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Margot & the Midnight Tenants are bringing potent alt-pop straight to your playlists. “Golden Key” is one of the singles off the band’s upcoming debut album, and this track is absolutely an amazing way to start it off. If you’ve ever known someone who keeps their secrets under the tightest of locks– especially when you should be aware of them– then you’ll definitely relate to “Golden Key”. This playful song commands every bit of its soundscape through a realized style and groovy beats. For those who love some alt-pop with a jazzy twist, “Golden Key” is going to click right with you. Margot & the Midnight Tenants have absolutely outdone themselves with “Golden Key”. It’s easy to see why it’s the lead’s (Margot Bennett) favourite track off the band’s soon-to-come album– with such a precise soundscape, you can’t deny that this song has some major style. I especially love the use of layered vocals and undeniably groovy percussion. Every single bit of it screams alt-pop, that amazing blend of innovation with a splash of that pop personality that we all know and love. The writing in “Golden Key” is similarly smooth, silky and slinky; every line seems to flow into the next, making singing along a completely effortless experience. The track is all about locks and keys and secrets, and holding onto that titular key for, perhaps, far too long. Whether you relate to the track or simply love it for the soundscape, “Golden Key” is one sonic experience that will have you humming it for a long while. Based in Brooklyn, NY, Margot & the Midnight Tenants is an alternative pop-rock band that is characterized by their blended singer-songwriter storytelling and hard-hitting energy. The band consists of Daniel Bloch (drums), Omer Berger (rhythm guitar), Noga Davidson (bass), Micha Gilad (keys), Idan Morim (lead guitar), and Margot Bennett (lead). They may be formally-trained musicians, but they throw out all the rules to make art that focuses on fun and their love of music. They debuted all the way back in 2017 with “Elmwood Street” and have since released an amazing array of songs that all tell a story. “Golden Key” is part of the band’s upcoming debut album. To keep track of their projects, drop Margot & the Midnight Tenants a follow on any of their socials! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW MARGOT & THE MIDNIGHT TENANTS: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube | Website

Step into a multilayered, imaginative world within “EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE” from artist JXCKY. An electronic soundscape accompanied by smooth, emotion-laced vocals, JXCKY has given listeners a song that is both deeply personal and easily relatable to audiences. “EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE” delves into the topic of finding oneself and experiencing the struggle of your loved ones not understanding this change. JXCKY leaves it all out on the table, diving deep into details of how he’s gone about this change and the ways this impacts specific relationships within his life. The title itself, “EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE,” is a nod to the emotions often overwhelmingly felt by people in general, nonetheless, someone feeling singled out amongst their loved ones, as JXCKY is in this track. JXCKY does not skimp on intricately detailed songwriting, a fully fleshed-out story, and beautiful vocals intermixed with personal experiences. The kind of freeing experience felt while listening to this track is one that you won't want to miss, especially if you’re looking for something fresh and heartfelt.    “EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE” is a complex, gorgeously stacked collection of experiences & nuances put into one striking track. Upon solely listening to it, without examining the lyrics, it’s clear from the emotion put into JXCKY’s vocals that this song comes from both a creative & personal place, which is shown with care and respect. JXCKY tells his story with his head held high, while simultaneously showing listeners that it’s okay to feel hurt when not accepted/understood by loved ones. Lyrics such as, “No I wouldn’t be surprised they think I’m faking this,” and, “No I’ve never heard a silence quite this loud,” are stunningly written examples of how isolation while struggling, especially without having the support of loved ones, will lead you to not only have to break away from unhealthy dynamics but also to trust oneself completely. JXCKY brilliantly balances electronic playfulness with emotion, allowing the instrumental pieces behind “EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE” to speak for themselves as he unravels this story. The pop qualities of this song are bold, yet do not jump out at you immediately. JXCKY clearly has an understanding of the pop genre but additionally allows for the nature of these experiences to speak for themselves, therefore blending with elements of varying genres such as electronic, indie, and alternative.  JXCKY is a queer Chinese-Cambodian artist currently based in Melbourne, Australia. JXCKY’s music mixes the grittiness of the rock genre with the flair of trap, creating a modern identity that transforms chaos into craft. Aiming to cut through the noise in the music world, JXCKY delivers his music with honesty and embeds his truth with razor-sharp hooks and crazy falsetto-laced vocals. Every piece of JXCKY’s music is a production of its own, blending the spectacle of pop with elements that bring emotional release. Upon releasing his debut EP, Thriving in Perpetual Darkness , JXCKY had to decide to step away from music to handle a personal issue. Now, as an independent artist, formally with TEAMWRK Records, he has poured his transformation and personal discoveries into his sophomore EP. JXCKY’s recently released sophomore EP, A BODY FOR AN EYE, serves as an offering for the queer, POC, and creative communities he stands with.  Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW JXCKY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

"Different People" allows us to visualize what it's like to love someone and reflect on your time together. Ryan Nealon takes us down memory lane, reflecting on all the memories he's had with his past love interest. One of my favorite lines says, "Holiday's, you're still hostin' at your house / Do you realize that there's someone / Who doesn't come around anymore?" This line warms my heart with the talk of the holiday's while also giving me the pang of sadness that comes with heartbreak. The chorus gives the song even more power and meaning when it says, "Do you wish we could start over? / 'Cause it kind of stings / You're doing our favorite things / We're different people." This gives the song a full circle moment, we know exactly how the artist feels when they reflect and question a past relationship. Ryan Nealon gives us the perfect blend of tone and mood with the song "Different People." The tone is very reflective on past events and feelings. We also get little snippets of wistfulness. This helps tie in the mood of the song which is bittersweet nostalgia. In the midst of the nostalgia we also get a sense of loss. This doesn't imply a hard and awful breakup, it just implies a heartfelt separation that was in the best interest of both. The backbone of the song is the acoustic guitar which helps build the vocals. With the mellow consistency of the acoustic guitar, it builds the lyrics in a deep and heartfelt way. This makes it feel like the song is tugging at our heartstrings. All together this song could have what it takes to melt butter because of how smooth and heartfelt it is. Ryan Nealon is an up and coming singer/songwriter from San Diego, California. His music has been cited as fragile, emotional, and beautiful. After relocating to Los Angeles in 2013, Nealon has performed across the United States. He's also been included in over 100 publications including Earmilk, the San Diego Union Tribune, Instinct Magazine, and American Songwriter. Ryan Nealon is also an ambassador for non-profit organizations like AFSP, MADD, Boo2Bullying, and NoStigmas. If you're looking for a heartfelt ballad for the fall season, make sure to check out "Different People." Support Ryan Nealon and keep your eyes peeled for his next hit! Written By Destiny Vahrenkamp FOLLOW Ryan Nealon: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

*Mothica Concert Poster via Mothica Mothica celebrated my favorite holiday in style with a special one-night Halloween Extravaganza in Los Angeles. The night was filled with spooky fun, including tarot readings, a costume contest, and two mystifying supporting acts. Dark-pop princess, margø , kicked off the night with her mesmerizing performance dressed as HIM from The Powerpuff Girls. Then, The Whorror Show , a spooky-themed drag group, led the crowd in an awe-inspiring production. Mothica’s picks to open her show were ingenious, flawlessly encapsulating the horror and thrill of the holiday. Once Mothica hit the stage, everyone was shaking in anticipation for her powerful performance – and she did not disappoint.  Mothica kicked off the show with an ominous intro. While her band played subtle instrumentals, a black 7-foot coffin stood in the middle of the stage, covered by a black sheet. The audience erupted in excitement as we knew what, or rather who, was in that casket. Suddenly, the sheet was ripped from the coffin, revealing Mothica in one of the most stunning outfits I have ever seen. She performed “The Void,” the first track from her latest album, Kissing Death . This song was more of an interlude to the project, slowly introducing the listener to the dark themes of depression, anxiety, and mental health. Mothica beginning the concert with this track subtly lured the audience into the eerie theme of the night.  Mothica Coffin Intro Throughout the show, Mothica kept the audience engaged through her witty remarks, deep vulnerability, and intimate stage presence. Her voice was stunning, hitting every note flawlessly and bringing the recordings to life. She commanded the stage and brought light to the darkness. I had lost count of the number of times Mothica held my hand and sang directly to me (shoutout to my husband, who magically found us a spot front row while I was at the merch table meeting margø ). Mothica made every single person in the crowd feel special and cared for, because at a Mothica show, it is a safe space for everyone. This is a setting we desperately need in these uncertain times.  Mothica also made everyone know they are loved and they matter. After relapsing and attending rehab last year, Mothica released a new version of her hit song, “Vices.” In the new version, she changes the bridge to be about her fans, telling them: “If you see me on the stage // I'll wipe the tears right off your face // You're the reason I'm okay.” This part of the song always gives me chills, so I knew I would cry – and I did. Then, she immediately followed the song with a speech about her attempted suicide at the age of 15, which led to her writing the song, “Forever Fifteen.” Her speech detailed how things would get better - that her life got better. She never imagined she would still be alive at her age, but she is, and she has a support system bigger than she could even dream of. She wanted everyone in the crowd who has ever had thoughts of self-harm and suicidal ideation to know that she sees them and she loves them. There was not one dry eye in the room after that moment. Everyone in the crowd had tears streaming down their face, or at the very least welling up in their eyes. Mothica moved the crowd in that moment and brought much-needed compassion and empathy to their lives.  Mothica with Karlee Skipper It is always a special moment when I get to meet the artists I have worked with on Pop Passion Blog and see them perform live. While I have been an avid Mothica listener for several years now – the artist has always been at my top 3 on Apple Replay – I did have the honor to write a review for her song “Another High” last year. Similarly, margø is another artist we have worked with a handful of times. I had only listened to her more casually before working with her and her team. But being able to review her music and be more active on her social media has made me adore the artist and anticipate every new release. Being able to see these two dark-pop phenomena perform their songs that explore themes of murder and mayhem was an absolute treat – especially the day before Halloween.  margø with Karlee Skipper During the show, Mothica officially launched her new era of music. She has been teasing her new album and its intriguing imagery – Mothicorp. This new image brings the aesthetic of Mothica to the corporate world, symbolizing her depression and anxiety. At the concert, she told the crowd that she has been “applying for real jobs” to fund her new album. Suddenly, someone in a suit came onto stage and handed her a business card. Mothica read it aloud, stating that she was accepted into Mothicorp and her first day will be November 11th, implying new music will be released that day. On Monday, November 3rd, Mothica announced her brand new single, “Evergreen Misery.” She also told the audience this would be her “Rockica” era, indicating her new music will have an edgier sound.  Mothica is one of the best modern artists; from her authentic lyrics to her powerful vocals, she is a rockstar in the making. Seeing her live is an otherworldly experience that you do not want to miss out on. Mothica performs at several rock, pop-punk, and metal festivals year-round. If she doesn’t have anything near you soon, make sure to follow her on social media to keep up to date. You never know when she may be added to a new line-up or announce a headlining tour. Apply for Mothicorp today! Mothica announcing new music release date and performing unreleased track Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

After EP 2 is the second electronic/alternative pop EP from the band After, consisting of Justine Dorsey and Graham Epstein and is known for their encapsulating Y2K aesthetic. Deep Diving The Field Where we are now Baroque Outbound Close your eyes As the iconic late 90's/early 2000's aesthetic has made waves into recent media again, only a handful of people have managed to accurately replicate it and its nostalgia. If you want that in the form of music, look no further than for the band After. Formed in 2023 with the release of their debut single "Something Special", Dorsey and Epstein come together to create magnificent music that makes you feel like you're flying and dreaming at the same time. They have released several singles over the past two years before releasing their debut EP After EP in April 2025. A few months later, they released their second EP After EP 2 in October. Deep Diving The popular leading single of the EP, “Deep Diving” explores the many different aspects of nature. As you listen to the song, you travel from the beach, to the sky, to the mountains, and everything in between. You’re made to feel like you’re traveling through thin air and witnessing all the spectacles of life. You can see every landscape and the curvature of the planet. You transport through the clouds like you’re a plane, and swim through the sea like you’re a fish. The production supplements this, with its sci-fi-esque synths and sound effects and reverberated guitar chords, as well as the drums fills that bring you back down to Earth. The Field The second track is about trying to forget a former partner, but everything reminds you of them. As much as you try to move on, your brain always goes back to the times you spent together. The line “You’re every face and you’re every sound” perfectly defines this feeling, as its inescapable. “The Field” is a combination of futuristic synths, distinct sound and vocal effects, and 2000's indie-rock instrumentation - After’s signature sound - and this song is a great example of it. The lyrics also use more personification of nature to describe feelings and emotions surrounding love and loss brought upon by past or current relationships. Where we are now The production for “Where we are now” takes a more acoustic approach compared to the two previous tracks, although it still features pop elements. Dorsey sings about how she feels about the relationship she is in. She loves her significant other and wants to spend more time with them. She deeply appreciates the moments they have together and never wants them to end, as she enjoys their company. Some lines may imply there might be some difficulties in the relationship due to the distance between them, but there’s not enough to take away the love Dorsey and her partner have for each other. Baroque After EP 2  does a complete 180 with its fourth track containing hard rock elements with metal-esque singing. The song starts out as dark pop and the relationship presented in the previous track appears to take a turn for the worst as Dorsey and her significant other break up. Her ex has problems regarding the kind of the person they are, as she sings “When you realize you’re selfish? / I know you can’t help this”. She realizes the person she was with isn't what she made them out to be. The breakup was caused by this and the rockiness of the relationship. The emotional aspects of the lyrics are a great pair with the powerful and showstopping production of “Baroque”. Outbound “Outbound” seems to be Dorsey trying to just to be friends with ex, but they also could be trying to see if they could get back together again, depending on if there are still romantic feelings present. While there’s still tension, the love they had for each when they were together is still there - they are just trying to convert it into platonic love for now. The production sounds like a combination of the first three tracks, showing how talented Epstein is with his production skills and overall musicianship. Dorsey sings in a cadence that is new to the EP, which shows how talented she is with her singing abilities. Close your eyes More references to sleeping and dreaming can be found in the final track of this EP, “Close your eyes”. This song also is about the complications that can come with a rocky relationship, with the lyrics specifying in longing and jealousy. Dorsey believes her partner thinks about someone else while they are together, and she wishes this wasn’t the case and wonders why this is happening. She tries to confront her partner about this, but then changes her mind right before she’s about to, because she doesn’t want her suspicions to be confirmed. In the background of “Close your eyes”, there are piano notes that create a unique atmosphere for the production. From the first to last track, After EP 2 is nothing other than a beautiful work of art. Everything about it is flawless, from the production, to the vocals, to the visuals - it is pure perfection. Justine Dorsey and Graham Epstein are both incredibly talented and its always amazing when two people who have outstanding musical chemistry come together to create together. Its obvious they both had intricate visions for their music and they always execute them fantastically, including with their newest EP. I can't wait to keep listening to their music and see what's in the store for them. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW AFTER: Instagram | Bandcamp | Apple Music | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Some exes keep you on a wringer just to mess with your head and keep themselves satisfied. It can be incredibly annoying when you’re trying to move on because you know they don’t serve you, yet the calls keep piling up. It’s a mind game that no one has time for. Emma Teuful just released her new single “Heartbreak Season,” all about an ex that won’t let her be. It’s a dance pop anthem that will have you bopping your head so hard you’ll forget all about them. This track has fun vibes with a catchy chorus I keep screaming at the top of my lungs. If you’re a fan of artists such as Carly Rae Jepsen and Sabrina Carpenter, "Heartbreak Season" is a must listen. “Heartbreak Season” is feels like a celebration of letting go and finding strength in relying on no one but yourself. Emma wanted to create this song with a nostalgic vibe from early 2000’s pop and she absolutely nailed it. Breakup songs don’t always have to reopen the wounds, and Emma showcases that in “Heartbreak Season.” The energy is electric and you can’t help but put it on repeat to celebrate the losses. “Don’t call me begging like I need new reasons, it’s heartbreak season.” All the internal rhymes and lyrical exclamations leave you dancing out the pain. Next time an ex reaches out, you know what song to put on blast. Emma Teuful is a singer-songwriter that takes the dreariness of life and spins it into positives. She recently started releasing her art under her personal name which has been a huge mark in her life. She shares personal stories and feelings through her lyricism and absolutely owning it. Her debut single “Parking Lot” was released in 2024 and created a lot of buzz on social media. Since then she has released five other singles, growing her discography. Emma has so much talent and I can’t wait to see what projects she has in store for the future. Follow the links down below to stay up to date on her journey. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW EMMA TEUFUL: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Elaskia's latest single, "Either Way I Lose," details an all too familiar experience. Love and heartbreak are both intense feelings. As much as we may try, they aren't always avoidable. But despite that, many experiences and emotion can arise, whether negative or positive. Elaskia weighs her options in "Either Way I Lose," stuck between choosing herself or her partner. If she chooses herself, she is at risk of losing her partner and the relationship. On the other hand, she is at risk of losing herself. Both options come with losses of the heart, which is shown with this lyric: "Trying to find a reason ... so I don't have to choose myself or you cause either way Iose." Elaskia immediately invites you into a beautiful safe space from the moment "Either Way I Lose" starts. The song is both vulnerable and comforting. Listeners can get a sense of understanding throughout the song as Elaskia's delicate, honeyed vocals connect with them. "Either Way I Lose" starts off slow and feels like intimate whispers. There is a moment where the sound takes a small turn and briefly picks up in pace. It feels cathartic, especially with the vulnerable lyrics paired with the soft sound. From start to finish, the song simultaneously comforts listeners with its relatability and takes them on an emotional journey. With great success in her song writing, Elaskia's debut single 'Calling Out My Name' was featured in the hit American TV broadcast and worldwide Netflix series 'Dynasty.' Additionally, it was also shown on 'Marvel's Runaways'. Her follow up single 'I Will Do Anything' also landed on an episode of one of Australia's most successful media exports 'Home and Away.' It was also a featured article in the popular teenage magazine 'Total Girl.' Elaskia has a sound that can best be compared to the artists she's opened for. Vera Blue, Alpine, and Montaigne are just a few. She has also shared the lineup with acts RUFUS, Peking Duk, Gang of Youths, The Preatures, The Jungle Giants, Ocean Alley, Skeggs and Amy Shark.  Written By Kyler Griggs FOLLOW ELASKIA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Marilyn Hucek returns with her new single, “Rebound.” Following Hucek after a breakup, rebound goes lengths into the denial and regret that come after such a tumultuous time in our lives. With the start of the song going into the idea of not wanting her ex-partner back, listeners expect Hucek to rebound with someone else–only to have Hucek subvert expectations and rebound with her ex-partner. Finding little excuses to find contact with her ex and have them come back together, Hucek denies that she made a mistake “asking for space,” leading to Hucek making excuses on behalf of her behavior, leading to prolonged feelings and messy drunk calls in the middle of the night to be able to keep her ex-partner in her life. “Rebound” has that nostalgic, 2000’s production behind Hucek’s lyrics and vocals. With all the best parts of “Kiss Me” by Sixpence None The Richer, including a guitar-heavy instrumentation and simplistic lyrics that capture the feeling Hucek is feeling, “Rebound” belongs in a romantic comedy like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days  or He’s Just Not That Into You . Hucek’s lyrics in “Rebound,” while straight to the point, get the point across in fun, tongue-in-cheek references to breaking no contact and drunk calls at the bar to an ex. With “Rebound” coming out, listeners can’t help hearing it and imagining a night out with friends with a messy ending that involves their ex-partner. Marilyn Hucek is an American-Chilean singer-songwriter based out of the United States. Born in Washington D.C., Hucek’s family life deeply impacted her life, leading to her career in music taking shape. A proud advocate of Alzheimer’s awareness, there’s a sense of education and inspiration that listeners can take from Hucek’s extensive and impressive discography. With her recent graduation from the Los Angeles Academy for Artists and Music Production (LAAMP), Hucek’s education shines through her catalog, leading listeners to wanting more from the rising indie-pop star. If listeners want to keep up with Marilyn Hucek’s new releases and show dates, they can follow her on social media, linked below.  Written By Abby Mornhinweg FOLLOW MARILYN HUCEK: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

"mdma (my devil my angel)" is the newest single from Mo Bentley , a song about a toxic and dangerous person that comes into your life that you have feelings for but you know isn't good for you. Mo Bentley describes this person as the drug "MDMA", and compares their relationship to it by describing it as addicting but ultimately harmful. The individual she writes about is a bad person and has hurt her, and she paints this picture in the lyrics with the terrifying situation of being unknowingly drugged. This represents fear that is circulated throughout the relationship, which is due to the actions by the person Mo Bentley is with. The primary synth of "mdma (my devil my angel)" is electrifying and can be heard in just the first few seconds of the song, along with powerful 808s and Mo Bentley's amazing vocals. In the chorus, bass guitar chords are introduced and the drum line changes, giving this pop single an alternative vibe, making it musically diverse, and adding even more character and originality to it than it already had. As "mdma (my devil my angel)" reaches its conclusion, it becomes acoustic, with the strums of that kind of guitar leading it out, making every section of the song unique and impactful. Mo Bentley is a singer-songwriter and actress based in Los Angeles, California. She perfected her musical craft before releasing her debut single "Lights On" featuring Abbi Nelson in December 2019. She released her debut EP Pretty Girls Get Lonely in May 2025. She has posted videos on her YouTube channel covering songs by various artists, such as "Imperfect For You" and "Twilight Zone" by Ariana Grande , "My Future" by Billie Eilish , and "L$D" by A$AP Rocky . Based on her discography and incredible live performances, Mo Bentley is a very hardworking and talented artist who is going to make big waves in not just pop, but the entire music industry overall. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW MO BENTLY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

An anthem as much for herself as for an audience who can relate, Carol Ades' single "Worst Person in the World" delivers a playful, tongue-in-cheek performance that captures a celebration of humanity. Ades' cathartic lyrics transform a reprimand of human fickleness, trials of womanhood, and emotional chaos into an embrace of them. The music video, which debuted with the drop of the single, is not to be missed, adding to the theatrical intensity the song already capitalizes on. Denoting, through disarming honesty and personal narrative, how realizations such as "I'm the worst person in the world or, I'm just a girl" are universal, even if they feel isolatingly individual. The introduction to "Worst Person in the World" is heavily piano-based, made up of staccato chords that build up to Carol's beginning vocals. Slowly adding other chords and eventually percussion to the instrumentals, the sound mirrors the performance aspect of the music video, which follows Ades performing a play. Sonically building up to a climax aided by quickening percussion, the song drops back to emphasizing Carol's honest lyrics and smooth vocal stacks . Immediately catchy, Ades's charismatic personality shines through in her vocal inflection and cadence. Fusing elements of alternative, indie, and pop sounds with Carol's stylistic singer-songwriter storytelling, the song is fun, vulnerable, and direct. Singer-songwriter Carol Ades, originally from New Jersey, calls Los Angeles home. Her early success as a songwriter included writing for major pop acts like Selena Gomez, Ava Max, Demi Lovato, and KATSEYE. While crafting viable popular songs helped shape her perspective and knowledge of writing music, it’s Carol's own voice and vision that have defined her as one of today’s most compelling emerging artists. Touring as a solo artist alongside some of the indie and alt-pop space's newest music stars, including Lizzy McAlpine, Holly Humberstone, Suki Waterhouse, and The Aces, Carol Ades continues to impress. Ades played the iconic Chicago music festival Lollapalooza this past year and will only keep expanding her undeniable presence in music from here. Written By Azalea Withrow FOLLOW CAROL ADES: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

The intoxication of romantic craving, self-doubting internal pressure, and the conflicting ideas of gluttony and desire bleed through the lyrics of "More" by Kaia Müller. This immersive track uses fire and smoke as an image for power, suffocation, and complete emersion from mentions of breath and fire, to the "rolled up jay" seducing listeners with the desire to lean into floaty bliss. Almost afraid to give into connection, the speaker expresses some apprehension to the idea of "more". This fades into all-consuming imagery with tactile and tangible lyrics like "I gave you thunder, I gave you skin. A candle in the mouth that melted right in." The sound of this indie alternative track blends folk-like resonance in the delivery of the lyrics with pacing racing and slowing with the emotion of the words they carry. Happy guitar riffs layer with glowing electronic notes and soft percussion to open the tune, creating an overall blissful atmosphere that kisses the lines of the soft rock genre. High vocals move from airy to throaty in the verse, reflecting the emotional train of thought that cycles through its lyrics with their tone. Kaia's singing grows strong and bold, projecting through the chorus, almost like she is shouting out into the greater universe. This track has a swagger of its own, exploring simultaneous bliss and unrest with a range of expressive singing with overarching upbeat instrumentals. Frantic and full-hearted, "More" is a passionate journey of metaphysical thinking, identity, and connecting that embodies the human mind in its lyrics and sound. Kaia Müller is a musician from Oregon with a half-American and half-Dutch-Indonesian heritage. Her upbringing in a rainy forest setting cast an evocative grunge shadow over her raw and intimate musical style. With expressive and emotional vocal talents and skills on the guitar, her indie pop rock sound is infused with folky storytelling and a soulful type of swagger that is uniquely her own. She released her debut single "Like a Dog" in 2024, and has collaborated with other artists like YTC on the song "Gracious". Check out the links below to keep up to date with her music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW KAIA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok

If you're looking for a song that is bright, light, and adventurous, look no further. "DON'T LOOK BACK" by Matt Hansen not only captures all of that but it also gives listeners a sense of feeling like they can do absolutely anything. The song weaves in and out of folk and pop reminding listeners of the 2012 era of Mumford and Sons or The Lumineers while combining the modern era version of pop music like Alex Warren. All of this also falls perfectly onto Matt's voice really making this song a perfect storm for a single. On the lyrical side of things, the song preaches the idea of doing work, maybe not seeing the results immediately but reminding us that there's no need to dwell on the past or the things that we cannot change. During most of the song, an acoustic guitar is the sort of star of the show besides the smooth yet gruffness of Matt's voice. The first verse of the song introduces the point of view by pointing out different struggles that this person may be going through. One of my favorite lines that perfectly captures this says, " Still feel that phantom pain" which is such a creative way of descriptive writing. The song structure feels pretty simple but it's almost like Matt does this on purpose since the idea feels the same way. It should be simple to just take what you did in the past and leave it there. Matt even points out in the chorus how difficult this may be by saying, " I know it's harder to ignore but it can't hurt you anymore." I feel like this gives the audience leeway to let them know that he really understands them. Matt Hansen is a singer-songwriter from Los Angeles, CA known for mixing different genres of music like blues, funk, folk and pop. Performing both solo and with a band, Matt is known for being able to express concepts like emotional healing and freedom into the lyrics of songs that reach into the depths of audience members. Matt's songs have accomplished a ton including 10 of them being in the millions in terms of streams on Spotify giving him a whopping 6 million monthly listeners. You can catch Matt at shows all across the country starting November 1st. Written By Breanna M. FOLLOW MATT HANSEN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube