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- Review: "Notch" - sorrycarlee
Falling for someone and seeing a picture perfect future hurts like hell when you find out you were only ever an object to them. They’re all sweet words laced with manipulation so they can take whatever they want from you. “Notch” is a new single from Sorrycarlee about a past guy who compared her to being a comb in a refrigerator. In moments like this it’s easy to lose a sense of self, crumble and lose all trust you once let others hold. Sorrycarlee saw the true amusement of this situation which inspired her to write “Notch.” This track is an upbeat metaphoric banger that brings all the comedic heat. She stated it explores disillusionment, self worth and empowerment that is still painfully relevant to her life today. “Notch” is the type of song you hear and immediately know the girls who get it, get it! The dating scene nowadays is laughable with how many toxic men only want your body and surface level situationships. Carlee pulled the trigger from the start of this track by making the first line a reference to what was said to her. “I’m not a comb, I’m not a refrigerator.” I heavily respect how vulnerable Carlee was with her experience because it allows “Notch” to be relatable for others who have been in her shoes. The ability to recognize when people have wronged you and find a way to rise from that is powerful. Woman are worth so much more than being a “notch” in a mans belt. Sorrycarlee, also known as Carlee Chappell, was on the road to getting her PhD in psychology before the decision to become a singer-songwriter was made. She put her heart into school, making good grades, going to a prestigious university and graduating with a degree in English and Psychology, but her heart needed to be fulfilled elsewhere. Ironically studying to be a therapist has turned her into the perfect artist for lyrical therapy. Carlee started her career co-writing with songwriters Maddie Zahm, Francis Karel, Abigail Barlow, etc. She decided to start her solo career blending pop with diary like lyrics that capture heartbreak and self-discovery. Her debut single “cheap therapy,” was released in 2024 and “Notch” has followed as her sophomore release. Carlee is a confessional, upbeat pop girly who will be on the rise with each project she releases throughout her journey. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW SORRYCARLEE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube
- Review: "Paper Boy" - Kat Velasco
Nashville based country artist, Kat Velasco, has recently released her latest single, “Paper Boy”, on February 21st. Dealing with heartbreak and romance, this track is inspired by Velasaco’s own dating experiences. She uses the lyrics as a way to explain how she is now reflecting on a past relationship, realizing that he really only looked good on paper. At the time, she thought they were perfect for each other and would last forever, however she came to realize his actions made him seem much more invested than he actually was. Everything he was doing and saying seemed completely right, but he really was just acting out what he thought he was supposed to be doing- whatever looked good on paper. Velasco’s lyrics in the first verse describe the quintessential teenage love: boombox on the shoulders, throwing rocks at her window. She even references James Dean, the iconic heartthrob. However, in the pre-chorus Velasco explains that her expectations were way too high, and that she should have realized the truth of their relationship. In the chorus, she sings, “My first name / Looks good with your last / Some things they never last / They just look good on paper / Boy boy / You just look good on paper boy”. Putting a play on the term ‘paper boy’, Velasco’s clear tonality works perfectly as she belts her heart out over this pop and upbeat soundscape. Over the bridge, she slows down and repeats the lyrics of the chorus with an even more heartfelt tone, almost begging with her past self to read between the lines. Hailing from South Carolina but now settled in Nashville, Kat Velasco has always had a soft spot for music. Discovering her passion for the art early on, she performed in various theater opportunities and began releasing her own music in 2021. Her third single, “Leave Me Wild”, was her first big hit, and got her onto popular Spotify playlists, with her 2022 single “Call Me” getting her noticed across the country by various radio stations and interviews. With over 4,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, fans love Velasco’s mix of slight country twang and pop soundscapes. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more more from Kat Velasco. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW KAT: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Right Now" - Bella Rios
To come onto a new season of life with no insight is really a scary thing, and Bella Rios tells of the struggle in her new single, “Right Now”. Coming onto her last year of college, Bella Rios taps into her emotions by writing this moody ballad. This love letter is written to her college besties to let them know that it may seem scary now, but everything will work out in the end. This idea presents itself in the chorus: “I can’t see it right now / but everything’s gonna be fine now / it’s not gonna bring me to my knees / I can see the forest through the trees”. Bella tells the listeners about her determination to push through the obstacles to achieve the end goal. She might not see it yet, but everything will be fine. Whether you’re a senior in high school, college, or making a huge life change, this song is definitely one to blast to regain strength so you can get to the new beginning. Starting off with a strong acoustic, “Right Now” has a sad melody that encapsulates listeners right off the bat. Tying in with vocalizations that hum gracefully throughout the song, it feels like a walk through the winter forest. While this song is full of sorrow, she keeps the positivity at high while reminding herself that trying times should not be easy: “If it comes easy / It’s not always true / Forge it with fire / And start over new”. This song also being a ballad further shows her sentimental self, giving light onto her emotional connection with her surroundings and not wanting to let them go just yet. It’s a love song for the now, as she is unaware of the path forward. When feeling down or lost when dealing with a transitional period in life, this song is a must need to have by your side to lift your spirits and be ready for the new. As she vents these emotions through her rich and powerful voice, she reminds us all that we “Might not see it right now / But everything’s gonna be fine now”. Bella Rios is a pop singer and songwriter, originating from Chicago and now based in Nashville, Tennessee. Her journey began at five-years-old, when she first began learning classical piano, and started soaking up her parents’ collection of musical greats like Fleetwood Mac and Queen. Other contemporary artists during the era like Adele and P!nk also played a role in shaping her musical style. This mixture of musical influence can be heard within Bella’s music, especially with her new EP “Sincerely,” that captures the joys and struggles of being a young adult today. As she tackles topics of love, heartbreak, and mental health, her lyrics are easy to enjoy and sing along to. In addition to her thoughtful lyricism, Bella is a talented musician with expertise in piano and guitar. As a student in Princeton, her friends are her best critics when vibe-checking a song. If they are moved by it and love it, she knows she’s onto something. If you have checked out “Right Now”, be sure to check out her new EP “Sincerely,”! To keep updates, follow her Spotify and Instagram in the links below. Written By Nevaeh Scott FOLLOW BELLA RIOS: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Pillow Hopping" - NIIVA
"Pillow Hopping" is the latest dance pop track from singer-songwriter NIIVA, released on February 14, 2025. The song comes as the lead single off of her upcoming EP, set to release later this year in the summer. If "Pillow Hopping" is any indication of what is to come, this EP will definitely be worth giving a listen. Here, NIIVA blends a synth-filled soundscape with sultry vocals, making this track the perfect addition to any getting ready or going out playlists. The song is all about losing your head and not being able to resist someone that has such a powerful hold over you, even though you know it is only for the night. "Pillow Hopping" marks NIIVA's transition into the grittier side of pop music, while still maintaining the melodic pop that listeners have come to expect and enjoy. On this track, she sings about the rush of fleeting desire and intense attraction with lines like "Touch me like you know me / You can't take it slowly" and "I don't want forever / Just until the sun comes up / I don't mind if you take me for a ride." It's a sexy pop track with infectious hooks and danceable production. If you have ever felt yourself drawn to someone that is probably trouble, you'll find yourself dancing and singing along to this. NIIVA is a Bulgarian-born, England-raised, Canadian-based pop singer-songwriter. She has been acclaimed with honors such as iHeart Radio's Future Star and Amazon Music Canada's Breakthrough Artist. She co-wrote K-Pop hit "Black Mamba" that went number 1 on Billboard World Album Chart, and her own track "Friends" charted at 13 on Billboard Canada. She has earned over a million streams and 27,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. If you enjoyed "Pillow Hopping," make sure to check out the rest of her music. You can also keep up with all the latest information on NIIVA by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW NIIVA: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Red Thunder" - Keara
We’ve all sat at a red light for too long at some point in our lives, just waiting and waiting for it to finally turn green so we can get on with our day. The problem with that is that red lights sometimes give us time to think, and when you’re going through something, it can be troublesome to have a spare moment to dwell on it. Keara’s “Red Thunder” is exactly that, harnessing that feeling of being trapped in a car with nothing but your thoughts and the red flash of the traffic lights on your face– not to mention sitting right next to the person you can’t stop thinking about. Wrapped in a gentle yet energetic soundscape, this single is delightfully contradictory with a cheerful tone that juxtaposes its melancholy lyrics. It’s the kind of song that makes listeners feel heard and seen, with a story that we can all relate to– and even if all your thinking happens not at a red light, you can still understand the sentiment of being stuck in one place with nothing but your thoughts and the person who is central to them. What strikes me most about “Red Thunder” is the atmosphere. The song begins with this super soft guitar, which quickly builds into the song’s overall soundscape. It’s bright and breezy, easy to tap your foot along to and hum with. It's also joined by a smooth underlying bass, which is by far the quickest way to get me to like a song. And once you dive deeper and really listen to the lyrics, you get a brilliant story and message to go with it. But before I talk about the lyrics, I’d love to just mention how clever I think the song’s title is– indicative of both the flash of a red traffic light and sudden, lightning-like realizations, “Red Thunder” is such a witty name for a song that deals with both of these things. The track muses on a relationship that is currently going through a rough patch, with the narrator being imprisoned at a red traffic light and being stuck thinking about the fight they had with their partner, with said partner sitting beside them. Lines such as “Time stops with you” and “Lost, in a wave of you” are evocative of how confined the narrator feels both physically and temporally, cornered by their memories and their partner. “Red Thunder” certainly knows how to capture that tension while simultaneously providing a soundscape that keeps us singing along. Originally hailing from Brandon, Manitoba, singer-songwriter Keara has been pursuing her music career for the past three years in Montréal . Her musical style can be likened to artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Gracie Abrams– Keara's soundscapes are infused with personal, emotional messages and a diary-like feel to their lyricism, joined by a softness in their tones. Her debut single was released in 2024, entitled “Shaelyn”, and was followed in 2025 with “Red Thunder”. “Red Thunder” was especially inspired during Keara’s move to Montréal , during a time when she was looking out at the road and watching the traffic lights turn from green to red. This is only the beginning for Keara; if you enjoyed “Red Thunder”, drop her a follow so you can be notified of her upcoming projects! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW KEARA: Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music
- Review: "Lean on you" - Abbie Redheart
"Lean on you" brings us a better understanding of what it looks like to pursue someone for whom you have high hopes. As the listener we can understand the level of desire the artist has for the other person. There's a genuine sense of hope when the artist talks about trusting the other person with her heart. One of my favorite lines from the song is, "But I'd rather be nowhere / than be without you someday." The lyrics bring a smile to your face because most, if not all, of us have experienced something fairly similar to what Abbie Redheart is expressing here. The chorus of the song sums up the overarching theme beautifully when it says, "If I hold on, baby, would you hold me back would you hold on too / If I needed more than you could give, would you make that move / Cause if I lean in, honey would you tell me I can lean on you." The chorus adds even more depth, helping the listener to feel the full impact of the song. The tone of the song is heartfelt and authentic. It captures the excitement and the vulnerability that comes along with love and all of its new possibilities. The tone helps solidify the mood of the song, which is uplifting and hopeful. We can easily gather the enthusiasm Abbie Redheart has towards the situation at hand. This is further established through the lyrics, which hold a lot of joy. There's a fun fusion of instruments, such as the guitar and drums, alongside more modern production elements. This blend provides a dynamic backdrop that supports and showcases the vocals without overpowering them. Overall, the balance between instrumentation and vocals works well together, allowing the full impact of the song to be felt by the listener. Abbie Redheart is a Derbyshire native. She is now based in London, where she is becoming an emerging force in the alt-pop realm. Abbie Redheart has made a name for herself by blending indie undertones with country warmth, creating a beautiful, delicate yet raw mix. Her lyrics explore topics like love, loss, and self-discovery. She is inspired by timeless classics and modern sounds, infusing her music with a Fleetwood Mac-like energy. Abbie's onstage presence is described as immersive and emotionally charged, allowing the audience to connect with her and her music on a deeper level. Spring is right around the corner, and Abbie Redheart's music should be at the top of your playlist. Check out "Lean on you" and keep your eyes peeled for more from Abbie Redheart. Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Abbie Redheart: Instagram | Spotify
- Album Review: "People Watching" - Sam Fender
“People Watching” is the third studio album from Northern English musician Sam Fender and perhaps his most honest yet. It is rife with details of experiences that have impacted his life, as well as the experiences faced by his loved ones. His songwriting is deep and reflective, never shying away from any ugly truths. He is capable of finding beauty in the mundane and has an aptitude for writing about the struggles of the UK’s working class with care. This album is a shrine to where he comes from and honors those he grew up with. However, it is relatable enough for those from outside of Northern England to project their own experiences on. TRACKLIST People Watching Nostalgia’s Lie Chin Up Wild Long Lie Arm’s Length Crumbling Empire Little Bit Closer Rein Me In TV Dinner Something Heavy Remember My Name People Watching “People Watching” is the lead single and title track of the album. It also marks Fender’s return to music since his last album “Seventeen Going Under” was released in 2021. This song was written in honor of one of Fender’s late loved ones who he describes as a “surrogate mother.” When asked about her connection to his song, Fender said, “ It’s kind of ironic because she was the one that gave me the confidence to go on stage, and always used to be like ‘why haven’t you mentioned my name in your acceptance speech’. But now an entire song (and album) connects to her. I hope that wherever she is now she’s looking down saying ‘about time kid’.” The song is upbeat and catchy in a way that feels like you’re running; whether towards something or away is up to interpretation. Its melody subverts its heart-wrenching lyrics as Fender describes the feeling of responsibility he had to make sure the end of this person’s life was dignified. Despite how hard it can be to shoulder something like that, he does not see it as a burden because, as he says, “that’s just love.” He goes on to describe the empty feeling of seeing other people go about their lives as he feels so much loss on his own following the death of his loved one. He speaks of feeling envious of those who have no idea what he’s going through, and how his envy is a brief respite from his loneliness. It is the perfect song for anyone who has had to care for someone they love and learn to live with the following loss. It is a balm for healing hearts and reminds us to never take a second with anyone for granted. Nostalgia’s Lie “Nostalgia’s Lie” is dedicated to those of us who romanticize even the worst times of our lives. While we long to return to certain places, people or memories, we may forget that they weren’t the best for us. As Fender realizes this, he decides to move forward and embrace all the complex emotions that come with them. He decides to let his defenses down and move through the world with an open heart despite the heartbreak that may come. Chin Up “Chin Up” is the song for anyone simply going through it. Whether that be due to the end of a relationship, the loss of a job or any other kind of life-interrupting event, Fender knows where you’re coming from. While we may want or even need to wallow in self-pity, sometimes there just isn’t enough time when you’re focusing on survival. There is always something else that demands attention; a job to get to, another turbulent political story or friends inviting you on another numbing night out. There is also always the feeling that what you’re going through isn’t bad enough to feel sorry for yourself; when other people have it worse, who are you to complain? This is perhaps the most relatable song on the album, especially for those of us navigating our twenties while preoccupied with the current political and social landscape. Things can feel hopeless and overwhelming, and instead of ignoring it, this song reminds us that sometimes it’s okay to lean in. Wild Long Lie “Wild Long Lie” explores the feelings of denial and escapism when embarking on a night out. Similarly to “Chin Up,” Fender spends most of this song running from his issues rather than handling them head-on. He describes a night out we have all experienced at some point, where everyone has too much to drink and speaks too loudly, trying to get a word in edgewise. These nights are usually much-needed times to forget about the world’s problems with your best friends, only to result in a terrible hangover the next morning. However, he also writes about the sobering realization that he does, in fact, still have to live with the feelings he is trying to numb. In a moment of clarity, he thinks about the changes he needs to make and worries about what is to come. This song puts its listeners in that crushing moment when you are in a bar bathroom, staring back at your reflection in the mirror. Your friends are in the next room, perhaps watering down similar feelings, but you are being forced to look at yourself. This is another song written for the twenty-somethings who are trying (and perhaps feeling like they’re failing) to grapple with the world. Arm’s Length “Arms Length” is a song written for those with an avoidant attachment style, or perhaps those just looking for a hookup without any strings attached. With its melodic guitars and catchy rhythm, Fender repeatedly asks a potential lover, “Do you have to know me inside out to have a good time?” The lyrics are reminiscent of his 2019 single, “Will We Talk?” which narrates the moments leading up to a one-night stand and the emotional ambiguity resulting from the encounter. Fender knows it is selfish of him to ask for the company of someone he will never be emotionally intimate with, but he asks anyway. The instrumentals of this track are complex and effective. The guitar riff is particularly impressive with its intricate melody, creating an earworm of a song that is easy to put on repeat. Crumbling Empire Never one to shy away from speaking on political matters, Fender uses “Crumbling Empire” to elaborate on how the events of the broader world directly affect those he knows at home. His writing is strongest when analyzing the areas where the personal and political collide, and this track is no different. In a song that could come across as gimmicky or “preachy,” Fender holds his own and proves he truly cares about the issues he is speaking about. He uses this song to highlight the real struggles his family and friends have faced in the “crumbling empires” of both Britain and America as the class divide continues to grow. Where both countries once seemingly ruled the world, their flaws are more prominent than ever as they fail to care for their own citizens. This song is less overtly angry than his other political tunes like “Aye” or “Hypersonic Missiles”, but is perhaps more palatable for those who need to be eased into political music. While his passion is still there, this song feels more conversational. Little Bit Closer Fender uses “Little Bit Closer” as an outlet to grapple with his feelings toward religion and his relationship with God. After growing up religious and having religious family members, Fender no longer believes in God and is not sure if he ever truly did. He describes the pain that the Christian church has caused the people he loves and how he is not willing to accept a God who does not love all His people. Fender vows to stand with those who have been abandoned by God, even if it means going to Hell. He realizes that the closest he will ever get to God is when he is experiencing love for others, and with each loving interaction, he gets, “a little bit closer.” Rein Me In Similarly to “Arms Length,” “Rein Me In” was written for those who have a tendency to self-sabotage. Reflecting on the downfall of a previous relationship, Fender must take responsibility for how he ruined a good thing. He is haunted as memories of his lover “ring like tinnitus,” in the places they used to enjoy together. Though he longs to be emotionally intimate and give his partner the love they deserve, he is too afraid to be “reined in” by love and instead rejects anyone who gets too close. Though the lyrics are crushing, they are livened up by jazzy instrumentals. Featuring an upbeat piano and backing saxophone this is one of the more sonically unique songs on the album. TV Dinner “TV Dinner” speaks to celebrity culture and the public’s desire to build someone up just to watch them fall. While celebrities are far from perfect and may deserve to be criticized at times, we also have to remember that they are human and deserve some level of grace. Fender speaks to the public’s infatuation with the “next best thing” and how easy it is to demonize someone who does not live up to impossible standards of perfection. As an example, Fender mentions the hostile attitudes of the media and public towards the late Amy Winehouse, writing, “Like Winehouse, she was just a bairn / They love her now but bled her then.” When asked about this line, Fender also reflected upon the recent loss of singer Liam Payne, saying, “It’s the British culture of building them up to knock ’em down… I wrote that, then Liam Payne died. You think of the amount of times he was getting dragged through the press and he didn’t help himself, did he? …But the reality was that he was just a young lad, famous far too young, who had addiction trouble — and everyone hit him with the pitchforks.” Fender also asks himself if he is ready to face the inevitable fall from grace that the public is waiting for. A deeply private person, he worries that his secrets will also be revealed and jeered at. Something Heavy “Something Heavy” delves deeper into the escapism introduced in “Wild Long Lie” and “Arms Length.” Chronicling another night out and another one-night stand, Fender bears witness to the burdens shouldered by the other bar patrons. As the once-high morale of his town dwindles, Fender refers to the effects the “dog” has on him and those around him. A metaphor for depression, the dog is something that he is unfortunately very familiar with. Furthermore, Fender recognizes that many businesses continue to struggle following the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of inflation. As the customers become shells of themselves, so do the bars. Instead of becoming places of joy and refuge, they reflect the hollowness their customers wish to escape. Remember My Name “Remember My Name” is the final single released before the album officially debuted. Written in honor of Fender’s late grandparents, this song speaks from the perspective of his grandfather who was caring for his grandmother during her battle with dementia. Fender’s vocals on this track are the clearest they have been in the entire project as he takes care to tell the story of their love. He reflects upon the life they created together, a home they have built upon mutual respect and admiration. Similarly to the sentiment in the opening track, Fender describes how his grandfather showed up for his grandmother in simple ways, even when it broke his heart. Because of his love for her, he expected nothing in return but only prayed that she would remember his name in the midst of her illness. This true embodiment of love ties the entire project together and is a satisfying end to such a stunning album. Overall, this is some of Fender’s strongest work. It is filled with an elevated version of his classic sound and his most personal songwriting yet. This album took a few listens for me to digest properly, and I find myself discovering new things each time I put it on. Whether you are struggling with your mental health, fearing the loss of a loved one or trying to grapple with the chaotic state of the world, you are bound to find something on this project that you connect with. Hopefully, you can be comforted by it as well. Written By Tessa Brainard Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Review: "Better" - Casey McQuillen
Casey McQuillen is back with another confidence anthem on her newest single, "Better." "Better" is a feel-good, cheeky song about knowing your worth and settling for nothing less. It's relatable, fun, and filled with Casey's charm and wit. From the beginning, Casey's artistry focused on self-love and empowerment. She created and starred in the sensational anti-bullying tour "You Matter," for over 50,000 schools worldwide, and her music tackles themes of body positivity and mental health. And "Better" is yet another wonderful example of this. "Better" is filled with catchy fun mantras to tell yourself whenever you need a reminder that you are worth it. With "Better," Casey shows why she is one of the most necessary and important songwriters around now. Casey has a special ability to make meaningful music fun. From the very first line ("My friends all tell me do it for the plot") "Better" establishes itself as a song that doesn't take itself too seriously. Casey's strong sense of humor and tongue-in-cheek is a total blast to listen to. "Better" is just an all-around good time. The lyrics are playful and the production is an instant earworm with a groovy R&B-inspired sound. It's hard not to smile when listening to "Better" which makes the messaging hit all the harder. The lyric "I know I'll just be fine if it's just me forever" is sung with such strength and conviction that Casey makes you feel like you can be happy on your own too. "Better" is an unapologetically bold and loud self-love anthem that we could all use right now. Casey McQuillen is a singer-songwriter based in London, England. In 2014, Casey was a contestant on season 13 of American Idol, where millions of viewers fell in love with her voice and distinct personality. Since then, Casey's career has only grown bigger and brighter. As previously noted, Casey went on the “You Matter” Tour, which was a massive success. She inspired thousands of students worldwide and the tour became recognized by the UN. Her message of self-love and strength landed her a performance on the Kelly Clarkson show. Casey’s debut album Skinny, created several hits, including “In & Out,” which currently has almost 200,000 streams on Spotify. Casey has made a strong name for herself as an inspirational artist who champions self-acceptance and you can listen to her discography, including “Better” on all streaming platforms now. Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW CASEY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "Stranger (2025 Version)" - as1one
Amassing over 1 million views in the past 3 months, as1one's reimagined single, "Stranger 2025 Version," touches fans with its incredibly raw account on love and loss. Carrying a sentimentality throughout its warm melody and candid lyrics, the track reminds us of the risk we take in allowing ourselves to fall in love, in allowing ourselves and our hearts to be completely vulnerable. as1one captures the complicated back-and-forth that is yearning and acceptance, singing in the midst of inevitable change and Life's cruel continuity. Full of hopefulness, pining, adoration, and a fondness for what or who once was, as1one successfully pulls at our heart strings yet again, giving us a beautiful song that we simply can't get enough of. "Stranger" forces us to come to terms with the question we've all asked ourselves: "Will I be a stranger when I see you again?" At its core, "Stranger" is a compelling track that makes us reflect on our emotional dilemmas while still managing to look forward. Starting out with a simple, delicate piano instrumental and steady vocals, the listener is instantly drawn to every lyric and breath. While the vocals aren't isolated, they stand out in the intricately built texture of the track, creating a dramatic, yet sentimental feel. As the verse progresses, more instruments are introduced and the emotional impact grows with each passing measure. The tight harmonies, firm drums, and catchy melody seem to become more and more impassioned as one keeps listening. Though the subject matter is heavy in its realness, the upbeat tone works to uplift our spirits, urging us to hold our heads high in hopes that we will reunite with that special someone. In all, as1one's production, lyricism, and creative vision really shine through in this song, giving us something warm to hold onto in our turmoil and hardship. Composed of 6 members, Aseel Farah, Nadav Philips, Neta Rozenblat, Niv Lin, Ohad Attia, and Sadik Abu Dogosh, as1one has entered the pop world with wide great ambition, diverse perspectives, and an abundance of talent. Forming in 2022 and relocating to the U.S. in 2023, the group has devoted itself to writing and recording music that aims to not only touch people's hearts but also their minds. Arriving in the states during a critical point in global history and conflict, right before the Israel-Hamas war, the group has channeled their sentiments through a foundational brotherhood built from their shared love for music and sound. Using pop as the vessel, as1one spreads its powerful messages to all, inspiring listeners to overcome adversity and keep pushing forward no matter what. For more updates and releases, follow their socials below! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW ARTIST: Instagram | Spotify | YouTube
- Review: "haunted" - Oliver Pinder
Oliver Pinder's "haunted" is a beautiful exploration of unresolved emotional baggage and the lingering impact of past relationships. The song speaks to the feeling of being pursued by memories and regrets, as if you're trapped in a ghostly loop of your own emotions. The lyrics convey a sense of entrapment, where the past continuously resurfaces despite efforts to move forward. The metaphor of being "haunted" becomes a powerful image, relatable to anyone who has struggled with the aftermath of a breakup or the weight of a failed connection. "haunted" perfectly captures the restless feeling of replaying the last conversation, replaying the last moments, or endlessly searching for closure that never arrives. For listeners, this could easily resonate with moments when the echoes of a past relationship seem to follow you into new chapters. It's for when you're trying to rebuild but can't quite escape the shadows of who you once were with someone. "haunted" is a blend of atmospheric indie-pop and melancholic soul, with a sound that perfectly captures the emotional weight of its theme. The song unfolds slowly, beginning with a electric guitar that establishes a somber, reflective mood. As it progresses, subtle layers of ambient synths and a soft, steady drumbeat are introduced. It creates a textured landscape that feels ethereal yet grounded. Pinder's voice is a standout, tender and vulnerable, with a slight rasp that adds rawness to the performance. His delivery fluctuates between quiet introspection and moments of poignant urgency, echoing the song's exploration of being emotionally consumed by the past. Listening to "haunted" feels like walking through a fog of past regrets -- unsettling, yet oddly comforting as the song's vulnerability invites you to sit with your own emotional ghosts. Oliver Pinder is a musical artist from Wakefield, UK. His musical style has evolved since his artistic hiatus, his sound going from dark, indie-folk to eclectic, guitar driven alternative anthems. Pinder's musical inspirations include Matilda Mann, Jeremy Zucker, Wunderhouse, and Bleachers. The message behind his music is to capture the anxieties of today's younger generations, which makes it relatable for listeners to enjoy. His music has been featured on BBC, Radio 6, and BBC Introducing which has helped grow his success. Pinder and his band have played for festivals stages at The Great Escape, Barn on the Farm, Humber Street Sesh and the Long Division. Be on the look out for Pinder's first long form mixtape that he's working on right now, along with streaming his discography! Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW OLIVER: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Website | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "I'm Trying" - Izzy Woodland
Change and growth are interchangeable. Sometimes to get by all you have to do is try. Try to accept the new phenomenon’s in your life and change how you react to the newness in your life. There’s a vicious cycle surrounding change that’s laced with fear. “I’m Trying” by Izzy Woodland is a song about giving yourself grace to better your life moving forward from a difficult time. Change is never easy. You might feel like you’re walking on eggshells and waiting for the moment they crack, but change is finding the desire to come up with a solution for the hurt and pain you’re experiencing. There’s a lot of metaphors and imagery in this song. For example, when Izzy sings that she’ll be “quiet as a mouse so that I don’t irrevocably cause a scene” describes her feelings of being afraid to use her voice to its full potential because she does not want to cross anyone. She doesn’t want to be a problem or cause any sort of commotion. Through the song, Izzy realizes that change is intimidating but it’s only necessary to grow and move forward. It’s a big step to move into the unknown and not know the outcome. It shows that strength will always overpower weakness, but it might take some time to find the strength within yourself. Izzy wants to feel things. She wants to “raise my hand up to the sky and paint the color blue”, which can symbolize her desire and longing to be free and how that will allow her to be more open with herself and the world around her. Produced by Jack Gilbert “I’m Trying” is a song that shows how change and growth impact each other. This song carries the weight of emotional vulnerability and is told through a personal narrative. The song is an acoustic track with a folk and indie feel to it. The guitar serves as a foundation that Izzy’s vocals build upon. Izzy’s voice is soft and it’s easy to hear her convey her emotions based on how she sings. Lyrically, this song proves that Izzy can take a personal experience and make it relatable. It also shows her emotional depth and ability to use creative metaphors and symbols through her music. Izzy described “I’m Trying” as a love song to yourself, and after listening I certainly agree. Izzy Woodland is a British indie singer. Izzy’s been described by BBC Radio Kent’s Abbie McCarthy as an “indie pop star”. Izzy is relatively new to the music scene but has been a musician from a very young age. She learned how to play the guitar and write songs since she was young and developed her talent as she got older. She debuted her first single “Lay Down” in July 2023. Besides “Lay Down” and “I’m Trying” she also has two other singles “Parenthesis” which came out in 2023 and “Crossroads” which came out in 2025. “Parenthesis” was featured on the ‘BBC Introducing’ show on BBC Radio Kent in January 2024. If you like indie music, Izzy Woodland is the girl for you. Check out “I’m Trying” and give it a listen! Written By Alexa LaMalfa FOLLOW IZZY WOODLAND: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Don't Fall Asleep To This" - The Ivy
With many miles between us and someone we love, we cannot help but long to be with them as the distance continues to grow. It is difficult to be away from someone who is constantly on our minds, and the further we stray away from them, the more we may feel that something is missing in our lives. One phone call can be worth a million when the person we love is far away, but it can be hard when you wish for more in the relationship. The Ivy and Lyncs keeps our hopes alive to the hurdles we may face in long distance relationships. Even with the distance between us and the person we love, the happiness in knowing that they are someone we will always rely on can keep us awake to the future we can look forward to having with them. We are awakened to a dreamy tone that grows to a bright and lively beat. They start by emphasizing the frustrations that can come from being in a long distance relationship. Time is lost between them, and although they do not let each other see it, they still wish for more in the relationship. The chorus is gentle yet powerful and emotional as they share their love for one another even with the distance between them. They are one call away from each other, and the miles between them cannot take away their love. In the end, they will always be there for one another and are ready to break down the walls between them to be together again. The happy, energetic melody of the song reflects the message of hope in long distance relationships. The Ivy and Lyncs' "Don't Fall Asleep To This" is the song that will truly keep us awake to the hope of closing the distance between us and that special someone who is one call away. Wyatt Clem has joined forces with Shawn Abhari to form the unpredictable, yet powerful duo, The Ivy. Wyatt Clem is a singer, songwriter and guitarist who was influenced greatly by R&B and the blues. Shawn Abhari is a songwriter, synth player and bassist who loved emo and pop punk like Blink-182 and Green Day. They found how well their styles of music balanced with one another after meeting at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Oklahoma City. In 2017, they went viral with their songs "Gold" and "Have You Ever Been in Love." With millions of streams and three critically acclaimed EPs, it is clear that The Ivy is truly a powerhouse in the music industry and will continue to make waves in the indie pop scene. Written By Nini Alano FOLLOW THE IVY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube


















