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  • Review: "How It Feels to Lose a Friend" - Jenny Baker

    Photography: Holy Smoke Photography | Alissa Wyle Editing: Jenny Baker “How it Feels to Lose a Friend” is the newest single from Jenny Baker , a song that details the frustration, confusion, and sadness of the loss of a friendship through several metaphors. The lyrics are clever and creatively written, describing how Baker is feeling now that they don’t have this person in their life anymore. Some people have said that a friendship breakup sometimes can hurt worse than a romantic breakup, something many can relate to. People can relate to the overall theme of the song and the individual lines themselves, and can also apply to them to a friendship breakup altogether. This is a very upsetting experience and Baker accurately portrayed it in her song. “How it Feels to Lose a Friend” is a classic take on the indie pop genre and a creative take on easy-listening. Elements from each genre are combined to make this very lovely song, and the tempo is primarily slow, rarely changing throughout, making each section of the song flow smoothly into one another. Baker has amazing vocals and they pair perfectly with the production and instrumentation styles of the song. She is able to change octaves quickly and flawlessly. The single has a drum beat that has a different tempo than the rest of the production, but is still able to go very well with the rest of the music. Overall, “How it Feels to Lose a Friend” is such a beautiful and original song.  Jenny Baker is a music artist and an alum of both Berklee and Harvard. She began her music career in August 2021 with the release of her debut single “Historical Fiction”. She then released her debut EP The Day You’re Gone  in February 2023. She has released other amazing music as well, including her sophomore EP Person That You Need , which came out in June 2024. She is very philanthropic and donates some of the money she makes from her music to different charities. She has performed her music live in the past, including at The Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles, California. Jenny Baker is an incredible and very talented artist! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW JENNY BAKER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "The Rest Is Noise" (ft. Claudia Kate) - Apteekii

    Apteekii's lead single off their second EP Reset portrays a love is so intense that the world seems to fade into the background. "The Rest Is Noise" featuring Claudia Kate starts off with introspective questioning as the speaker reflects on their connection with their partner, alluding to feelings of loss and confusion. Through this uncertainty, the chorus echoes words of reassurance, saying "know that I am yours alone". Taking listeners through the depth of the speaker's connection with their partner, the song says "you're me when I don't know myself, the secrets and the scars." This deeply meaningful admission explores the way being similar to the person you love can mean being fundamentally understood by them. This immersive track is calm and captivating at the same time, capturing the way love and devotion can sooth and ground you. Resonant piano chords open the track as ambient instrumentals, percussion, and layers of vocals offer a floaty and immersive feeling to the tune. Matthew Moore's soft vocals take the lead in the first verse before harmonizing with Claudia Kate's rounded, soothing singing. The singers alternate taking the lead in the first two verses, sounding like an intimate conversation before the vocals merge in the chorus supporting a shared message of belonging. Vocalizing, electric guitar, and rhythmic percussion emerge as the song goes on, allowing listeners to sink into their atmospheric tone. This track is perfect for those moments when you simply want to sit in emotion with its soothing blend of electronic and acoustic instrumentals. Apteekii is a band from Scotland and England that started as a pandemic project to foster brightness and creativity. The band consists of Matthew Moore, Mark Hatcher, and David Gane who work together on music and lyrics that showcases the healing power of song. Collectively, the group has established careers across the field of media, with Moore's expertise in music technology, Hatcher's vast experience in broadcast media, and Gane's instrumental work supporting artists like Beabadoobee , Lana Del Rey , and Clean Bandit . They released their debut EP in 2021, receiving acclaim from platforms like BBC Introducing and The Unsigned Guide . Apteekii are releasing their second EP Reset. Check out the links below to keep up to date with their music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW APTEEKII: Instagram   | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Top 10 New Songs To Crash Out To

    MAYHEM cover art photoshoot director: Frank Lebon HURRY UP TOMORROW cover art illustrated by: Jean-Michel Basquiat , Frank Miller , Hajime Sorayama , & Harmony Korine If you're even slightly up-to-date with current internet trends, one that you most likely have seen or have heard of is the term "crashing out". It's when something so frustrating happens that you can't help but freak out and release all of your emotions. This has been translated into music for decades, even before the term became popularized, mainly with heavy bass and loud, emphasized instrumentation. Here is a list of just a few songs that are able to replicate this feeling. MARINA - “CUNTISSIMO” The beat and tempo of this song is perfect to go absolutely crazy to. This is supplemented by the string arrangement that plays throughout the production; the strings following along the bassline and MARINA’s echoing vocals give off a beautifully haunting vibe full of power, lyrically and sonically. If you were in a nightclub, the volume would be turned up, the lights and lasers would be flashing all over, and everyone would start crashing out along with you. The mix of electronic and power pop genres create this intense musical atmosphere that are overwhelmingly empowering and electrifying, which is what MARINA’s music is known for, “CUNTISSIMO” and her upcoming album PRINCESS OF POWER being no exception. Halsey - “safeword” It’s without a doubt that Halsey has mastered the art of making pop rock music. Her past songs “You asked for this”, “Alice of the Upper Class”, and “3am” are just a few examples of her impeccable and diverse artistry, another being “safeword”, her most recent single. A mix of rock genres that were popular in different decades, the song is fast-paced and full of energy; the perfect addition to a playlist while running a marathon. Halsey sings in a high octave throughout the song, which only contributes to the upbeat rock soundscape. It’s a great song to crash out to because it sounds like it was made to have that exact effect. Lady Gaga - “Perfect Celebrity” MAYHEM  is one of the albums that contain a song on this list where you could really crash out to the whole track list. One that stood out the most from Gaga’s most recent LP was “Perfect Celebrity”. Having been in the spotlight since a young age, she’s been attacked left and right by haters and misogynists who are unable to see her creative vision and look down on her for being who she is, even when that’s not “perfect” or “how a woman should act” in their eyes. The anger that radiates through the lyrics of Gaga being fed up by this is all too relatable. Combined with her sturdy vocals, pulsating production, and aggressive instrumentation, this song definitely had to be on this list. HANNAHBELLA - “BASELINE” The songs starts off with industrial pop production and a heavy bass synth. Soon after, a cacophony of drum fills begins to play as the next verse approaches. Then the drums come back and are amplified, and are much more prominent than before. The volume is high and HANNAHBELLA sings quickly and has a very strong and impactful singing voice. Elements of mystical sound effects are layered with the vocals and instruments, a feature that is commonly found in HANNAHBELLA’s music. She is immensely talented and makes amazing music, and its no surprise a song as striking as “BASELINE” is a part of her discography. Miley Cyrus - “Something Beautiful” “Something Beautiful” is a song you don’t expect to make a complete 180 a minute into listening to it. Throughout the beginning, it’s slow and contains elements of smooth jazz and easy listening. Other than Cyrus’s vocals, which can always leave a room paralyzed with how flawless they are, you don’t realize until she sings the line "The great golden bomb, bomb, bomb". The production explodes into a spellbinding symphony of noise - bass, electric guitars, synths, you name it. The feeling you get when you first hear it is indescribable. This happens once more and finishes out the rest of “Something Beautiful”. Then you realize that the title track of Cyrus’s upcoming album would of course be a wonderful masterpiece of music. Artemas - “i guess u never really cared about me” The best way to listen to this song is to imagine you’re walking through a forest at night. You’re exhausted and trying to find your way back home, but there’s no light. All of a sudden, you begin experiencing hallucinations. Throughout the tall, thick woods you see visions of the past, swirling in various neon colors, while the rest of the forest is in the same shade of blue the cover art is. The production is astounding and sounds like you’re being sucked through a vacuum in the space and time continuum, and now you have to relive through the worst moments of a relationship that treated you terribly and was the worst part of your life, and you start crashing out right then and there, creatively and effectively personifying the song. fib - “You Ruined Everything” There’s a countless number of reasons why this song needs to be on every kind of playlist. It’s amazingly produced and sung on, and a mix of pop and rock reminiscent of 90s/2000s music of those genres. The filter effect on the vocals also contributes to this, adding a feel of pop punk/garage rock, making this song creatively made and sonically diverse. Whether that fits the main theme of your playlist or not, you should just add it anyway. The blips of production where the instrumentation builds up and becomes more intense abruptly fits into it being on a crashing out playlist. “You Ruined Everything” is a single off of fib’s upcoming album Heavy Lifting . KennyHoopla - "NORTHERN LIGHTS//" As aptly referenced by the cover art, “NORTHERN LIGHTS//“ appears to be about the harm of animals involving hunting, especially deer. The lyrics are from the perspective of a deer, especially with the verse “Say that it can’t feel? // When you shoot to kill // Now you’ve got your meal”. Anger is a very acceptable response to acknowledging a song like this, the descriptive lyrics being an accurate portrayal of a deer in the line of danger. The “lights” of the title probably signify those of an oncoming car, car accidents being how deer often are killed. All of this shows that KennyHoopla is a very talented songwriter and musician, the production and instrumentation being outstanding as well. Heith - "The Scrollkeeper" The complex elements of the production take the forefront of this song. An intricate system of layered beats, synths, sound effects, and instruments are intertwined to make a single that showcases the creativeness and originality of Heith’s music and the noise rock genre. The soundscapes are tantalizing, with each section of the song sounding different from the last, as though “The Scrollkeeper” is telling a story through music. The song features a guitar at the beginning, but fades away as the electronic components of the production take control and the synths are maximized to create this unique, never heard of before sound that is sure to change everyone’s perspective on music; especially with the release of Heith’s upcoming album Escape Lounge . The Weeknd - "Cry For Me" While Abel Tesfaye’s new album came out back in February, this song is so extraordinary that it had to be added to this list. The world shook when Hurry Up Tomorrow  dropped, especially when it followed the single “São Paulo” with Anitta, another song on the LP you could crash out to. The bassline in “Cry For Me”, alongside the sound effects, and the classic 80s disco-esque synths Tesfaye utilizes in most of his music come together to create a crazy dance song that portrays his timeless music style while adding another element to it that, as aforementioned, will make you crash out. While listening to “Cry For Me”, there are times you feel like you’re floating in space, and other times where you want to rush to the dance floor and go crazy. The playlist "New Songs To Crash Out To" contains these songs as well as ten more of varying genres that still maintain a pop presence for those who love pop music and the genres that can easily blend into it. If you feel like you're about to crash out or are already crashing out, these songs are a must-listen. Written By Ashley Adams Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

  • Review: "Are You Happy Now (feat. Linney) [Acoustic]" - SABAI

    The period after a breakup is one filled with confusion and grief, but there's always a pathway towards acceptance. “Are You Happy Now [Acoustic]” by SABAI (feat. Linney) is a powerful track about learning how to cope with heartbreak and learn how to move on and let go. The lyrics in this song describe a relationship that wasn’t always black and white, meaning that it was more complex than what was on the surface. This chapter in their life is over, and their story has finally come to an end. Their relationship is only a haunting memory that won’t go away. The lyric “Your ghost sleeps on the right side of my bed” is showing that although this person isn’t physically there, they are there in every other aspect. Their presence is hard to erase, and it’s easy to get caught up in all the previous memories of what they once had. The song shows that it’s easy to get caught up wondering if the other person has fully moved on from the relationship, or wonder if they are happy while you’re the one struggling to let go. There’s a certain amount of strength it takes to keep pushing forward even though you’re missing someone who you also might resent because they hurt you. There are two different versions of the song, the original and the acoustic. The acoustic sounds like an entirely different track than the original. The acoustic one is very slow and has pretty elements. The piano is softer, and you can hear subtle touches of the violin. I wanted to compare the two, so I went back and forth to see if I found any noticeable differences. The production on the original is more amplified, and the buildup is very drum heavy. There’s an electronic-techno component that gives the song a whole new vibe and direction than the acoustic track. There were vocal augmentations (especially with the pitch) that weren’t found on the acoustic. The acoustic sounded very airy and ethereal. The acoustic version sounds like one I would listen to if I wanted calm and emotional music, and the original sounds like a song I’d play all summer long. SABAI is a Canadian producer who is taking over the music scene. With over 595,000 monthly listeners on Spotify from all around the world, he’s proven that no matter where you’re from, you can always form a connection through music. SABAI means “comfortable”, which is a perfect way to describe him as an artist. As a producer, he specializes in future bass and house, but also has pop, rock, and R&B influences sprinkled throughout his music. Linney, who is featured on the track, has 680,589 monthly listeners on Spotify. It’s clear with a voice like hers, she’s a rising star. She has the perfect tone for the techno-dance music scene, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for her. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see SABAI’s name everywhere coming soon, he’s definitely one to look out for. Check out “Are You Happy Now [Acoustic]” and give it a listen! Written By Alexa LaMalfa FOLLOW SABAI: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube FOLLOW LINNEY: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Give Myself A Break" - Forever On High x Kellin Quinn

    Teaming up with Sleeping With Sirens ' powerhouse vocalist Kellin Quinn, Forever On High have released their latest fiery single, "Give Myself A Break." The track reflects on themes many of us can relate to, narrating what it's like to constantly tear yourself down while the weight of the world sits heavy on your shoulders. An impactful anthem, "Give Myself A Break" by Forever On High x Kellin Quinn encourages listeners to take it easy on themselves, showing us what it's like to be resilient in the face of personal struggles and the inner turmoil we've all felt when getting frustrated with our own habits. An electrifying blend of pop-punk and pop-rock, Forever On High have delivered another face-melting banger with "Give Myself A Break." The track focuses on the band's ability to deliver infectious hooks and unforgettable melodies, featuring an addictive mix of instrumentals and heavy-hitting lines. A truly iconic collaboration, Kellin Quinn's signature vocals soar over blazing guitar riffs and energetic percussion, blending beautifully with Forever On High's lead vocalist, Justin. It's certainly a must-listen for any pop-punk enthusiast, giving the band a tremendous follow-up to their 2024 album, Brand New Low . Hailing from Australia, Forever On High is a rising pop-punk sensation breathing new life into the genre. The group was formed in 2023, consisting of members Justin (vocals), Kevin (guitar), Will (bass), and Josh (drums). Forever On High cites several legendary pop-punk acts as their inspiration, including Green Day , Fall Out Boy , blink-182 , and All Time Low . Giving a modern flair to the nostalgic genre, Forever On High packs their songs with anthemic choruses, thrilling guitar riffs, and invigorating rhythms. Though they are still new to the scene, Forever On High is certainly a group to watch and is poised to become a mainstay in the pop-punk landscape. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW FOREVER ON HIGH: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "rethink us" - Kaelynn Hayes

    Love has never been an easy thing to navigate for anyone. Even for the most experienced, confident people, love, romance, and dating all can be very taxing emotionally and mentally. In "rethink us", Kaelynn Hayes shines a very bright light on such topics, creating a listening experience that is relatable, reassuring, and undeniably beautiful. One of the most notable lyrics in "rethink us" are the lines "I'm scared to be too much, scared that one day you'll wake up and see everything I see. See all the worst in me and it makes you rethink us." Everyone naturally has things that they are insecure about, and those insecurities can easily carry over into a relationship. Insecurities like that can also cause a lot of self doubts which can convince you that your partner will see "all the worst in you" and rethink the relationship. With the lyrics, "Pull me close, say don't say sorry. Talk me down with your arms on me. I wanna see me through your eyes.", Hayes also conveys something everyone needs from time to time, but may be too scared to say it directly: reassurance. In moments when your insecurities and self doubts are too loud, just one moment of reassurance from your partner would be enough to silence those thoughts, and remind you they are not accurate reflections of what your loved ones truly think about you. Hayes' song "rethink us" has a very distinct pop sound. The piano in the background and echoes of her backing vocals adds an extra layer of emotion to the song. This paired with her vulnerable lyrics creates a very moving listening experience. Lyrically, "rethink us" reminds me of "needy" by Ariana Grande, as they both speak of similar themes and internal struggles with relationships. The background music of the track allows Hayes' voice to shine through, as well as the lyrics and each emotion behind them. The tone of her voice can best be described as smooth and deep. Her voice is one that you want to hear more and more of because of its incredible ability to soothe. Hayes' voice is the last thing you hear as the song draws to a close, leaving listeners with a lasting impression of her vocals and the emotional depth of the lyrics in "rethink us". Kaelynn Hayes is a 19 year old upcoming singer-songwriter from the suburbs of Chicago. Hayes discovered her love for singing through karaoke, and she has been singing since she was just 7 years old. In 2020, she began to post covers to social media, garnering a lot of attention and praise for her unique vocals and lower range. During that same year, Hayes also learned how to play the guitar and piano. In 2022, Hayes began to focus on writing original music, and was inspired by other singers like Adele and early Tate McRae . She has also starred in the Nike Jordan "Beyond" campaign alongside Teyana Taylor , who musically directed the project, in 2023. Additionally, in 2024, Hayes joined Daniel Seavey on stage for a duet when he opened for Benson Boone during his tour at his Indianapolis stop. Her latest single "rethink us" was released in 2025, and follows her debut single "kind regards" which was released on October 23rd, 2024. Stay on the lookout for future projects she has to release! Written By Kyler Griggs FOLLOW KAELYNN HAYES: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Reunion" - Cassidy Waring

    Family reunions are a mixed bag. Joyful yet melancholy; painful yet bittersweet; but I think most come with a sense of catharsis after the dust has settled, and the fights have been fought. Once the door closes behind you and you can take a deep breath outside. Cassidy Waring’s “Reunion” is a meditation on family reunions and the complexities that come with it. Soft and upbeat, this track is the perfect representation of letting go of that which has worried you or pulled you down. It’s about all the intersecting feelings that eventually culminate in our healing, in our moving past those emotions that have weighed us down for far too long. And even if those moments of clarity are ephemeral, all that matters is that we don’t feel it at that moment. Perhaps we won’t feel it for longer next time. I absolutely cannot exaggerate how much I love this song. Sometimes, you hear something that just speaks directly to you in both sound and message, and that’s a beautiful thing. “Reunion” is going to be for anybody who likes that folksy, indie, cathartic sound, and tracks that center around freeing oneself from grief and pain. Everything about this track is a treat, a complete sonic delight. You’ve got layers of gentle percussion and a deep, underlying bassline; a delicate guitar and those amazing vocals of Cassidy’s. But my favourite part of the soundscape is this small moment right before the chorus begins for the last time. At 2:05, there is a piano– just for a moment, a handful of seconds– and I think those twinkling keys really heighten the emotion that comes from the final chorus. I like to imagine it symbolizes that rare, liberating moment the song is talking about– that moment when all the pain has left your body and you know you’re going to be okay. The piano is that moment, that short, brief time that everything in the world is right. The message of “Reunion” is that freedom from grief and pain is possible. In momentary glimpses, we don’t have to be captured in its grasp. The track’s refrain “I don’t feel it” is the perfect way to close out the song, repeating and repeating until it fades into nothing. I just adore how “Reunion” frames joy and catharsis. Our pain might be a journey we walk for our entire lives, but there will always be pockets of safety on the road. We won’t be in danger forever, and we won’t be in pain constantly. Cassidy Waring is a queer singer-songwriter based in Vancouver, British Columbia. With poignant lyricism, she weaves songs that speak with an uncompromising honesty, raw and vivid in their storytelling. She is a survivor of Complex PTSD, and the vulnerability of her performances are a cornerstone of hers; there, she shares her reflections on things like grief, relationships, and trauma. She debuted in 2019 with her single “Nostalgia”. Her debut album Lonesome Reunion dropped two years later in 2021, produced by Jonathan Anderson, and is an intimate telling of her experience with complex trauma. Her latest album If I Had Only Been Better released in April 2025, with “Reunion” being its eighth track. For fans of Lucy Dacus and Julia Jacklin, Cassidy Waring is going to be a fantastic addition to any and all of your playlists. Give the rest of Cassidy’s discography a listen, and don’t forget to drop her a follow, too! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW CASSIDY WARING: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | SoundCloud

  • Review: "SIGNAL FADES" - Rob Eberle

    There is this old saying that distance makes the heart grow fonder. In many cases this is true you can be on the other side of the world and years later get married and still be in love. But being away from the person you love every day for months or even years at a time can take a toll on your relationship. Schedules can be made to talk when there is time but eventually that time is replaced by new friends or new hobbies that the other person can’t be there to experience with you. It becomes this tricky game you play with one another to be able to find time to talk and catch up and when you do there’s nothing to really be said. “SIGNAL FADES” by Rob Eberle shows us these same messages through a beautiful soundtrack.   “SIGNAL FADES” has the most excellent musical elements to it. There is just so much in this song from the synths that give off that intense dreamy mood. Right down to the drums and guitar that give this song the most flawless vibe ever. While it’s a song about something so relatable and honest it does so in a way that makes you want to get up and scream with joy. Especially with lyrics like “Does love remain? / I needed you & and / that’s the truth.” The entire song is just spectacular, his warm and passionate vocals really made you feel every emotion. I seriously could not get enough of this entire track.   The young and talented Rob Eberle is from Long Island, New York where he has created quite the name for himself. The singer/songwriter started creating music back in 2021 and has since then gained over thousands of listeners. His music is so pure and full of raw and relatable lyrics that make any listener relate to him as an artist. “SIGNAL FADES” is just one of many songs he has to offer, and I highly recommend you give him a listen. Since March he has been performing live and will be continuing to perform for the next two months in Los Angeles and New York. Be sure to follow his social medias below where you can find his show dates and see if he will be performing near you! Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW Rob Eberle: Instagram   | Spotify  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "Burning Down The House" - Boy In Space

    Boy In Space is back and better than ever with "Burning Down The House." This blend of pop and country tells the story of trying to navigate personal relationships and disagreements. We see the process the artist goes through in trying to convince the person he loves to work through the problem at hand. This is communicated clearly in the chorus when it says, "Baby, there's a fire and it's burning down the house / Would you let me in so we can try to put it out? / And if I end up losing then I'm sleeping on the couch / Baby, there's a fire and it's burning down the house." As the listener we can see the effort being put into the relationship and the effort being put in to work things out. The last verse also communicates the longing the two people have for each other. There's a desire to be a part of each others life. The last verse says, "Parties with monsters, I can't wait to leave / To crash into something that'll break me free / Squeeze into the backseat, your hand on my thigh / This is the highlight of my life." Boy In Space never ceases to amaze me when it comes to new realeases. His voice being similar to that of Alec Benjamin, makes him the perfect unique candidate for pop-country music. When you take his voice, the lyrics, and blend it with acoustic guitar it creates a beautiful song. The tone of the song seems to be a form of positive melancholy, while the couple seems to be working through a disagreement the artist holds a positive attitude that they'll be able to work it out. This also ties in the mood which is upbeat yet slightly sad because of the situation at hand. Like a well oiled machine, when all the parts work together they create a cohesive beautiful song. Boy In Space also known as Robin Lundbäck achieved international success at a young age. After touring with his brothers he then decided to launch a solo career which has been very successful since. After the release of his 2024 EP "Copium" and his upcoming EP "The Butterfly Affect" he keeps shining. Some of his past collaborations include Alan Walker, The Struts, 1Mind, Toby Gadd, Pink Sweat$, Phoebe Ryan, Jordan Shaw, NOTD, Shy Martin, John Newman, Red Triangle, Nick Furlong, Rod Wave, Freddy Alexander and many others. His upcoming EP was recorded in both Tennessee and Sweden which brings a fresh twist to music. The EP will be an exploration of internal, personal growth. Make sure you give "Burning Down The House" a listen today! Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Boy In Space: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Album Review: "Sable, Fable" - Bon Iver

    Bon Iver has done it yet again with his new album "Sable, Fable." We've been given the opportunity to understand him better in this season of life, while also navigating our own lives. Bon Iver never fails to connect with his listeners and "Sable, Fable" provides even more proof of that. The album is broken up into two separate parts, the first three songs are part of "Sable" which is a reflection and unpacking of the artists time as a musician. We gain insight into the reality he had to face when the pandemic hit. We understand his process of processing, healing, and taking action for the next chapter of life. The second half of the album "Fable" is the aftermath of the processing. We get a glimpse into the excitement of pursuing a new chapter as a happy and healed individual with clarity about their future. TRACKLIST ... THINGS BEHIND THINGS BEHIND THINGS S P E Y S I D E AWARDS SEASON Short Story Everything Is Peaceful Love Walk Home Day One (feat. Dijon & Flock of Dimes) From I'll Be There If Only I Could Wait (feat. Danielle Haim) There's A Rhythmn Au Revoir Bon Iver is an indie-folk band founded by singer-songwriter Justin Vernon. While it is the name of the band it is also Vernon's alias. Bon Iver became widely known after his debut album "For Emma, Forever Ago" in July of 2007. The album was born from a three month period in which the artist spent isolated in a cabin in Northwestern Wisconsin. One of the most unique aspects of Bon Iver aside from their music is the meaning behind the name. Bon Iver derives from the French phrase 'Bon hiver' which means good winter. Some of the awards he has won include Best New Artist and Favorite Indie Pop and Indie Rock Albums. When asked about "Sable, Fable" and the meaning behind it he elaborated saying that his body had been "Buzzing with anxiety for a dozen years." He continued on, "It was so funny to me that we had blown up so hard. It was almost like I couldn't lose, so I had all that courage. I'm gonna do a record where it starts out like metal and ends as 80's sex rock." When the pandemic hit it prompted him to ask himself hard questions, which led him to come face to face with the struggles that he had been facing, in doing so "Sable, Fable" was sparked. ... This first piece is a short twelve second introduction to the album. When it begins it pulls the listeners attention to the forefront with it's siren like sound. We know that something is about to begin and we're focused on what is going to come next. There's a small but good build up before the next song begins. THINGS BEHIND THINGS BEHIND THINGS Right away we're introduced to the first song which happens to be the first part of "Sable." The song "THINGS BEHIND THINGS BEHIND THINGS" gives us insight on feeling like change is necessary, but also being scared of change. We feel the uncertainty and the nervousness behind progressing in life. The chorus gives us a glimpse into this when it says, "There are things behind things behind things / And there are rings within rings within rings." This showcases to us as the listener, how complex different situations can be. Sometimes change is hard because there's so many moving parts. The music itself stays on the somber, slower side which also helps set the tone for the song, giving us more detail and a better understanding of the lyrics. S P E Y S I D E The second song serves as a mixture of reflection and present day feelings and emotions. We come to understand that Bon Iver can't go back and change the things of the past, but we also come to understand that he's still struggling with where he's at in the present. There's a depth to recognizing that mistakes in the past are unchangeable, and at the same time recognizing that there's still work to be done in order to be at peace where you're at. There's a line halfway through the song that says, "It serves to suffer make a hole in my foot / And hope you look / As I fill my book / What a waste of wood / Nothing's really happened like I thought it would." This can speak volumes to many listeners because it brings a sense of relief knowing that not everyone has it figured out. This song holds somewhat of an upbeat manner, while at the same time having those melancholic undertones that bring us back to the seriousness of the situation. AWARDS SEASON By the time the third song in "Sable" comes around we notice a small shift. There's a small amount of hope that can be seen in the song "AWARDS SEASON." The song remains fairly upbeat which helps set the tone of the song, but it's a slower type of upbeat which allows us to slow down and grasp the change that we see coming. The lyrics provide proof of this shift in attitude as well when it says, "In such a small time frame / You can be remade / You can live again / What was pain now's gain / A new path gets laid / And you know what is great? / Nothing stays the same." These lyrics come as a breath of fresh air, it's like seeing the light at the end of a really dark tunnel. For listeners, this is how we know better things are coming for the artist and for ourselves. Short Story "Short Story" introduces us to the second half of the album "Fable," which brings us the sunnier season of Bon Iver's life. Right away we're met with an enchanting upbeat vibe that allows us to prepare for the lyrics. When the lyrics are introduced to us it further proves that we've turned the corner for better days. Some of my favorite lyrics from this song say, "That January ain't the whole world / And falling's really over shown / And you're never really, really on your own." This line is so beautiful because it encourages us as listeners, January doesn't last forever and the year still goes on. Everything Is Peaceful Love Song two gives off a 70's vibe right away before the lyrics even begin. There's a small moment when all you want to do is bob your head along to the music. This song evaluates the possibility of things going awry, but with a positive outlook. Instead of dwelling only on the negative that could happen the artist takes time to appreciate the peace and the love that is taking place in the current moment. This is vocalized when the song says, "And damn, if I'm not climbing up a tree right now / And every little thing is love / And right with me / And how am I to know that someday you might change the road?" Uncertainty will always arise, there's always a choice to be made on how to handle it when it presents itself. Walk Home Now that we've been eased into the second part of the album, we're diving into deeper feelings and experiences. "Walk Home" gives us a glimpse into what it feels like to love someone deeply. This song talks a lot about freezing time and staying in the moment. There's a different vibe to this song that presents itself like soul music. Compared to the other songs we've been given this far, this one is slower and more sensual, while also still having somewhat of an upbeat tone. At the beginning of the song we're met with the longing to stay present in the moment. The lyrics say, "Can we stay inside this place? / Pull me close up to your face / Honey, I just want the taste / Gimme right away." After fighting through the tunnel and transitioning into the light, we're finding and transitioning into a place of love. Day One (feat. Dijon & Flock of Dimes) When the song beings we're met with a high energy, gospel-like beat that helps bleed into the lyrics, which become a message from the artist to those who may be struggling with similar feelings. It also seems to be a message to his past self. I would label "Day One" as a self-reflection. Recognizing the struggle's of the past and seeing the self-doubt, but encouraging himself and other's that not only does it get better but that this was meant to be from day one. There's encouragement that we are who we're supposed to be, and we've been that person all along. We just had to stay the course in order to get there. Some of the lyrics that reflect this feeling when it says, "But the sun's gonna go ahead and tage right up / And we don't understand what we're standing on / And we sure come in blind / With our timing / So I've culled what I can't tame / I've taken all that I can take." If we endure the hard things, eventually we'll see the good things. From This song provides a unique freshness to the album. If you love rom-com movies you'll love the structure and the sound of "From," The song gives off a rom-com vibe that makes it fun to listen to on repeat and it leaves you hopeful for future love. This song provides the reassurance needed in a relationship, which gives it a wholesome feeling. Bon Iver communicates this well when he says, "From now on / Don't let it trouble your mind, your mind / Just take my love in your time." There's a lovestruck feeling in the air every time the music starts, bringing that fresh feeling. I'll Be There This is the reassurance we need. In "I'll Be There" we find the comfort that every relationship should provide. We feel the love of a partner. What is communicated through this song should be the standard set in every relationship. This time around we get to experience the 70's hippy vibe, the groovy kind of music we all know and love. Some of my favorite lyrics from the song say, "Tell me more, or tell me nothing / Said, 'I'll be there' / I won't move." There's collective support provided to everyone through Bon Iver's lyrics and this line speaks that to us as the listener. If Only I Could Wait (feat. Danielle Haim) While the last song focused on reassurance for our partners or for us, this song focuses on the fear of not being ready when the other person is. By saying "If Only I Could Wait" makes it seem like the timing is off, even though you really don't want it to be. Because it feels this way you'll do whatever you can to be the person you want to be for your partner. While this may seem like a solemn topic, the song conveys it in a rather upbeat manner. There's a playfulness that tones down the serious side of the topic at hand. Toward the middle of the song it says, "I'll take the pain / If only you could wait / I ain't up at your pace yet." These lyrics paint the picture vividly for us as the listener to better understand exactly what the artist is saying. There's A Rhythmn As the album begins to wind down we're faced with the obstacle of trying to find a rhythm for the new season of life we're about to walk through. Which is exactly what "There's A Rhythmn" communicates to us. We come to better understand this concept through the lyrics when they say, "There's a rhythm to reclaim / Get tall and walk away / There's a rhythm / There's a rhythm." Bon Iver reiterates the rhythm that we now have to navigate and figure out as we move forward. This song is the perfect blend of melancholic and upbeat. When they mix together it balances both feelings out which helps even the overall tone of the song. Au Revoir This song closes out the album "Sable, Fable." While it doesn't have lyrics much like the first song that introduced the album, it still packs a powerful punch. It takes all of the tones, moods, emotions, feelings, melodies, etc. from each song and combines it into a beautiful closing piece. We're brought to this place of processing, and breaking down what we've listened to. We grapple with what it looks like to move and turn over a new leaf for ourselves. Overall, I loved this album. Bon Iver brought a whole new level of emotion and depth to his music, which then helped me process things in my own life. By painting such vivid pictures for us as the listener, he set the tone for what grieving, growing, and moving on should look like. This album was encouraging for many different reasons, and I think it'll spark a lot of good change for many of Bon Iver's fans. I personally, want to thank him for being so open and vulnerable for everyone to see. Having an album that can not only spark a love for music, but also spark change and healing is incredible. Give "Sable, Fable" a listen, it's worth it. Written By Destiny Rundquist Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok

  • Review: "Burn the Internet" - Erica Manzoli

    "Burn the Internet," Erica Manzoli's latest release, cries out for a seemingly impossible sense of closure that seems just out of reach because of the internet's relentless accessibility. According to the artis t, this post-break-up hit " ...is me being brutally honest about my own struggles, my sick routines, and the way I get stuck in that spiral. But more than anything, it’s about facing those dark feelings head-on and, perhaps, finding some healing in the process.” In the age of a never-ending, curated feed available 24/7, the singer details what it's like to feel unable to escape from constant comparison, entertainment, and distraction. So, it's no surprise she wants to "Burn the Internet!" "Burn the Internet" is a fresh indie-pop tune: lyrically humorous, lamenting, and relatable. Its instrumental arrangement is built on the collaboration of reverb-laden electric guitars, piano, and Erica’s airy vocals. Beginning softly, Erica's voice stands out against the guitar and piano before building up into the dynamic chorus: "Spending my nights crying into a screen. I'm not alright and maybe I'll never be." Poking fun at the inability to go to sleep while the internet is at her fingertips, Erica simultaneously describes the culture of overconsumption and critiques the constant influx of information that is on the internet. She aligns her musical vibe with the likes of Billie Marten, Lucy Dacus, Alexandra Savior and Mitski. The singer-songwriter, age 22, hails from South East London and later attended the renowned BRIT School from the age of 14 whose notable alumni include music icons such as Adele and Amy Winehouse. After teaching herself piano, Erica moved on to begin writing lyrics, graduated from BRIT, and traveled across Europe collaborating with a number of other songwriters and producers. She started sharing her music to a fast-growing audience, debuting her EP "I’m Okay, I Promise" in 2022. Her musical sound was received with strong support making its way into several Spotify and Apple Music playlists. Also reviewed in The Line of Best Fit, Notion,  and  Wonderland, Erica's music has been compared to the works of leading pop musicians Olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eilish. Erica Manzoli is solidifying room for herself in the pop industry with her latest hit "Burn the Internet." Written By Azalea Withrow FOLLOW Erica Manzoli: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Together Again" - Sophia Gripari

    Breaking up with someone that you don’t want to leave is hard, especially when nothing could fix it. Not even the kings horses or their men. “Together Again” on Sophia Gripari’s debut EP Inevitable, Obviously is a perfect song for this scenario. Not only does it homage to the famous nursery rhyme, Humpty Dumpty , but this hit takes a fun spin on the last few words in the rhyme within. No matter how much you love that someone, sometimes it’s not meant to work out. Sophia spills this in her chorus: “I talked to my family, I spoke to my friends/They knew before me how this shit was gonna end/And all the kings horses and all the kings men/Couldn’t ever put us back together, together again.” This heartfelt song will be by your side through it all, and uplift your sorrows! Starting off with synth bells and a watery guitar loop, Sophia introduces her dreamy vocals. Along with these vocals, the instrumental is satisfyingly crunchy. This could have easily came out of a cassette player. The drums throughout the song also aid in this crunchy aesthetic, giving a nostalgic lo-fi feel. The spacey bells that float overhead in the verses and bridge give it an airy-feel as well. Now, the best part in my opinion: the chorus. It can easily get stuck in your head with the many unique elements involved. The sped-up guitar, the bumping drums, and the pulsing vocals make it a tune that happily floats around in my mind. With the many parts of this song, it comes together to make a beautiful, harmonious bop. Sophia Gripari is an independent artist and songwriter based in Los Angeles. Moving from London to the West Coast, Sophia threw herself into the pop music industry and released some of her most successful music like “Hate You but I Don’t” and “Sad AF”. Her music has earned over 1.5 million streams on Spotify in 2020 along with 2 million views via YouTube, with support from channels like La Belle Musique and Popular Music . She is also featured in Epic Game’s Fortnite and MTV . In 2021, she re-released “Hate You but I Don’t” underneath Sam Feldt’s record label. Not only that, but she showcased this at Tomorrowland, the biggest dance music festival. Sophia released her first single in 2022 named “Brunette With Baggage” after her ex told her that she was “just his type, an emotionally unavailable brunette with baggage”. In recent times, she released her debut EP Inevitable, Obviously on April 11th. If you liked “Together Again” and wish to hear more, check out Sophia Gripari through the links below! Written By Nevaeh Scott FOLLOW SOPHIA GRIPARI: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

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