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  • Review: "DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY" - Carlee Morales

    Allow yourself to breathe and center yourself through facing your fears with “DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY” from artist Carlee Morales. From the first beat, a positive outlook on the future is embedded into the song’s sound. Morales begins “DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY” with the background sounds of a camera shutter and rev of a starting engine, not only clearly & intelligently indicating the start of the track but additionally giving context to the song’s setting. “DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY” embodies a love letter, both to travel and to the person spoken to in the track. With detailed decisions made, such as the inclusion of a camera shutter sound, the picture of a passion-filled relationship is beautifully painted across an audiological canvas. This relationship is one that seeks physical destinations of beauty, yet does the same – if not more – with emotional destinations as well. All in all, Morales describes a story that can be seen on the surface – through picturing a pair traveling from various place to place – and a story that sinks beneath layers, additionally alluding to highways of life that the pair will have to navigate in their time together. While it’s at first noticed that the pair described in “DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY” is following a physical trip, I found myself more drawn to the emotional journey these two are on. This trip is a gamble for both of them, as detailed in lyrics such as, “Can’t see the ending but we’re feeling great.” These two are focused on the plan ahead, and one another, leaving the future open to interpretation. To not have a “single doubt” nor “an ETA”, this both shows listeners how open this connection is as well as their commitment to adventure is. On top of this, the overall ambience that the sound of “DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY” emits perfectly meshes with the picture painted through its lyrics. While this pair is “paving tomorrow in a Chevrolet”, the laid-back, breezy guitar and speedy drums of the track transports you to the backseat of the car. The harder you fall into the track, the deeper you sink into the sand on a beach or in the waves of the ocean. “DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY” embodies the feeling of freedom – in multiple different ways, showing how joy and trust cannot be put into a box. Carlee Morales is a singer-songwriter, drummer, and producer based in California. Over the last few years, Morales has been drawn to the overall music-making process. Whether it be the sound of guitars near a waterfall, cinematic drums, or space-like production, Morales enjoys playing around with music and not placing herself within a certain box. Morales’ vocals match the style & flow of artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Gracie Abrams, while her production has ranged from taking inspiration from artists like Lorde to leaning into a more fun-filled, 2000’s-adjacent sound. With Morales additionally being a drummer, music that fits a high energy especially speaks to her. “DRIVE EVERY HIGHWAY”, Morales’ most recent release, embodies the adventurous spirit she puts into her music and, with Morales playing every instrument recorded on the track, shows just how much energy she puts into her work. Morales is dedicated to only completing her work, and doing it well, but doing it the way she wants to. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW CARLEE MORALES: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

  • Review: "Talk To Me" - Marie Pratt

    Marie Pratt's "Talk to Me" is a powerful anthem for anyone who has been on the receiving end of ghosting. In the modern age of dating, communication has been lost. Instead of admitting to losing interest, people resort to blocking the person they are seeing and going radio silent. Pratt’s latest single is a cathartic release for the artist and every single listener who has experienced ghosting. The lyrics read like a conversation left half-spoken, full of unasked questions and unsaid words. Pratt highlights the disconnect – the gap between the two people – when she sings: "What if when we can decide how / We choose to talk / I am listening, you're not singing alone." The song alludes to the attempts to bridge the space between two hearts. Pratt implores her subject to break the vicious cycle of ghosting that has become so widely accepted. Instead, she wants them to lay it all out on the table, even if it may break her heart. This scenario is much easier than the silent waiting game – the moment when the lack of communication becomes the loudest form of conversation. The lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own relationships, from past, present, and future, and allow them a powerful outlet to resonate in. "Talk to Me" is a masterclass in minimalism, blending sparse instrumentation with a rich, emotive vocal delivery that pulls listeners in. The song's structure is simple and subtle, using a repeating guitar riff and mid-tempo beat that showcases Pratt's voice. Her vocal performance is nothing short of captivating: there's a raw intimacy in her tone, like she's speaking directly to the listener in a moment of vulnerability. The instruments -- light percussion and gentle pluck of the guitar -- create a spacious atmosphere, allowing the song's emotional weight to hang in the air. The mood of the song is reflective, tinged with longing, almost navigating the delicate space between isolation and connection. It's a song that lingers long after it's over, leaving listeners with a sense of quiet yearning. It's a reminder of the power of silence and words left unspoken. Marie Pratt is a singer-songwriter from a city between Barcelona and Costa Brava. Her successful career includes appearances on media outlets and stages like Jamboree, Harlem Jazz Club, RTVE, and TV3. Pratt captivates the audience with her stage presence -- adding passion, talent, personality to each performance. Her music style blends R&B, Soul, Funky, and Pop which emphasizes her powerful and sensual voice. Pratt prides herself on her ability to connect with the audience through deep and meaningful lyrics that resonate for listeners. She said it best herself, "music ignites hearts" which is why she infuses her music with love and emotion. Listen to Pratt's two acclaimed albums! Written By Catherine Espejo Revised by Karlee Skipper & Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW MARIE: Instagram   | Spotify  | Website  | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: “All About Us” - Joseph Morris

    One thing that I find beautiful about the start of a new relationship is the vulnerability that can be shared or expressed with your significant other. Whether that means opening up about a past relationship that didn’t work out, or struggles or insecurities that you may be feeling. That’s the idea behind today’s newest single. “All About Us” is the latest single by British singer and songwriter, Joseph Morris. The song is about feeling safe with someone, despite struggling with your own insecurities and struggles. I knew that I should expect a slower song, so I’m glad I was right. This song had some incredible writing, especially in the second verse, my favorite lyric being “I love the way you’ve lift me up and how you’ve built my trust / How have I got here, never knowing of this future us? / I never knew how I needed you until tonight / Cause this is how good it could be, when it’s all going right.” This song almost sounds stripped-down with its simplicity compared to some of the other songs I’ve heard of his. The primary component is the piano, which is really able to truly shine in this song. I think with the lyrics Morris wrote, the song didn’t need any insane instrumental accompaniment. I think the use of the piano really allowed me to dive deep into the meaning behind the song… and the emotions behind the lyrics. I also love how as Morris gets toward the end of the song, he truly lets his emotions take over. He starts to belt a bit more and use his head voice. I could sense nothing but raw passion and vulnerability in those moments, and it really sold the song for me in the end. Joseph Morris is a singer and songwriter from Worcester in the United Kingdom. He first got his start in music back in 2016 with the release of his debut single, “This Is My Truth”. Then, just two years later… his second single, “I Deserve Better”, got its first radio appearance. Since then, Morris has gone on to release countless other singles. Some of his hits such as “Searching for You”, “Devoted”, and “Have I Lost My Mind” have gotten tens of thousands of streams. Throughout his career, Morris has even gotten the opportunity to perform with artists such as Boyzlife, So Solid Crew, and even James Arthur, who won the X Factor back in 2012. I expect Joseph Morris to have a bright and long career ahead of him, and I can’t wait to hear what he releases next. Be sure to go and stream “All About Us” everywhere, now! Written By Isabel Mays FOLLOW JOSEPH MORRIS: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube | Website

  • Review: "Don't Really Know Where I'm Going" - sadbot

    "Don't Really Know Where I'm Going" is the latest single from singer-songwriter sadbot. "Don't Really Know Where I'm Going" is an epic pop ballad about the pitfalls of nostalgia paired with a fittingly throwback instrumental. sadbot, in line with his name, creates a glitchy techno banger on this new release. The beat is loud and clipping, and the synths are blaring and robotic. sadbot brilliantly combines 80s sounds with futuristic modern production. He makes a wonderful 80s pastiche that still maintains its own aesthetic and is a sound all of his own. "Don't Really Know Where I'm Going" combines the fun, high-energy sounds of synthesizers and vocoder with an emotional lyrical depth that is bound to make you dance and feel seen. On "Don't Really Know Where I'm Going" sadbot shows off his skills as a songwriter. Fans of artists like The Weeknd or Daft Punk will find lots to love within the synth-wave sound on display here, and the lyricism is wistful and deep. "Don't Really Know Where I'm Going" earnestly laments the anxieties that come with feeling lost in life. It's a sentiment all too familiar nowadays, and sadbot writes about it in a way that is simultaneously universal and personal. "Preemptive nostalgia hits like no other, but what a lonely way to live" is one of many lines from the track that hit just a little too close to home. The songwriting is honest, poetic, and completely relevant. sadbot's music encompasses the issues of today with a sound that is as singular as it is timeless. sadbot, also known as Isaac White, is a singer-songwriter whose music focuses on sounds of disco, funk, synthpop, and soul. sadbot officially started making solo music in 2021, after his previous band RedFaces ended. His debut track was called "Happy Just to Be Yours," and currently has over 8000 streams on Spotify. Since then, the musician has released over nine more songs. These tracks, which include "The Loser," "Later," and "4 AM (Fashionably Lonely)" all showcase sadbot's singular sonic aesthetic. sadbot's sound is distinct and refined; synths, dance beats, heavy basslines, and relatable humanistic lyrics are all quintessential elements of White's discography. The artist has only been releasing for a few years now and it is extremely exciting to see where he goes next. You can listen to "Don't Really Know Where I'm Going," alongside the rest of sadbot's discography, on all streaming services now. Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW SADBOT: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "Dangerous Inbetween" - Zoe Warren

    Coming to the stage strong and powerful, Zoe Warren stuns listeners with her latest single, "Dangerous Inbetween," an explosive rock track that explores the dangerous yet addictive nature of an unclear relationship. The song's infectious guitars and Warren's dynamic singing make for quite the presentation, exciting listeners with its nostalgic style of early 2000s alternative rock. "Dangerous Inbetween" by Zoe Warren deserves all the high praise it can get because it absolutely rocks, and Zoe Warren shines like a star as she belts out magic, relaying her tale of dangerous games and affairs. "Dangerous Inbetween" explores the difficulties of being in a friends with benefits relationship that only ever leaves open questions of what the future has in store, and yet, the two people in the relationship can't seem to stop all the fun. As the guitars play loud and strong, they mimic the emotional intensity of this situation and really electrify listeners. They ignite passion that fuels the conflict of knowing the dangers of this relationship. Warren has that classic female rock vocalist tone to her performances, she's certainly frontwoman material. She has the kind of voice you want to hear sing multiple styles of music. As previously mentioned, the track is reminiscent of early 2000s alternative rock, and you can especially hear it in the chorus, the way it explodes and the infectious melody that sinks its teeth into your head. By the time "Dangerous Inbetween" finishes, you find yourself pressing play over and over again, wanting to stay in this space just a little longer.  Zoe Warren is an artist originally from Whitehaven, England. She is inspired by strong female vocalists in the alternative rock genre like Hayley Williams and Avril Lavigne. She has been releasing music for some time now, her first being "Fairytales" released in 2015. This release is in collaboration with bass player Robert Lambert, guitarist Callum Watson, and drummer Andrew Bates. With "Dangerous Inbetween," Warren wanted to take an edgier and more fun direction than what she previously released, which certainly comes across in this track. With that in mind, you can see that this new direction Zoe Warren has decided to take fits like a glove and only excites listeners at what other risks she's willing to take. Written By Chantal Charles FOLLOW ZOE WARREN: Instagram   | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "Lincoln place" - Angelica Barrera

    Angelica Barrera's "Lincoln place" is a deeply introspective reflection on the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. Barrera's raw vocals, paints a vivid picture of someone grappling with the aftermath of a love that's slowly unraveling. Lines like, "And I so naive / Didn't listen, big mistake / So now you come tell me / I'm sorry I'll never forget you" evoke a sense of nostalgia, where even the familiar streets, once filled with shared moments, now feel cold and distant. The vulnerability in her delivery resonates with anyone who's faced the bitter realization that love has become something unrecognizable. The song resonates with the feeling of losing touch with someone who once felt like home. It can feel familiar when listening, serving as a reminder of coming to terms with how much you changed. "Lincoln place" offers a soundtrack to that quiet heartbreak and self-realization. "Lincoln place" is a beautiful song that crafts an atmosphere that feels intimate and introspective. The song opens with a delicate acoustic guitar, its finger-picked patterns creating a soft, almost fragile texture that underscores Barrera's voice. As the song progresses, light percussion and sparse piano chords weave in, adding a subtle but effective depth without overwhelming the track. Barrera's vocals are the centerpiece --- her voice is ethereal and tender, dripping with emotion in every word, maintaining a quiet strength. The mood is melancholic, but not overly somber. There's a sense of acceptance in the air, as if the song is a bittersweet reckoning rather than a despairing lament. It's a song that invites you to lean in and listen closely. Angelica Barrera is a singer-songwriter based in New York City, NY. Her musical sound is a blend of pop and R&B, heavily integrating synth elements. She was born in Colombia and moved to the United States at eleven, using her multicultural upbringing to shape her artistic vision. Initially, a trained dancer, she found her calling in music, influenced by melodies and rhythms she learned from dancing. "Lincoln place" is Barrera's debut single, so be sure to stream it on your preferred streaming platform. Make sure you follow Barrera on Spotify and Instagram for any new updates. I can't wait to see what else Barrera creates in the future! Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW ANGELICA: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "Morals" - Danica Bryant

    The song ‘Morals’ by Danica Bryant is exactly what the music industry is moving towards in terms of honest, raw, bubbly artistry. What seems to be the New Zealand version of Sabrina Carpenter without taking any credit away from Danica, this song explores the honest truth of how our morals, when not aligned with another person, feels incredibly wrong. What Danica reminds us is that it’s a common human feeling which relates to an audience who has no problem speaking their minds and communicating their feelings but might feel like they’re putting themselves out there too much. What makes Danica so unique is the contrast of these lyrics behind a fun, comforting, girly pop beat underneath.  Danica opens the song up immediately with her singing over a simple guitar rhythm which gives the song room to grow throughout. This is a nice touch since the lyrics are so well thought out that you’re able to pay attention to what she’s saying more. The raw honesty comes from lines like, “been selfish with my words” and  “trying hard to be enough” before entering a chorus that reminds the listener of summer. The chorus is versatile in the sense that you want to roll down your windows to blast it but also can go to the gym to run to it. It’s relatable and the truth. Danica’s ability to keep things versatile while relatable is what makes her songs unique.  Danica Bryant is a singer-songwriter from New Zealand whose concern is about making music that speaks on celebrity culture and mental health. Bringing a bright pink aesthetic should not be misleading about her punches in her lyrics. Her ideas and opinions are loud and understood which is the wave that the music industry is moving. Her 2020 debut EP ‘Cider’ landed her a spot on APRA’s prestigious Songhubs while her follow-up singles ‘Heart Eyes’ and ‘Ready to Bite’ saw her debut to the NZ Hot Singles Chart. Danica Bryant’s inventive sound, honest lyrics, and rich vocals make her topical no matter the occasion. Written By Breanna M. FOLLOW DANICA BRYANT Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Vigilant" - Laura Holliday

    Self preservation is a natural instinct in life, and sometimes it even follows us into our love lives. The excessive need to protect yourself from being hurt even if that isn’t the outcome. Over preparing for every situation you could find yourself in, just to know you have a way out. We can start to keep a guard on our hearts through past experiences where trust was betrayed. Laura Holliday released her new single “Vigilant” about learning to be cautious in love. It’s an eye opening indie pop song with raw vocals and catchy instrumentation. It’s the perfect listen if you're one to put on extra tough armour and find comfort in knowing you aren't the only one. The world is a scary place and we keep observing that every single day. When we start to fear what’s beyond our front door, it’s easy to bring that into our personal life. Relationships and connections become scary all due to the what if’s. Laura added a lot of metaphors into “Vigilant”  like paying attention to strangers, checking locks, strategizing before speaking, etc. and comparing it to how they are in love. “Everybody wants love but no body feels safe.” Connecting with people is an incredibly beautiful gift and sometimes we just have to take a leap of faith and trust that whoever you let in will prove that. We can’t be hesitant forever when there’s that one person willing to give us the adventure we deserve. Laura Holliday is a triple threat singer/songwriter, filmmaker and actor currently based in Los Angeles. With a natural gift for arts, they attended Idyllwind Art’s Academy at the age of 16 where they got to write soundtracks for student films. Her talent didn’t go unnoticed and at 18 they got contacted by a music manager which led to LA. Laura’s debut single “Ammunition” was released in 2017, but it wasn’t until 2019 that they started performing and recording independently. They got to open for Chappell Roan at a house show which is so insane that I would fit into every conversation if I was her. They now work with Alyssa Wilkens to regularly write, produce and release music. Laura is a multi-talented artist exploring themes of trauma, gender queerness and chronic illness so give them a listen! Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW LAURA HOLLIDAY: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Surprise Me" - Ryan Smith

    Ryan Smith's latest single, "Surprise Me," marks an exciting evolution in his musical journey, stepping away from his traditional acoustic roots to dive head-first into the realm of vibrant pop. The electrifying track captures the exhilaration of new love, its creation inspired by the joyful ambiance of a friend's wedding where Ryan first performed the song live. From its infectious rhythms to Ryan's dynamic saxophone performance, "Surprise Me" encapsulates the unpredictability and spark of a burgeoning romance. With energetic beats and a dance-worthy melody, the song is a compelling addition to the pop genre, resonating with listeners who crave both emotion and rhythm in their music. Musically, "Surprise Me" showcases Ryan Smith’s ability to transform a simple solo guitar piece into a full-fledged pop anthem, complete with layered production and irresistible hooks. The track’s infectious energy is a testament to Ryan's growing versatility as an artist, demonstrated by his seamless incorporation of the saxophone, which adds a unique flair to the song. The vibrant production captures the feeling of pure joy and excitement, reflecting Ryan's intent to convey the magic of a special connection during the early stages of a relationship. The song’s exuberant vitality makes it a standout release in Ryan's 2024 catalog, solidifying his place as a dynamic force in contemporary pop music. Hailing from Leeds, England, Ryan Smith is a versatile musician whose artistic endeavors span a wide musical spectrum. From his debut EP "Heartstrings & Hesitations," which showcased his acoustic prowess, to the high-energy pop of "Surprise Me," Ryan's journey reflects a dedication to exploring new sounds and expanding his creative horizons. As a founding member of the band Fools Arcade, Ryan has also ventured into indie rock, further showcasing his musical versatility and adaptability. With each release, whether as a solo artist or with his band, Ryan captivates audiences with heartfelt melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply. His commitment to his craft ensures that his music continues to evolve, drawing listeners into the vibrant narratives he creates. As Ryan Smith continues to innovate and create, his music remains a testament to his passion and artistic growth, promising exciting new chapters ahead. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW RYAN: Instagram   | Spotify  | LinkTree  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "The Way You Make Me Feel" - RISE

    Bask in the uplifting feeling of togetherness that comes from RISE's song "The Way You Make Me Feel". This bright track will enthrall you with proclamations of love and devotion, recognizing the way a romance can ease the stresses of life and make you feel accepted for who you are in its lyrics. The chorus repeats the song's title boldly, with each repetition offering a heartwarming feeling of reassurance. Embracing communication and stability, this track truly embodies the comforting thrill of a long-term relationship. Let your heart race with the upbeat message of romance that pulses throughout this track. Listeners will love the way this song takes them on a sonic journey through a powerful 1980's-esque blend of sound, bold and assured just like its lyrics. Glowing ambient synth chords start off the tune with a building sense of excitement before bold electric guitar and drums join in, offering a truly uplifting introduction to this bright anthem of devotion. stayMellow's vocals are expressive and bold, loudly projecting over the instrumentals with a distinctively passionate sound. Alex Mahoney's percussion infuses the song with a vibrant energy as Brian Petch's guitar skills bring in elaborate riffs and electric chords. The various instruments in this song compliment one another, with Paul Kinley's synth talents layering an entrancing electronic element into the track. RISE is a rock-synth band from Liverpool with a dynamic alternative sound. The group is made up of Alex Mahoney on drums, Brian Petch on guitar, and Paul Kinley on synthesizer. The band collaborates with vocalist and bassist stayMellow, also known as Sam Kinley, and have released several singles and an EP since forming last year. They put out energetic music that fosters feelings of perseverance and togetherness in their lyrics and sound. The band has an upcoming show in April at MadLife Stage & Studios in Woodstock, Georgia alongside Mad Margritt. Check out the links below to keep up to date with their music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW RISE: Instagram   | Spotify  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "Broke and Gay" - Dearly

    Dearly’s newest single is for the 20-somethings just trying to get by in the 21st century. “Broke and Gay” takes the listener on a journey through the lows of getting by when the state of the world is rough and confusing. Although that sounds depressing, Dearly takes these fears, mistakes, and hardships and turns them into an indie pop smash- all while establishing herself as a gay icon for the new age. “Broke and Gay” begins with a list of Dearly’s misfortunes- including “always feeling a little bit nauseous”, she can’t find her weed, and she ran out of time and money. Do any of these sound familiar to you? The true beauty of this track is its relatability. Despite the unique identity of Dearly, stated in “Broke and Gay” as a lesbian ex-mormon, we’ve all been in the position of needing money, your car breaking down, and all-around feeling like you’ve misguided yourself somewhere along your journey.  “Broke and Gay” is a true alternative pop track. With a mild beginning, only accompanied by Dearly’s vocals, acoustic guitar, and soft drums, we’re already anticipating what will happen next. The listener will be taken aback as the chorus begins (after the silly bit of “bumming for cigs at the lesbian bar”) with a heavy bass guitar and the crashing of drums- the music of “Broke and Gay” takes a high-energy turn that’ll get you head-banging before you realize. Along the way we are greeted with a stunning electric guitar solo that emphasizes the true alternative aspect of the track. It derives into a slow bridge, a switch that isn’t staggering but fits perfectly into Dearly’s intent for “Broke and Gay”. The chorus serves one more time as the outro, ending with the titular phrase of the song: “I’m sorry that she turned out broke and gay." Dearly is an alternative pop artist based in Nashville, TN. “Broke and Gay” is the follow up to their 2024 release “Dykes On Bikes”. Both similar in the way that they are both full of passion, energy, and alt pop melodies, Dearly is making music for those that challenge the norm. Her music is personal and sometimes hilarious, being able to make light of the struggle which at times can be difficult. Listeners of Chappell Roan , The Last Dinner Party , and Wet Leg will enjoy Dearly’s refreshing take on the alt pop scene. To see more of Dearly and their upcoming projects, you can follow her through the links below! Written By Navi Madrid FOLLOW DEARLY: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

  • EP Review: "The Side Effects of You" - Cate Tomlinson

    Los Angeles, California based Gen Z alt. pop singer/songwriter, Cate Tomlinson has recently dropped her sophomore EP, "The Side Effects of You". TRACKLIST The Ring of Fire Half Lover MY EX FRIEND Like the boys Strawberry Moon Side Effects Originally from San Francisco, Cate Tomlinson started out playing the piano when she was younger, which turned into a passion for writing lyrics and crafting melodies. She went on to attend college in Boston, Massachusetts where she graduated from the Music Industry program at Northeastern University. During her time in college in 2022, she released her debut single, "notes app apology". She continued to release a handful of singles before graduating and moving back to California, this time to Los Angeles, where she'd release her debut EP in 2023 titled "Blueberry Season". Cate caught the attention of the indie music scene with her vulnerable storytelling and captivating soundscapes, now currently pushing 80k+ monthly Spotify listeners. With the release of her second EP, "The Side Effects of You", Cate is ready to take things to the next level by giving us her most honest and bold project yet to come. Let's get into these tracks! The Ring of Fire We kick off the EP with "The Ring of Fire", a haunting dark pop banger about how easily manipulated you can be by toxic people when you're a good person who just wants to love and be loved. Cate uses her compelling storytelling skills to create an analogy for this song, where the boy she's singing about is actually the real life devil; someone made of pure evil who is trying to get her to sacrifice herself with the promise that they'd get to be together forever in the afterlife. This is just a twisted game they play because they enjoy seeing you suffer, while you've been mesmerized and hypnotized by their enigmatic charm. It's like you're under a spell, and you can't resist the temptation even if deep down you know it's a bad idea to trust them. With a heavy bass and beat plus minimalistic alt. pop production, Cate puts heavy emphasis on stunning vocals and a very eerie atmosphere to make you feel the seriousness of this situation. Half Lover Next we have "Half Lover", which was the first single to be released last year in anticipation for the EP release, and it debuted with a music video! Shot on 16mm film by award-winning director Luigi Calabrese , the "Half Lover" music video is giving classic horror movie vibes with a twist. Let's just say, don't mess with Cate Tomlinson. "Half Lover" is about being in a situationship where you're in love with someone that is leading you on. One second they make you feel like you're the love of their life, and they next second you haven't heard back from them in days. They only want you when it's convenient for them and they have no consideration for you feelings whatsoever. This song takes a pop/rock approach with heavy electric guitar and crashing drums while still keeping dark pop undertones with synthesizers. Cate sings powerfully and unapologetically, giving this song an anthemic feel. MY EX FRIEND "MY EX FRIEND" is about exactly what it is titled. Cate wrote this song to turn a negative situation into a banger of a song, and probably one of the most catchy diss tracks of all time. Long story short, Cate was betrayed by someone who was supposed to be one of her closest friends - unforgivably betrayed. She channeled all of her hurt and anger into making this song instead of doing something else that she could regret later on. Not only would she now have a song to listen to for herself when she needed to release these emotions, but she'd now be gaining success off of the situation while her ex friend has to live with herself. Cate sings, "what a waste getting even, I could use you for success" . "MY EX FRIEND" has a hip-hop inspired beat with distorted production and a staccato hook that is just catchy beyond belief. The lyrics will have your jaw on the floor; they are written so well and you can tell that Cate needed to get this out. I wouldn't want to be this ex friend. Like the boys "Like the boys" is a wholesome gay-awakening song about finding a girl that gives you feelings in a way that usually boys do, or have in the past. There's something special about her and you catch yourself falling - and others are noticing it to. The thing is though, it doesn't bother you at all. You're just ready to finally have someone in your life that makes everything feel right. This song is a very upbeat, nostalgic pop Summer jam. It has a popping bass and is filled with bright guitars and synths. It's the kind of music that makes you want to get up and dance around your room, or go driving with your windows down. It's so exciting and celebratory. I'd say it's the most radio-worthy, commercial pop sounding song on this EP so far, in a very good way! Strawberry Moon "Strawberry Moon" holds a deep meaning for Cate and is very personal, but it's also very relatable for all of us out there who deal with our own specific season depression episodes. Cate explained that the first full moon of June is usually the color pink, and is also around the same time her Summer depression kicks in. She never fails to feel down at this same time every year, and this cycle inspired her to write "Strawberry Moon". This track is very gentle in it's nature; it takes more of a soft indie pop approach with some 60's influence. It's very raw but reverb heavy across all instruments while Cate showcases her gorgeous, emotional falsetto vocals. Side Effects Last but not least, we have "Side Effects" which is considered the focus track for the EP. This song is a ballad about the aftermath of dealing with a relationship and breakup that drained the life out of you. The healing process can be just as difficult, and sometimes when you think you're finally okay, the pain starts creeping back in out of nowhere. Sometimes you feel like no matter what you do, you're never going to escape the damage they've done to you. The track starts out with orchestral strings and slowly builds with drums, until we reach a full on rock'n'roll instrumental break down after the second chorus. The emotion continues to run high as we come back down for the outro refrain. This track was the perfect song to end the EP on. Cate Tomlinson doesn't need to prove to anybody that she is incredible. This EP is masterpiece after masterpiece; there are no skips. Her authentic, expert lyricism and honest, relatable storytelling mixed with the addicting, diverse variety of soundscapes and her beautiful voice makes for an artist that any music lover can enjoy. She's making her mark and the best part is she's still only just getting started. I can only see things going up from here for Cate Tomlinson. Make sure to follow her on her socials below to keep up on what's to come! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW CATE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

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