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- Review: "I Concede to Worrying" - Camens
“I Concede to Worrying” is an upbeat pop-rock song, suggesting that people concede to worrying and start living their lives. Though the band states that they’ve never been a political band nor a politically-aligned songwriter, this track touches upon politically charged subjects - specifically how this system we’ve allowed to seep and fester is affecting the people that we know and love. From the first hit of the drums, the track sets the atmosphere. Though there is a bit of melancholy in the lyrics and voice, the track is still relatively upbeat, setting a sense of urgency to sit down, let go, and concede to worrying. Everyone seems to live in perpetual worrying over the bills, working full-time for a salary that barely covers the bills, let alone enough for someone to thrive. There’s no time for people to grow, relax, or invest in themselves or their families, leading to people losing out on the best years of their lives to these struggles. Camens is a band from Stoke-On-Trent, England. From sneaking into festivals and performing pop-up gigs wherever they could, Camens have now re-emerged with a style of razor-sharp idiosyncratic indie and massive promise. Supporting artists like The Futureheads, The Feeling, King No One, and many many more, Camens’ songs have been awarded record of the week by their local BBC Introducing presenter on more than one occasion. As the year draws to a close, Camens gears up for a new release as they’ve begun to sprinkle gumdrops of songs for their fans to get excited about. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW CAMENS:
- Interview: "Night Bus" - Caitlin Lavagna
‘Night Bus’ is so relatable, and I love the melancholy vibe it has! What is the story behind the track? Caitlin: Night Bus is about being a young creative in a big city with life getting in the way of that creativity. Working 40 hours a week, burning money on everything apart from your career, going around in circles and seeing the worst of a city you thought would give you your big break. As a young Welsh Actor Musician, I experienced this when deciding to finally leave London and move home to the Rhondda. It was a difficult time, because after all, everyone says you won't be successful unless you're in the City. That was not my experience at all. I was so tired. When I did have time, I would be burnt out from work or supporting other musician and actor friends in shows and gigs I couldn't really afford to go to. It's as much about imposter syndrome, not feeling seen and feeling empty as it is a celebration of picking yourself up, getting off the night bus and making that leap back home to reset and allow yourself time to find your passion again. How did growing up in Wales influence your music? Caitlin: I have been constantly surrounded by music. My grandfather sings weekly in Pendyrus Male Voice Choir, my Grandmother also sings in a Rock Choir, my mother plays Cello, Piano and loves everything music has to offer. Wales is commonly referred to as the land of song too, so when you add that with my more eccentric musical upbringing (from my Gibraltarian side) with Bob Marley, Sting, Melon Diesel and Breed 77 - I have been spoiled. Having musical icons like Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, Charlotte Church and the Stereophonics paving the Welsh Music scene, it makes sense to me to listen to all genres and to take interest in specifically Welsh artists. Lots of my favorite songs by these artists talk about shared experiences and themes. The beautiful landscape and people I have been brought up by have definitely impacted my creativity and it is therefore reflected in my songwriting. Click HERE to listen to 'Night Bus'! What made you decide on the red theme in the photoshoot for this track? Caitlin: Other than the obvious answer which is, London buses are red, I saw, heard and felt red when I was writing the single. Red is a very patriotic, Welsh colour, it symbolises our dragon, our flag and it also reminds me of a phone box whereby someone would call home. When I was struggling in London, all I wanted to do was go home, to turn the night bus in the direction of Wales etc. Red has always been a colour I have loved so it makes sense that it has ended up symbolising the single. In the music video I hope to incorporate the colour in contrast to the blue and stormy Welsh sea and dark green mountains. I think it works alongside the theme of the song and connects London and Wales visually and dramatically. Who is one artist you would love to collaborate with? You can only pick one! Caitlin: I would give my right arm to work with Florence Welsh (and the machine) mainly because I love her lyrics, sound and songwriting. She is unapologetically unique and although she wears her heart on her sleeve, she manages to maintain mystery in her music. I would also love the opportunity to work with Amy Wadge. I have followed her career for a long time now and it's so exciting to watch her write with so many up and coming musicians and brilliant artists. What city would you love to perform in? Or a specific venue? Caitlin: I would love to perform in Nashville or New Orleans. In terms of venues, Wembley, The Royal Albert Hall and Cardiff Castle are high up on a list of places I would love to perform in. Also, St Michaels Cave in Gibraltar would mean a lot to me and is an incredible music venue. What is some of the best advice you have received? Caitlin: My drumming teacher Mark used to say to me 'put can't in your pocket' whenever self doubt or laziness creeped into my head. He would also say that if I could do something 5 times, it'd stick (excuse the pun). Although simple, it stuck with me and it's a saying I regularly practice when music/acting become difficult or frustrating. Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW CAITLIN:
- Review: "Moments Like This" - Amelia
"Moments Like This" is a country-pop song by new artist Amelia, and she is already killing it. The songwriting in this song is so darling; I love it. This track feels like your partner gently brushing your hair behind your ear. Vocals are another strong plus, in my opinion. Amelia's vocal delivery really shows the singer's vocal talent; her tone is unique, and she has fantastic vocal control, as you can tell. The almost four-minute-long track doesn't feel long at all; this song is very listenable and repeatable. My first thoughts listening to this track were this song gives off the same energy as Fearless era Taylor Swift. This song tells a soft story of love and vulnerability. It's about the special person in your life and how they somehow always know how to comfort you. Their words, their presence, and their touch clear the nasty fog of self-hatred your brain expels. Sometimes you are afraid you might take your lover for granted, so you are letting them know that the moments they help you have an incredibly special and big place in your heart. Amelia is a Liverpool-based pop artist. The U.K. native has released three songs on Spotify, and the talented artist is making a name for herself. Her wish and goal for her music are to make people feel understood in a way they never have before. She has played several live gigs, and the young artist is just as talented live as she is in a studio recording. The singer cites some of her inspirations as Taylor Swift, Maisie Peters, and Paloma Faith. Written By Emma Kimberli FOLLOW AMELIA:
- Review: "Juliet" - Jem
There’s a certain magic to the way that love stories are always more compelling when put to music. Jem’s latest EP Love me or Lose me is a prime example, and the track “Juliet” makes a callback to Shakespeare and puts it on a colorful tune. The surprisingly funky instrumentals put a groovy twist on the tragedy, yet Jem’s lyrics still illustrate the story of an intriguing romance. “Juliet” begins with an intimate piano and a swell of ambiences that previews the sonic colors to come. Jem’s beautiful vocals establish a saddened mood with lyrics that try to uplift someone who’s down in the dumps so they can face reality with their chin up, and the chorus hits with Jem singing to her lover about all the potential their future has together. The song’s funky bass and guitar create a sonic palette combining pop, funk, and a hint of math rock into a unique groove that will have you strumming an air-guitar in no time. A surprising upward harmonic shift at the bridge builds up the energy, making the final chorus an all-out groove complemented by a punchy synth riff. Jem’s latest EP was teased with the first track, “Falling 4U”, being released earlier this year. Following its success, the rest of the EP does not disappoint. Jem’s ability to put her beautiful vocals over songs inspired by hip-hop, jazz, funk, and more give her a unique and addicting sound that keeps you coming back for more. If you’re looking for something groovy and feeling a little romantic, “Juliet” will be the next song stuck in your head. Written By Ari Schweitzer FOLLOW JEM:
- Review: "Tired of Me" - Big Rick Energy
While the end of a relationship brews a slew of heart-wrenching emotions, sometimes the pain that comes right before the breakup can feel much heavier. Big Rick Energy’s latest single “Tired of Me” describes the initial emotional realization that things aren’t going to work out. Lyrics of longing, frustration, and misery laid over a rock-based track portray relatable insight into the artists emotional turmoil. A heavy guitar and drum intro give this single a pop-rock sound that has become rarer in the passing years. Slight rasp in the deep vocals from lead singer Rick Eberle provides an edge to the song through the chorus as the instrumental intensity picks up. In true rocker fashion, the end of the performance is enhanced by a soul-bearing guitar solo notable for ending the song upon. Whether you’re a fan of sultry alternative or upbeat pop, “Tired of Me” fuses aspects of past and present rock anthems, making it well worth the listen. From opening tours with bands like Sugar Ray and Spin Doctors to placing songs on Nickelodeon Network shows such as Drake & Josh and iCarly, it’s safe to say Rick Eberle of Big Rick Energy has vastly variable experience in the music industry. Pulling inspiration from artists Gavin Degraw, Freddie Mercury, Hozier, and The Beatles, there’s certainly a unique flair to the sound brought to life by this artist. The alt-rock group whose name-sake is driven by lead singer/guitarist Rick has just released their first single to stream despite obvious years of training their talent. Band frontrunner Rick Eberle is based in New York where he/his band plays original and cover songs across several venues and festivals. Written By Zewdi Cass FOLLOW ARTIST:
- Review: "Never Be the Same" - Danielle Mattachini
Sometimes it takes losing someone to find yourself. And it is when you love yourself that you will know who you are and who you are meant to be with. In her painstakingly heartfelt song, “Never Be the Same,” Danielle Mattachini beautifully reflects on the moment she realized she decided to love herself, and the heartache that led her there. The soft, melodious guitar overlaid with nostalgic synths, somber piano chords and Danielle’s resonant voice, curates a timeless piece that serves a greater purpose than just for “easy listening.” Her vulnerable lyrics like, “Calling out his name//With both hands on my heart with the pain” and, “Cuz the day that we both parted//Was the moment that I changed” are what strikes the song as more of a message than just a story. “Never Be the Same” is both a comforting hug, and a self-love letter to those who have gone through loss and are in search of finding who they are after it. Using your voice for the greater good of society is what we should do when we are given the chance. There is no doubt that Danielle Mattachini has taken the opportunity to do so through her music. Her passion for writing and sharing her stories shine through her words. Especially in “Never Be the Same,” where she voices her hurt from a past relationship, taking a sob story and spinning it into a glimmering lesson of how that shaped her as a person. With her lyrical vulnerability, wonderstruck encouragement and uplifting instrumentation, Danielle Mattachini’s single, “Never Be the Same” is in fact the light at the end of the dark tunnel. Danielle Mattachini is a Canadian singer/songwriter. Her first single, “What it Feels Like,” was released in 2021 and garnered 2.7k streams in five months on Spotify. Since then, she has released her newest single “Never Be the Same,” demonstrating once again, her innate gift for songwriting. Although she only has two released singles, her passion for writing songs is a sealed promise that there is more to come. Therefore, Danielle Mattachini is a name you won’t want to forget. Written By Amanda Palacios FOLLOW DANIELLE MATTACHINI:
- Review: "Night Bus" - Caitlin Lavagna
The indie-pop track "Night Bus" by Caitlin Lavagna is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates well-produced indie music! Lavagna's rich lower-register voice is maybe my favorite part of this track; her vocal delivery is enchanting. I love the dreary and disconsolate instrumentals and production; this is a song I would genuinely listen to in my free time. It has a similar feeling to when you look out the window in the middle of a snowstorm on a cold winter night. The familiar desolate feeling is portrayed at the beginning of this track. Click here to listen to "Night Bus"! This track immediately sent me back to 2014, in the best way possible. I find myself being reminded of indie artists Birdy and Lucy Dacus. This melancholy song talks about sadness and rejection. No matter how hard you try, you are still disregarded. This track encapsulates the hurt and almost provides comfort in the feeling because you've grown accustomed to it. This track has a driving beat; it definitely does not creep along. Its three-and-a-half-minute length is perfect, and it does exactly what it needs to do in this time frame. Southern Wales native Caitlin Lavagna is an up-and-coming indie artist making a name for herself. She is an aspiring actress along with her music career. Caitlin flirts with many music genres, citing her main ones as being rock, pop, folk, soul, and reggae. She also takes inspiration from a handful of household retro bands, some of which include Sting and Fleetwood Mac. She has released two songs on her Spotify account, with "Night Bus" being her sophomore release. Written By Emma Kimberli FOLLOW CAITLIN LAVAGNA:
- Review: "Old Shoes" - Maggie Cubillos
Maggie Cubillos sings about her internal struggles and the desire to heal from them in her debut single, ‘Old Shoes’. Cubillos candidly describes her inability to release the gloom and cynicism that keeps her up at night; hiding behind false reassurance that hardly withstands time. This honest and uncut song is much needed in today’s generation. Many of us battle fiercely with mental health -- a war that feels seemingly impossible to win. Listeners of all ages and backgrounds can find a sense of comfort and appreciation from this inviting song that tackles such a complex topic with perfection. ‘Old Shoes’ is therapeutic in melody and lyricism. The line: “If growth wasn't painful I'd still wear my old shoes” , relates to how growth can be an uncomfortable experience but is an ultimate necessity in life. Once you accept and actively tackle your hardships, you’ll realise just how much you’ve outgrown your past. Maggie Cubillos’s self awareness stays consistent throughout the entirety of the song. Through the lyrics alone, listeners are made aware of the singer's biggest struggle: properly healing from her problems despite its difficulty. Many of us find ourselves stuck on this stage of self-growth as well. We're often told of ways to resolve our issues, but not all resolutions are applicable to everyone. Maggie Cubillos does an amazing job addressing this and admitting that she doesn't have all the answers, because she's still searching for them herself. Maggie Cubillos is a singer-songwriter who currently attends Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Cubillos's debut single, "Old Shoes" showcases her musical abilities beautifully-- impressing and exciting many for future work. We hope to continuing writing about this young, extraordinary artist in the future. Until then, stay updated by following her social medias below! Written By: Kasey D. FOLLOW MAGGIE:
- Interview: "Baggage" - Ali Diane
I am such a genuine fan of your new single “Baggage”! It is so catchy, and I can’t stop listening to it! I know this song means a lot to you, so would you mind sharing the story behind this new track? Ali Diane: Yes, I would love to!! I decided to talk about the darker stuff in our inner selves, that ends up being known as “Baggage”. Everyone has SOMETHING they battle in their lives and gives them some insecurities. I was inspired to write this song because of my own health issues I had that made me feel different than everyone else, even, not being good enough. I have struggled with depression and I feel like this is such a common struggle for anyone in today’s world. I would really hope that by listening to this song, it helps people to just know that these feelings we have that sometimes take over for a bit, are what many people face and that you are NOT alone. It’s okay, and to be kind and patient with yourself. Take it one day at a time. How did you get your start in music? Was it something you’ve loved since a young age? Ali Diane: I always knew I wanted to be a singer, ever since I would blast Hilary Duff music and sing in my room with a brush in my hand, when I was supposed to be cleaning it. I was always in choir through school, and I decided to do a talent show in junior year in high school.. right then, was when I knew, I can do this. I started working on music with my friend from high school after we graduated. I have been working on songwriting and going hard on it, ever since. If you could collab with any artist in the world, who would you pick and why? Ali Diane: if I could collab with any artist, I would sing with Sia. I was always so inspired by her vocal range and songwriting. I would love to be able to write something tremendous with her. On a side note, congrats on getting your song “Magic” featured on Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings!! I’m a Cast Member at WDW and Disney is a huge part of my life as well, so I’d love to hear more about this amazing opportunity you were given!! Ali Diane: You’re a cast member too?! That’s AMAZING! I worked in Tomorrowland in the attractions. I met my friend Ciara at work and later, she got accepted to be on the Disney Fairy Tale wedding.. and asked me to be a bridesmaid! Since she knows im a singer, I asked if they had anyone singing for her to walk down to and she said no.. but would ask if I could!! They ended up loving my voice and because of royalty difficulties, I decided to write my very OWN song for her to walk down the aisle to.. called “Magic”. I wanted it to be as romantic and emotional as “Can't Help Falling In Love”, so I was inspired to make it as romantic and beautiful as that. When we got to Disneyland and did rehearsal, they made me feel like a STAR. Recording with them was one of the coolest feelings ive ever had. All of the cast were around watching me trying to get me hot water and lemon and whatever else I felt I needed. Haha! It was an insane feeling. The wedding takes took multiple shots and repeated a bunch of takes but they made their wedding look truly beautiful. This was one of my most proudest moments of my life as I am officially able to say, “I wrote a song for Disney and its on Disney plus”. What are some of your biggest goals you hope to achieve in your career? Ali Diane: I am hoping to get the chance to have a few songs get on the top 50 billboard charts! I hope I get the chance to sell out big arenas and be able to watch people in the crowds mouth the lyrics to my songs! That’s when I know, I did what I've done my part, and accomplished my dreams. My goal is to make enough money to support myself making music. What can we expect next from you?! This new single was truly outstanding, I’m so excited to hear what else you release :) Ali Diane: This song was only just the BEGINNING! I have so many new songs to be coming out in the months to come! These are my babies and each of them have different stories to tell, I cannot wait to be able to show you all Interviewed By Sarah Curry FOLLOW ALI DIANE:
- Review: "Wonder" - Kabelle
“Wonder” is a soaring electric-pop energy song, hitting impressive euphoric highs within the vocals. With the energetic mix of instrumentals and undoubtable feeling of positivity, the introduction to Kabelle is as enthusiastic and high-energy as the rest of the band. Inspired by artists like Chvrches or The Naked and Famous, Kabelle’s formulating a style that’s brimming with adventurous potential. The bright and innovative atmosphere alongside the brilliantly shining vocals creates soundscapes that match the emotion of wonderment. Kabelle does a stellar job adding a soundtrack to the emotions that we all experience daily, reminding us of the feeling of wonder that we may have had as a child, and urges us to go out and seek this feeling again. To carve out this niche sound, their nostalgic passages and futuristic vision are accompanied by intense synthesizes and driving drums. Kabelle, formed in early 2020, started off as solo singer/songwriter Katie Jones collaborating with artists worldwide on a number of features. After deciding to transform Kabelle from a solo project into a group, Jones met Adam Gordon. Their chemistry was obvious from the very first track they wrote. Finding strengths in each other’s abilities, Katie’s powerful voice and while Adam’s diverse background of musical influences bridge the gaps between bedroom production and exciting live performance. Finally, the incredible drummer Bertie Atkinson joins to bring drive and energy to their tracks. As Kabelle teases out their singles, they gradually build their hype and experience as they gear up to release their debut EP. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW KABELLE:
- Interview: "Moments Like This" - Amelia
I love how stripped down ‘Moments Like This’ sounds! What was the songwriting process like for this track? Amelia: Thank you! I write all of my songs on my guitar first, so they start out acoustic before the production process. As someone who aims to tell stories with their music, lyrics usually come first for me, and in this case I had lyrics and a melody for the first verse, and then started playing chords along with it, and the song built front there. Moments Like This was written during lockdown, and since then my amazing friend and producer Phil Stewart has transformed it from an acoustic track into what you hear today! I noticed that for the tracks you have released so far, each cover photo has a pink background. Why did you decide to keep them all the same color? Amelia: With these being my first releases, I really wanted people to get a picture of who I am, and that is someone who loves femininity, but also showing we can be strong in our feminine energy. I had a photoshoot over summer and decided these singles should convey an era of bold vibrancy. I love femininity, and so a pink back drop on my 3 cover photos was the perfect colour to get this across. Out of the songs you have released so far, which one is your favorite? You can only pick one! Amelia: I’d have to say Moments Like This! I feel like it’s the most vulnerable and open I’ve allowed myself to be in my songwriting, and getting to share that with people has been great. Who would you say are some of your biggest inspirations? Amelia: Taylor Swift has always been my biggest inspiration from a very young age! I’ve always been hooked on her songwriting style, and her ability to navigate the difficult situations she’s been through with grace. She inspired me to start playing guitar and songwriting. Artists like Maisie Peters, Kelsea Ballerini, and Lana Del Rey all have influenced my music as well. How long have you been playing guitar for? Are there any other instruments you would like to learn? Amelia: I started guitar lessons aged 11 when I joined high school, so it’s been over 10 years now. I play a little bit of piano so I’d really like to master that as my next instrument. Can you share anything about upcoming projects? Amelia: I have lots of new releases planned for the new year and the rest of 2022! I regularly update my social media with release and gig announcements so follow me there to first to know! Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW AMELIA:
- Interview: "Body 2 Body" - Stella Cher Lee
‘Body 2 Body’ is so upbeat and fun, I cannot stop listening! What was the songwriting process like for this song? Stella: Thank you first and foremost! The songwriting process was quite interesting for this one. Dante and I initially started with the chorus. We eventually found ourselves scratching the verses multiple times until we came up with the one it is now. What was it like to work with Dante Juhkel? Stella: It’s been such a challenging, fun and rewarding time. Challenging because he taught me to be more vulnerable with myself. Fun because he’s just a genuine soul to be around. Rewarding because he’s helped me shape up into the artist I deserve to be and has taught me so many new tips and tricks. Out of the tracks you have released so far, which one would you say is your favorite? You can only pick one! Stella: My favorite track is “Player”. It’s not only catchy but portrays a more edgy and confident side. Fun fact: This song was about to be a “throw away” but it turned out to be one of the most favored by others. What inspires you to continue writing music? Stella: The people around me inspire me to keep going essentially. I don’t rely on them as a person but their support and encouragement towards me. My life experiences also build a foundation for songwriting. What do you like to do when you aren’t creating music? Stella: When I’m not creating music, I enjoy working on nail art, makeup looks, taking care of my four pets (dog, cat, two snakes) and vlogging. Could you share some of the best advice you have received? Stella: Recently, I watched “Top Gun: Maverick” featuring Tom Cruise and Miles Teller. In the movie they tell each other, “Don’t think, just do.” As simple as this phrase is, it’s a huge reminder for all of us to make choices with confidence, regardless of failure. Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW STELLA: