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“Noose” is a modern pop-punk jammer undercut with the steady pulse of trap. Starting from the bold title, the rest of the song is just as stark in comparison. Singing about a lover who takes and takes and takers, Bankston’s lyrics like “I wear my necklace like a noose just to get her attention” provide commentary on the sort of person who is much more concerned with the amount of attention that is received rather than the type of attention. It’s clear that no one should ever hurt their own mental or physical health for others, but the toxic pathways that the person reference’s mind takes them only view all attention as positive. Bankston’s honestly sarcastic lyrics add a bit of humor and self-actualization to the listener, evoking them to listen and consider whether they’re surrounded by people who put a noose on them or not. Bankston opens the track with a bang, from its dreamy beginning lulling you in, to a sudden muted electric guitar riff that’s then accompanied by trap 808s and drums. Bankston’s fusion of trap and rock is most evident in the catchy chorus, with mini climaxes systematically hitting the audience over and over again until we can’t help but sing along too. The heavy basslines and crisp hi-hats only accentuate the driving energy and raw power of rock, resulting in Bankston’s explosive and catchy track. Bankston cleverly ties into rock’s traditional themes of rebellion with his individualistic rebellion about someone who’s used to getting their way through any way possible. A man of many many talents, Bankston is an artist, a producer, a writer, and an engineer who has worked with the likes of Noah Cunane, Franz Roz, Kid Baron, Azealia Banks, and much much more. With this wealth of experience, Bankston only recently began to work on his solo career, releasing a small number of tracks to a wide amount of praise, reaching more than 10K+ streams. This year, Bankston takes up an admirable endeavor, pleading to release a new track within two months. Hearing the outcry from his fans last year, Bankston’s newest genre-breaking single has us counting the days until his next masterpiece is released. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW BANKSTON:

“Skyfall” is a catchy yet simultaneously poignant song. Would you mind sharing the meaning and inspiration behind it? Harzee: Thanks so much! Well, I'll say that the bottom line of my goal was to encapsulate the emotions of a person that could deal with loss and accept that love and life have to continue to thrive in even the most sudden or devastating love droughts. I wanted to write a song that allows the listener to feel encouraged by the sound of the music despite the lyrics being accepting and welcoming to a closing chapter. What was your reaction to learning that you had won the showcase for Tennessee Songwriters Week in Nashville? That’s quite an accomplishment! Harzee: I'm still as speechless as I was when they announced it on stage! I had a little doubt going into the whole experience since I'm currently growing into performing my own music. Seeing so many seasoned country artists able to sing and play their guitars in front of a packed crowd left me unsure of my cool outfit and backing track. However, I believe that being set apart from everyone else is what really got me this far. I'm just glad I got the opportunity to share my music with the world on a live stage! What led you to make the transition from your former alias, ALYX, to your current one, Harzee? Harzee: I get asked this question a lot, and also asked about my stage name in general. I made the transition from ALYX to HARZEE for a more futuristic taste and an eye-catching name sure to pave its own way. It's unique, it's not too silly, and it fits my aesthetic in terms of my artistic vision behind my music. As for the name itself, my last name is actually 'Harris', so I took the first three letters and added 'ZEE' for some "zing". Haha! What first sparked your interest in music, and when did you realize you wanted to pursue this full-time? Harzee: I can wholeheartedly say that my passion and inspiration for music and performing came from seeing Ariana Grande just doing her thing since I was a little kid. I've followed her since her Nickelodeon days, so being able to see her transition from an acting career to full on pop-star was thrilling to me. Through her music, I was able to discover what fun and love behind creating art in the studio really felt and sounded like. I realized I wanted to pursue music full-time when everyone started to notice I could sing my butt off. Now, I can't imagine a life where music isn't the center and main focus of my existence. If you could be the opening act for any band/artist, past or present, who would you choose and why? Harzee: If I could be the opening act for any artist, it'd be either Ariana or The Weeknd. They are both geniuses and icons, and seeing how they're changing the blueprint for the music industry is something anyone could only wish to experience! They deserve their flowers. I'd pass out if I met them. I swear it. What should fans keep an eye out for, what is next on the horizon for your musical journey? Haree: Right now, people should definitely be streaming Skyfall and helping me get my music out to more people who will love it. BUT, they can also be on the lookout for a music video I have planned, as well as my album, "A1DAY1", which I'm in the midst of creating. Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass FOLLOW HARZEE:

We’ve all had the urge to change ourselves, whether that be our internal mind or our physical appearance. Society makes us feel like we have to look and act a certain way in order to fit in, but the truth is we are perfect as we are. However, if there’s a change we want, we should do it for our own selves and not for other people. Nick de la Hoyde’s single, “Don’t Go Changing” is about finding someone so unique and hoping they never change for anyone but themselves. This is a song everyone can relate to and feel motivated by. We have to remember that change can be good but not for the sake of others. It should be for our own benefit because that’s what makes it worth it. Having that reminder is important because we sometimes feel like we have to change to be accepted. Learning to ignore other people’s opinions of us will make us feel much happier. Nick de la Hoyde’s song, “Don’t Go Changing” is an indie pop track with high-spirited vocals mixed with a fast melody and beat. It has a refreshing vibe formed by Nick’s powerful and motivating lyrics along with its catchy, upbeat soundscape that raises your adrenaline. His pop vocals enhance the music which are paired with a rock influenced tune that is head bopping worthy. It raises positive energy and drives away negative thoughts. He reminds us not to change for other people but for ourselves with his passionate message. Nick’s voice softens before the last chorus with gentle piano keys which creates an inspiring and serious experience for the listener. The song ends by picking back up the optimistic sound and his energetic, raw vocals. Nick de la Hoyde is a singer/songwriter based in Sydney, Australia. He was exposed to many global influences that made their way into his music. Nick and his older brother Joseph (ZUZU) who is also a producer and collaborator have made a sound that’s described as “simultaneously intimate, expansive, and engaging.” Nick was a multi finalist at the International Songwriting Competition; he has received Honorary Mentions for his songs, “Mirror Mirror,” “Love Takes Time,” and “Thinking Bout You.” His debut album, A Beautiful Mess won first place at the 18th Independent Music Awards 2020 in the “Pop Album Category.” He has performed at Rolling Loud in Miami collaborated with artists from across the world, including being partnered with brands such as Seiko Watches, Hard Rock Café, Puma, and many more. Nick de la Hoyde is surely an artist worth checking out! Written By Lyndsey Cheng FOLLOW NICK DE LA HOYDE:

“Sometimes I Wanna Cry” is a yell-your-heart-out anthem that examines the catharsis of all these built-up and complicated emotions inside of you Taking inspiration from Japanese rock, Sarina succeeded in creating a song that people can just vent to. Skipping Sarina’s usual flowery poetic or vivid lyrics, this song is just straightforward, looking at how sometimes, intense feelings of depression, sadness, and apathy can overwhelm us. We cry because of the good or bad, to release pent-up emotions, to know that we are alive, and to just take a buffer from the constant negative media that plagues anywhere we look. Sarina’s refreshing rage is an honest reminder that others have no right to criticize your feelings, and it’s ok to cry, yell, and scream healthily. Sarina didn’t even know the charm that this song held over others. Writing the song “as a sort of cathartic release…only [writing] the chorus and [posting] it to Instagram on a whim”, she was pleasantly surprised by the sudden influx of views and the subsequent clamor for the song to be released. The song quickly grew from a simple cathartic release to a stark look at how emotions are processed and looked up in today’s age. The subsequent music video was beautifully shot, interspacing shots of her lounging in her bed with shots of her as a mime, trying to break through the invisible way of social normalcy. Fueled by a passion for self-expression, Sarina is continuously on the road to discovery and creation, establishing her genre-less and borderless musical skills with creativity. As all of her music, artwork, and production is produced under her own direction, her performances promise a cohesive experience that embodies her own vision and outlook on life. Currently based in Tokyo, Sarina began by releasing original music on Instagram. After hitting 2.3 million views with one video, her follower count increased dramatically, from 13.6K to 130K within two weeks. Talk about a blowup. Since then, Sarina has only reached higher heights, garnering worldwide attention from Asia, US, and the UK as a musician and also her additional talents as a model and influencer. Her next single, “Melancholy Roads No More” is set to release soon. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW SARINA:

Photo credit: Gabe Taylor I love “Speed Limit!” What a beautiful song; it feels like the dance of navigating through life’s challenges, finding balance, and learning to trust in yourself and your abilities. Can you tell us what this song means to you? Carson: There are some times when things have just felt overwhelming, and I've had to learn to let go of things sometimes. I think this is something everybody goes through at some point in their life, and it can be hard. When I was nine, I joined one voice children's choir, but I had to give up playing soccer to do it. I had to let go. That's what "Speed Limit" means to me. You are the youngest artist I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing for Pop Passion! As someone younger, what unique challenges have you faced trying to establish yourself in the industry? Carson: I’ve had problems with people not taking me seriously because of my age. Once, I was handing out flyers for an upcoming show I had, and some people would take a flyer, glance at it, and then throw it in the trash. One person even said to their friend after taking a flyer: “This is garbage. We’re not going to see some kid.” So it's hard in some ways. But it can also be a strength because people see a kid, think “Oh, this should be cute...”...and then see me perform and are just blown away. What was it like winning the contest and being featured in the song “One Bad Apple” for Donny Osmond’s Vegas show and what are some of your favorite memories from that experience? Carson: I was so excited. I had heard of Donny and heard some of his songs, and I thought it was so cool that I would be in his show. My favorite memory is when we went to see it, I was not expecting to get to meet him. But after the show, his manager took us back to the green room to say hi. It was so cool! We did the dance together. It was an amazing experience. He was really nice and also gave me some really good advice. You’re a multi-instrumentalist, and I know you play guitar; what other instruments do you play, and are you planning on learning anything else? Carson: I play keys, drums, and bass. I would love to learn pretty much any instrument, but at the top of my list of instruments to learn is probably the mandolin. Photo credit: Gabe Taylor I see that as a member of One Voice Children’s Choir, you’ve been able to tour and have performed for stadiums filled with fans. What’s your favorite venue, and where do you hope to perform in the future? Carson: I once performed on a ship in Japan, which was really cool! I also recently got to sing the national anthem at a Utah Jazz basketball game. But my favorite venue I have sung at is The Velour, in downtown Provo. A venue I hope to perform at someday would be The Hollywood Bowl. Who are some of your biggest musical influences and inspirations? Carson: My favorite band of all time is Journey! Other musical influences include OneRepublic, Alec Benjamin, and Ed Sheeran. Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass FOLLOW CARSON:

Recovering from heartbreak is a difficult process many of us understand. If you've been through a bad breakup, you know how hard it is to manage the pain it causes. Dylan Dunlap addresses these emotions head-on with his latest single, "Right." After going through a breakup himself, Dunlap decided to tackle his feelings in this song. His breakup pushed him to take better care of himself, both physically and mentally. The lack of closure pushed Dunlap to find it on his own and write through the pain. This heartfelt ballad is a relatable listen, giving a personal and authentic view into Dunlap's journey to find closure and self-love. "Right" takes us on an emotional rollercoaster, tugging at our heartstrings from beginning to end. The beginning of the song feels vulnerable and delicate until the impactful build into the chorus. Dunlap's voice then soars over ethereal electronic sounds, causing goosebumps from the beauty and rawness of the combination. "Right" highlights Dunlap's impressive vocal range and songwriting ability. This track is a powerful anthem for anyone struggling through a tough breakup or tackling feelings of self-doubt. Even if you aren't struggling with these emotions, "Right" is a touching song full of gorgeous moments that anyone can get lost in. Dylan Dunlap is a Los Angeles native singer-songwriter. He creates lush blends of pop, folk, and electronic music, influenced by artists like Mumford & Sons and Coldplay. A talented musician, Dunlap has enjoyed much streaming success. In 2019 and 2020, he released the hits "If That's Alright" and "Who Would Have Thought." Dunlap has since signed with Nettwerk Music Group and released a pair of EPs—Soldier On in 2021 and Stranger's In My Head in 2022. Wearing his heart on his sleeve in his creations, Dunlap uses his platform and music to advocate for mental health awareness. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW DYLAN DUNLAP:

Devon Cole’s “Call U After Rehab” is her most vulnerable track yet. It’s a love song, but the person she’s really loving is herself. This song is about taking time off from a relationship in order to heal internally and take care of yourself. Love can be a bandaid we put over our scars, but just because they’re covered, it doesn’t mean they’re properly treated. It can be terrifying to be alone and face your inner demons, but the moment you drop the crutches and step out of the safety of someone’s arms, you give yourself the chance to have the most healthy, forgiving, desired relationship with yourself. Without truly knowing who you are, accepting your flaws, yearning to grow and be better, you will never be satisfied in another relationship. As clich é as it may be, love begins within. Devon Cole uses rehab synonymously with whatever each individual needs healed or internally worked through. It is never selfish to put yourself first. The relationship we have with ourself is the one we must cherish and put above all else, and the one’s who stick around and wait for our healthy, happy return are just icing on the cake. Following her hit singles like “W.I.T.C.H” and “Hey Cowboy,” “Call U After Rehab” demonstrates Devon Cole’s ability to let her walls down and release a much softer, raw track. She uses her platform to uplift her listeners and let them know they are not alone. She profoundly proclaimed, “If anybody, even one person, finds solace in my music, if it lifts them up even a little bit, then I will have done my job,” and you can feel the sincerity and desire to help others through the weight of every word. Her voice has an effortless power that melds perfectly with her lyrics that seem right out of our journal. Devon stepped out of her upbeat, dance-in-the-kitchen comfort zone and graced us with a vulnerable track that is sure to resonate with her audience. Although it is a much softer track, her work is so captivating and relatable that we will surely still pour ourselves a glass of wine and dance around our kitchen to “Call U After Rehab” as the purest form of self-care. Devon Cole is a 24-year-old, alt-pop powerhouse. She first stepped on the scene when her remix of “Blurred Lines” went viral with her much-needed corrections of the lyrical wrongs. She is a singer/songwriter who uses her gift to empower women and sneak social truths into catchy pop songs that we can’t help but put on repeat. She has accumulated millions of streams across all the major platforms, and she has received critical acclaim from tastemakers BUSTLE and Billboard, and she was nominated for 2023 Juno’s ‘Breakthrough Artist of the Year’. With a major in psychology and the ability to inspire and really make a change through her music, this new, softer side is just the beginning for what’s to come. Follow Devon Cole on her social media below, and catch her live at one of her upcoming shows! Written By Grace Chapman FOLLOW DEVON COLE:

Ahh, the California dream. The state where everyone there is known for saying, “ Dream big, anything can happen here .” Anything, huh? What about a relationship where you’re deeply in love with someone, but there’s a bump in the road that's blocking the relationship from pursuing into something much larger, and making it the real deal? theoneDNA’s, “ California Dreamin ’”, is a song that revolves around this issue, but he makes it very clear that he's willing to put in the effort and make it work for the person he loves. These two being together physically would be his dream come true. But right now, it seems like it isn’t working out due to a factor that isn’t specified in the song. However, he makes it very clear that he’s committed to this person and has high hopes for it working out in the end due to the effort he’s putting into it. You’ll always be willing to make things work for the right person, and that's just who the type of person theoneDNA is. In this pop-rock hit, you can catch the drums and piano. You can also catch how theoneDNA has fallen in love in a way that he’s never been before, to the point where he’d be lost without the person he’s craving to be with. He says, “ If I can’t have you, then I really don’t know what I would do ” and then adds that he's not confused about how he feels about this person because its “ been years since I've loved like how I do .” Either there's a big distance that's keeping them apart, meaning that they’re in a long-distance relationship and aren’t sure if it's going to work out, or it could be numerous other problems that's keeping them from physically seeing each other. We know that they’re not physically together, but are still in love and want each other because he admits that he’s been “ fantasizing ” about their romance. He visualizes them, “C ruising down the highway, going on our perfect date ”, and then afterwards says, “ I want us to be real .” He wanted that fantasy to be real and he's committed to making that happen! Although things seem to be difficult right now, he does show that he's going to put in the effort for them to see and be with each other. A few examples are when he expresses himself saying, “ I’m tired of the wishful thinking, I want us to make it real ”, “ I’m not confused ”, and, “ Committed to making it last .” theoneDNA is a singer and songwriter that was born Australia, but is based in Orange County, California. He uses his music as a platform to honor and acknowledge inclusion, authenticity and to break down barriers as an AAPI+ artist. Ontop of this, you might have seen him on Season 2 of the Vietnamese singing competition show, “VSTAR” where he was placed in the Top 27, as well as being featured in the magazine/media company, VoyageLA. He also has a couple of other songs released, such as “ Kiss Me Again ” and “ Boy I Got U on My Mind .” Make sure to follow theoneDNA on his musical journey with the links below, and check out his latest single, “ California Dreamin ’”' out now on all streaming platforms! Written By Sneet Efrem FOLLOW theoneDNA:

Have you ever had a person stuck in your head? In “Tattoo in My Brain”, AIRBEAR details having an ex who was the one that got away. The singer describes as though the person is tattooed in his head, permanent and constant. Now that his ex is gone all he can do is reminisce over their past memories. The vocalist contemplates if their former partner is also thinking about when they were together, before he comes to the resolution that he will always think of their past. Although the topic of the song is a little melancholic, the fun and catchy beat keeps the single light. Overall, this is a vibrant song that you will have stuck in your head as soon as you play it - just like a tattoo! The single begins with low synths that blend beautifully with the singer’s low and slightly raspy voice. As the chorus approaches, the beat fastens before an electric melody starts. A standout moment on the track would be the bridge and interlude where the funky and intoxicating melody is highlighted. During the bridge, the instrumentals fade and the vocalist shows off his stunning deep voice before the playful and lively beat returns. After the final chorus, the beat continues and then it fades with the final lyrics, “Like a tattoo in my brain” emphasizing the song’s meaning. Ultimately this is an incredible track with unforgettable lyrics and a groovy beat. AIRBEAR is an artist from Sacramento, California. The musician felt inspired to write his first song after watching his favorite TV show ” Seinfeld “. He records produces and writes his music at his home studio. The vocalist released his debut single in April 2021 titled, “Kings and Queens” which has a light electric indie pop sound. Since his first track, he has released three songs including “Tattoo in My Brain”. Although he has only released a few singles, AIRBEAR has close to 700 monthly listeners and over 18,000 listens on his song “Wake up and Find” on Spotify. “Wake up and Find” is an upbeat and electric indie pop bop. Altogether, AIRBEAR is an up-and-coming artist that you need to be on the look out for. Written By Stephanie Berning FOLLOW AIRBEAR:

I am in love with your new single “Flannel”! As someone who recently moved away from home, your incredible lyrics and storytelling was so moving! What are you hoping people who listen to this new single take away from it? Sydney: This song in a nutshell is about growing up - one of the most complicated, beautiful, exciting and heartbreaking things to do! This song is about recognizing that people (yourself included) can, will, and should change, and moving through the nostalgic emotions that come with that truth. One of the bigger life moments that can come with growing up is the decision to leave home, wherever that may be. For me, growing up in Maine I always felt a push to leave home and explore other people/places, but at the same time felt such a gravitational pull to the people, the way of life, and the version of myself that often felt most authentic "back home." My hope, always, is that people will hear my music and feel that a part of them is heard or understood. I hope Flannel wraps my listeners up in a warm hug and lets them know it's okay to stumble through all the emotions that come with growing up. Can you take us through your songwriting process? And do you have any tips you’d like to pass on to aspiring musicians looking to start writing their own work? Sydney: I would identify myself as a songwriter before anything else, meaning my music often starts with lyrics. I also don't typically designate time to songwriting, but rather when inspiration strikes, that becomes my designated time. My notes app is FULL of random lines and lyrics, as well as fully flushed out songs. I'm a big runner and find that my runs are often interrupted by a thought or line that I love so much that I have to stop and write it down! I would say to anyone writing music that the magic happens when you are honest and tell your own truth. That's when music becomes the most authentic in my opinion. It's a vulnerable thing to do but it is oh so freeing! What is your current most played song? The song you belt while driving or sing in the shower! Sydney: I can NOT stop listening to Kelsea Ballerini's EP 'Rolling up the Welcome Mat,' This collection of songs was so incredibly raw and honest which is all I aspire to be as a songwriter. Mountain with a View and Penthouse I particularly enjoy screaming in the car :) I know you’re from New England and home means a lot to you, so what are your favorite things to do or places to visit when you’re home? Anywhere you’d recommend? Sydney: I am so biased toward New England LOL - I absolutely adore the "simple" life that comes with backroads, local restaurants, knowing your neighbor and being surrounded by nature. I love hiking and camping; there's nothing like cracking a few local IPAs, getting away from technology and sleeping under the stars (I am definitely biased towards the craft beer scene in New England, too). What do you hope to one day achieve in your music career? Hopefully one day you can look back at this knowing you accomplished just that :) Sydney: I just really want to create music that resonates with people. It sounds simple but I know how much certain artists and songs have picked me up and moved me through both difficult and joyous times. I'd love to grow an audience base that knows I am going to give them something honest and hopefully validate emotions for them. And to Noah Kahan wherever you are, I'd love to write a song with you. What can we expect from you next? Your music really does feel like a “warm and inviting” hug and I can’t wait for you to release more! Sydney: Thank you!! I'm so glad you feel that way (and hope others do too)! I am releasing four songs over the first half of 2023, and I would describe them as an ode to your 20s. They cover themes of heartbreak, nostalgia, estrangement... all things I've encountered in this decade and I'm sure others have too. I didn't always have an outlet for hard times I went through, but I'm finding my own healing through revisiting these moments. And while I tend to write more "emotional" songs, my next song after Flannel is as happy as they come!! It's about finding the one, which I feel so lucky to have found. It has made all the hard times worth it. It's a party and I can't wait to release it! Interviewed By Sarah Curry FOLLOW SYDNEY:

Some people are so eager to be loved that they lose sight of themselves. These people absorb and mirror their love interest or partner’s entire being to the extent of self-neglect. This absorption starts small; you adopt their hobbies, favorite cuisines, and maybe even some of their attire. But then you begin adopting their worldview, aspirations, and needs. Your emotional state falls to the wayside in this unhealthy pursuit of romantic love. If you don’t know anyone like this in your life, then you might be this person. Or, the third option, you’re recovering from being this person. "Fake My Feelings" by Ponette and featuring Torine reflect this third option. Listen to "Fake My Feelings" (ft. Torine) by Ponette here. “Fake My Feelings” is an Electro-Pop single that showcases the self-reflection we go through post-breakup as a part of the recovery process. It’s a confessional that’s told through a specific order: the verse acts as an admission, the pre-chorus is the self-loathing that’s experienced while mirroring, and the chorus is the introspection that provides moments of clarity. The song’s opening shrouds listeners in dreamy synths and heavy, electronic drums to put listeners into a contemplative frame of mind. The first verse that’s dropped is an admission of excessive eagerness: “He says he’s all about aesthetics / Well, I guess I am too, then / And I don’t care about what they think / I’ll do anything to please you”. This is an example of how absorption plays out. Then, the self-loathing follows up in the pre-chorus. Within it, it’s revealed to listeners that they ultimately “hate” themselves for behaving this way, but they can’t help it because they think it’ll get them closer to being loved. The chorus then cuts through with our introspection. While the guitar-laden instrumentation soars in the background, they begin to question why they play into this act when it’s known to cause confusion later down the road. Even remarking that it makes them lose the ability to recognize their own emotional needs and desires. Most importantly, though, they’ll never know if the romantic connection they find themselves in will ever be “real” since they suppressed their own identity to mirror the partner’s. The song then slows back down to the catchy melody that it began with to deliver an admission of awareness in the third verse; behaving this way is much more comfortable than revealing yourself for who you are. If the partner rejects you while mirroring, they’re rejecting the image of themselves that you’re projecting. But if they reject you without the mirroring, they’re rejecting you – and that’s a hard reality to cope with. After another confessional sequence is fulfilled, we come to a bridge filled with light-hearted synths and thoughts on mirroring. It ultimately makes them feel like their sense of self is nonexistent within the connection. In cases like this, altruism gets taken to a whole new level; in being selfless and overly invested in the partner, we begin to neglect our emotional needs and in turn, ourselves. Ponette and Torine are Norwegian singers and songwriters with similar backgrounds. Both came from smaller communities that valued the façade of good appearances over well-being. Which, I think, makes the discographies of the two artists all the more poignantly impactful for listeners to consume. Over the years, Ponette has gained both local and international recognition for their dark, electronic-pop singles since the release of their 2021 debut album, Nude. Currently, Ponette is working on their upcoming album, Part I, where “Fake My Feelings” is a little taste of what’s to be expected on there. Meanwhile, Torine has been making music since 2019, with their debut EP, UNHOLY, being released in 2022. The EP serves as an illustrative extension of Torine’s past and present. If you’ve enjoyed this introspective trip as much as I have, show the artists some virtual love in the form of streams, likes, and follows. Written by Giavanna Gradaille FOLLOW PONETTE: FOLLOW TORINE:

We all have trouble sleeping sometimes; it’s one of the most frustrating things. You’re stuck there lying in bed, looking around in your room in the middle of the cold, dark night unable to fall asleep. Having a person by your side, specifically a lover to sleep next to you is an ideal situation. That shift can be difficult when they’re no longer there, especially if you were used to it. Jack Vallier’s single, “Insomnia” talks about the struggles of sleeping after a breakup and learning to accept it. Thinking back to when you used to have that significant other by your side and being able to fall asleep in their arms makes you envy your past self. But now, it’s only a memory. Jack Vallier’s “Insomnia” has a soft, melodic soundscape accompanied by his gentle and beautiful vocals. The passion in his tone creates an impact for the listener to feel his soul with his meaningful lyrics. The emotional lines, “I was in love with her / Now I got insomnia,” are captured perfectly to emphasize that feeling of loss and loneliness. His singing is filled with raw emotion that emphasizes his message to the listener. It helps us understand the importance of Jack's words. The tempo picks up in the second chorus along with Jack’s voice increasing in notes to assist the meaning of the track; this change highlights the suffering of having insomnia and longing of the other person. The instrumental towards the outro is slightly upbeat mixed with a dreamy ambience to showcase the end of the song and the drift off to bed. Jack Vallier is singer/songwriter from Bournemouth who now lives in London. He has amassed over 40 million streams on Spotify with his first few EPs. His track, “Rebekah” has been featured on BBC Radio 1 as Tune of the Week. He then went on tour supporting Dermot Kennedy across the UK and Europe performing over 40 shows. Jack’s song “Insomnia” was his exciting return after being diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. After the release, he will present a bi-monthly songwriting showcase night, “Show The Credits” which starts on April 4th at The Camden Club; FJ Law, Sfven, Sody and Lauren Aquilina will join him in the show. Make sure to check Jack Vallier out! Written By Lyndsey Cheng FOLLOW JACK VALLIER: