody, reminiscent of the bubbly pop of Meaghan Trainor, while still maintaining the spooky elements through unique sound effects. Furthermore, the lyrics contain a similar message to “Burnin’”, sharing the idea that the subject belongs to the narrator, and they will do anything to ensure it stays that way forever. Utilizing the metaphor of things that go bump in the night, the protagonist tells their lover that they are always watching, and they will “never be alone.” From first glance, “Never Be Alone” seems to be a normal pop song, but upon further inspection, it is revealed to tell a more sinister story that is perfect for this Halloween album. “Late Night Rider” Just from the title alone, “Late Night Rider” made me think of the infamous Ghost Rider. From the moment the track began, this theory only intensified. The song kicks off with the unmistakable sound of a motorcycle revving, before a steady beat kicks in as the motorcycle speeds away. This quickly cuts out, before the male vocalist kicks off with the hook: “Late night rider// Feeding of the souls in the fire// Flames on the tires// Gas tank full of your darkest desires.” This is followed by captivating vocalizations that are met with vocals utilizing a deep lo-fi effect, emulating the sound of a demonic voice often found in horror pop-culture. This enhances the eerie atmosphere of not only the song itself, but also for the entire album. Then, the lead vocals return alongside an alt-rock production that slowly builds into the infectious keyboard solo. The sinister lyrics paint the story of an otherworldly creature coming out from the depths of Hell to bring terror into the hearts of his enemies. This perhaps indicates that the song is about our main protagonist, Skeleton Sam, and he is singing to anyone that has wronged him and his lover, Seraphina. Further building on the extensive lore of LVCRFT, “Late Night Rider” showcases the lengths he has gone through to be reunited with his one true love. “Feeling Like Halloween” Switching genres once again, “Feeling Like Halloween,” steps away from the rock vibe of the previous track, and fully embraces the sound of electro-pop. The song kicks off with a xylophone descending through all the notes before a synth beat hits, transitioning the song to the infectious production. The lead female singer introduces the verse with lyrics that fully encapsulate the essence of Halloween. The production with her pop-friendly vocals makes the song the perfect track to play at a Halloween dance party. At the end of the second verse, a male voice sneaks in to provide a short vocal riff that matches the vibe of “Purgatory” and “Scream! (For Halloween).” Our lead singer returns for another run through of the chorus, before the male artist raps in the bridge. The lyrics bring out the energy of the holiday, evoking emotions of both terror and amusement. “Feeling Like Halloween” takes the title literally and truly makes the audience feel like it is finally Spooky Season. “Fare Thee Well” LVCRFT ends the album with a song that is entirely unique from the rest of the project. “Fare Thee Well” kicks off with an old-timey production reminiscent of the 1940s. Even the vocals are slightly muffled, emulating the sound quality of the era. The female singer’s captivating vocals flawlessly capture the style of the era with her beautiful falsettos and impeccable vocal control. The background contains the effect of a soft crowd talking, like the singer is performing at a classy restaurant or an old hotel bar. This may tie back to “Seraphina,” indicating that she is the one singing this song. In the first verse of the fifth track, the lyrics read: “Mighta heard her in a church cathedral//In the ballroom at the Hotel Cecil// French Quarter, in the club.” With the effects and production of “Fare Thee Well,” LVCRFT ends the album on an eerie note. At the 2:28 mark, a loud bang interrupts the song followed by the crowd muffled screams. The sound immediately cuts out, while the song continues through with silence. It is difficult to tell, but it sounds like the venue was disrupted by shots being fired. Was it the villain that took Seraphina or did Skeleton Sam finally break-in and find his lover? With this open-ended conclusion, dedicated fans are left waiting on the edge of their seats while they anticipate the next chapter to LVCRFT’s detailed and fascinating lore. Throughout the twelve tracks, LVCRFT paints a cohesive story that brings out the spirit of Halloween. With tracks such as “Burnin’” and “Vendetta,” they crafted spooky songs that can be placed on dark-pop playlists year-round. Meanwhile, songs like “Purgatory” feat Monte Revolta and “Scream! (For Halloween)” feat. The Remains are cheeky Halloween tracks that epitomize the holiday and are perfect for a themed-musical. With each of these unique songs, crafted by an incredible team of co-writers, producers, and singers, LVCRFT has once again proved that they are the leading artist for Halloween music. Check out their socials for updates for the inevitable 2024 album, and make sure you take a deep dive into their past discography to get the full insight on Skeleton Sam! Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW LVCRFT: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | Website *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

We live in a world where we're not first judged by our personalities, how smart or talented we are, or what we do to make the world a better place. Instead, first impressions are based on how we look and what body type we have. We're conditioned from a young age about what we should look like, how much we should weigh, what kind of clothes to wear, how much makeup to put on, what hair style to have.... the list is endless and we become obsessive over being "perfect". Something that is unspoken in society is, what about the fact that we can't choose what we look like? We are born into our bodies without a natural choice of who we are on the outside. What we can control is who we are on the inside, and how we treat ourselves and the body we were given. "Body" by Isla Noon was a message written to herself, but is a song that many could use for themselves. It's a reminder that your body was a magical creation of your mother. You wouldn't ever hate your mother for the looks of her body, so why would you hate your own when your body looks like hers? It's time to break free from society's standards. Why does it matter what strangers think of you as long as you love yourself? "Body" has a very spiritual, alternative pop soundscape, meant to dig deep into your soul and help you release any negativity you have towards yourself. It can also be described as cinematic; the dynamic flow has a wide range of volume and emotion, still connecting in a way that makes perfect sense. Some moments are really ethereal and delicate, while other moments are so powerful and strong that it makes you hold your breath. Isla uses her hauntingly stunning voice as a guide through the euphoric experience and production that is "Body". “Growing up, it was always very important to me to be recognized for my ideas, for my creative work, for what I had to say. As I grew into a young woman I became uncomfortable with the sense that my physical form was preceding those things, that the way I was perceived and treated seemed to hinge on how I looked, dressed, and carried my body. At times, this body felt like a risky vehicle to be in. From an early age we are flooded with input on what is and isn’t ok about our bodies. It’s such an overwhelming intrusion on what is really a private relationship. Writing ‘Body’ was a step toward excavating some of that unwelcome noise from my own mind and extending a quiet peace offering to myself.” - Isla Noon Isla Noon is an alt. pop singer/songwriter from New Zealand. She started writing songs, singing and playing guitar from a really young age, leading her to pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Music at the University of Auckland. She was signed onto the indie record label, BigPop Studios in 2017 where she's been developing herself as an artist ever since. Over the past few years, she's been working closely with producer and engineer, Maude Minnie Morris. She released her debut single, "Summer in August", in 2020 followed by two more singles in 2021 titled "Talk About Us" and "I Need To Go Home". "Body" is Isla's first release since then, and her fourth official studio single. I can't wait to hear what else she has in store for us! Keep updated on Isla's journey by following below. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW ISLA:

Liv Nicholson has just released the title track to her second EP, “Now That You Know Me.” Grungy, angsty, and full of pent-up energy, “Now That You Know Me” tells that classic story about a person getting to know you, only to have that looming idea over your head that, once they truly know you, they’re going to leave you in the dust. When it’s happened to you enough times, you learn to anticipate it; with Nicholson’s latest release, it does the same. With all that anger simmering in the song, the power behind its lyrics is palpable, as well as its catchiness. Everything about "Now That You Know Me" is full-on high-energy, ramped-up pop. “Now That You Know Me” has that time-honored angry pop vibe– whenever I think back on my favorite loud, scream-worthy pop songs, they always consist of an awesome chorus, punchy percussion, and passionate vocals. “Now That You Know Me” has exactly that and more; the instrumentals are powerful, directing the song’s tone perfectly. The percussion and strings tend to follow a mellower tone during the verses, but go hard during the chorus– they’re explosive, fiery. When compounded with Nicholson’s vocals, intense and fervid, the entire song simply comes alive with her voice. Not to mention the lyrics, which take on an entirely different meaning every time they circle around; depending on how Nicholson sings, they oscillate between stormy and tentative. Especially with the line “Are you gonna up and leave/Now that you know me?”, this question can either be something shouted in the heat-of-the-moment or brought up in a more intimate, nervous setting. The malleable nature of this phrase captures the essence of uncertainty that "Now That You Know Me" shoots for perfectly. Nashville-based pop-rock artist Liv Nicholson is passionate about all things songwriting. She discovered this love for writing and performing music after she moved to Nashville from New York, enjoying the way good music is able to bring together and connect people from all walks of life. Nicholson’s music is both personal and relatable– she seeks to pair these traits with fun and upbeat instrumentals, creating the perfect kind of cathartic pop songs. Likewise, she’s inspired by artists who make similar music, such as Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, and Taylor Swift. Since graduating from the Belmont University Songwriting Program back in 2019, Nicholson has surrounded herself with songwriting, truly coming into her artistry. “Now That You Know Me” is her most recent release and is the title track of her second EP– a definite listen for anyone who loves that feel-good type of music, perfect for singing aloud. And, let’s be honest: that’s everyone. Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW LIV NICHOLSON:

Sometimes, the world of EDM can be so unique, and it can bring together so many different people. It’s a style of music that even I’m still breaking into. And with “Better Off (Alone, Pt. III),” I think I’ve found my gateway to the genre. This song, a collaboration between artists Alan Walker, Vikkstar, and Dash Berlin, is a third-part of a song Walker released back in 2016 called “Alone.” “Alone (Pt. II),” featuring artist Ava Max, was released in 2019. And now we’re here, with part three, and our expectations have definitely been met. Not to mention, Walker took Vikkstar, a popular YouTuber and newly minted music producer, under his wing to help create his first song. That, I feel, is seriously cool, and that's why I’m really looking forward to breaking more into the EDM community. EDM is a hit genre for events like raves and music festivals, and for good reason! It gets you up and dancing, there aren’t too many lyrics to remember, and it pumps you with adrenaline! If you listen to EDM in any way, you’ve likely had Alan Walker or Dash Berlin in your playlist at some point. Their sounds are so recognizable, yet everything they create sounds so incredibly fresh and unique. I think this song is also a good one to play on repeat. There are no harsh jump cuts as it rewinds to play again, so playing it on a loop honestly works really well. Personally, it’s my preferred way to listen to EDM. Alan Walker, a music producer and DJ from Norway, has been producing music since 2015 with his hit debut single, “Faded.” The song, which averaged over 1.7 billion Spotify streams and 3.5 billion Youtube views, left him with a BRIT Awards nomination for Song of the Year. His career has only skyrocketed since then, and he has become a household name in the EDM world. Dash Berlin is an EDM group that has been involved in the industry for the last 10 years. Over the years, Dash Berlin has created chart-topping hits for major artists, including The Chainsmokers, Zedd, and even Alan Walker himself. Finally, we have Vikkstar, whom, up until first hearing this song, I had only recognized from YouTube. He is a part of the Sidemen, a British influencer comedy group on YouTube. “Better Off (Alone, Pt. III)” is only the start of Vikkstar’s professional career. I can’t wait to see how far he goes in the industry. Written By Isabel Mays FOLLOW ALAN WALKER: FOLLOW VIKKSTAR: FOLLOW DASH BERLIN:

For writer and producer, KAYKO, memory is the driving force behind his pop/rock storytelling. "Michigan," his latest single, hinges the experience of seeing his ex find someone new on the memory of their vacation to meet her family in the midwestern state. The first verse simmers along with looping, processed claps, shimmering guitar, and restrained bass. The hard edges drop away in the pre-chorus, a moment of sheer vulnerability in sound and vocal delivery. KAYKO's sweet falsetto casts out the dark shadows of "Michigan," before the chorus shuts the lights out entirely. Layers of vocoder and thumps of electronic kick flash in the hazy production like strobe lights. The effect is a mercurial pop track that remains clear-eyed in each unique phase. The complex web of emotional reactions blend and blur without muddying the sound. KAYKO has always been an immaculate producer with polish and distinction, but "Michigan" is his most accomplished feat. "Michigan" charts a relatable experience to many who've been in committed relationships: seeing your ex move onto someone new. The single is at its best when KAYKO leans into specificity, such as asking about his ex's family. Reminiscing on meeting her younger cousins, he asks "have they moved on yet or do they ask about me?" The Nashville artist effectively conveys a soreness without relying on the immediacy of reactive rage. "Did he flood the kitchen accidentally when he showered?" The question is the song's most powerful lyric. It's the kind of detail with emotional depth and rich storytelling. It understands the complexities of personal memories shared in a relationship. "Why did you have to ruin Michigan?" "Michigan" isn't just about moving on, it's about rewriting memories and experiences that felts uniquely shared. Nashville-based writer and producer, KAYKO began sharing his alt-pop sound in 2021. His debut single, "Time Of Your Life," brought immediate interest and attention to his solo career. A year later, KAYKO released his debut album, Your Best Friend's Favorite Band. Cumulatively, the independent artist has garnered over one million streams (and over ten million streams for writing credits). Since the release of his first album, KAYKO has only turned up the heat on his career. "Michigan" is the eighth single released by the Nashville producer this year. KAYKO states that this single is his new favorite that he has released. Written By Andy M. FOLLOW KAYKO:

“Mediocrity” is a powerfully emotive anthem that invites rebellion against being considered “average” and embracing your own personal individuality and uniqueness. Joining forces with Devin Lewis, Jerusha pinpoints the societal impositions that confine someone’s worth to quantifiable achievements that often have nothing to do with someone’s character, growth, or motivations. Instead, Jerusha embraces her multifaceted talents through refreshing lyrics and bold ideas through energy that’s a mixture of Rina Sawayama & UPSAHL. From beautiful synths undercut with nostalgic undertones of beats reminiscent of the early 2010s, Jerusha’s gentle lilt inspires reflection and action. A captivating blend, the song’s strength is how Jerusha ebbs and flows to the beat, leisurely striding toward explosive climaxes. Oozing with honesty and raw emotion, Jerusha perfectly captures the anxieties of leaving a mark on the world yet doomed to feel ordinary and average, especially within a capitalistic society that emphasizes profits and narrow expertise over art and subjective matters. You may know Jerusha from acting amongst Brian Tyree Henry in Atlanta or performing on Broadway in a seven-award nominated show “The Prom”. But besides her career as an actress, she’s a beautifully talented musician who’s collaborated with some of the biggest producers in the world. Her debut single “Aquafina”, produced by Mike Woods and Boston of Rice N’ Peas during the pandemic to wild acclaim, and she’s quickly rising to the title of a “triple threat.” Though only her second single of 2023, "Mediocrity" is a treat to listen to, and keep tabs for Jerusha's much-anticipated debut album or EP. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW JERUSHA: *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

When we’re young, we tend to have a more positive outlook on the world. We have limited knowledge, and do not yet know the wrongs of people and things. As we grow and learn, the world can become duller. We also miss the days of no stress and no responsibilities. Francis On My Mind wants her listeners to know that this doesn't have to happen. Her new single, “This is My Time,” is an upbeat pop bop about embracing your inner child at any age. The world is your playground. Enjoy the freedom of your adult life and try to make the most of every day. Try to focus on the good in others and see the glass as half full, not half empty. “This is My Time” is an anthem about embracing your inner child, and it has the upbeat instrumentation to match. The first verse has a bright guitar and drums in the background as Francis On My Mind sings, “tell me how to find it, show me how to be.” This is the beginning of the story when she is feeling bogged down by adult life as we all are. At the end of the verse, she asks, “Is it okay if I never let go the way that I looked at the world when I did not know how it goes around? The chorus starts and the instrumentation is even brighter with the drums and happy synths. At the end of the second verse, Francis On My Mind declares “I know it’s okay if I never let go the way that I looked at the world when I did not know how it goes around.” In the chorus, she says “I’ll never leave my playground.” A playground is a place of great childhood memories. We still have a place to make memories. It’s just a lot bigger now. Francis On My Mind knows how freeing it is to be a child at heart, and she uses her musical gifts to persuade other listeners to do the same. Francis On My Mind is a singer/songwriter who uses music as a mode of storytelling. Her songs tell tales of life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. “This is My Time” is her seventh single of 2023. If you want to hear more of her, I recommend her other single, “Are You Happy?” It is another upbeat song with a great Spanish guitar at the core. The lyrics tell the story of picking up the pieces after being cheated on and lied to. I enjoyed reviewing the music of Francis on My Mind and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. Follow all of her socials down below to learn more about her and stay up-to-date on new music! Written By Kelli Dixon FOLLOW FRANCIS ON MY MIND