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- Review: "Saddest Happy Girl" - Stalking Gia
The pressure of needing to succeed, finding one's purpose, and finding companionship all while needed to keep up outside appearance. An aspect of life that many can relate to, Stalking Gia brings all these emotions to life in her newest song “Saddest Happy Girl”. While being the saddest happy girl may mean that nothing particularly bad as well as nothing particularly amazing has occurred, it allows for there to be a sense of peace and contentment in the middle ground of normalcy. Containing sampling from the famous nursery rhyme “Clementine '' Stalking Gia’s newest song carries with it a strong sense of nostalgia. Beginning with a sampling of “Clementine '' there is a dreamy and nostalgic theme to start the song. This quickly changes tones however with the beat picking up to mimic a pop rock sound in the background music. This helps to push the song along to the chorus where the sampling continues but with rewritten lyrics to continue on these with the lyrical themes of the song. The juxtaposition of these two songs creates a feeling of contrast of the various emotions within the song. The most outstanding aspect of this song however would be the lyrics that reflect the feelings of not feeling how one did as again. In the chorus the lyrics particularly stand out “always smiling on the outside, saddest happy girl alive”. The lyrics present perfectly sum up the emotions that were sung about in the previous parts of the song. Stalking Gia is a New York City based artist that first came to fame as a result of their 2016 single “Second Nature”. Generating 13.2 million dreams, and eventually being sampled in blackbears “Wish You the Best”. This singer songwriter has made quite an impact with over 20 million cumulative streams as well as praise from Billboard, Noisey, Marie Claire, as well as Nylon. After releasing multiple songs as well as touring alongside blackbear Stalking Gia is now continuing on with her music journey and is back to releasing her own music. Written By Gillian Mena FOLLOW STALKING GIA:
- Review: "Obsessed" - PENNY X
If you need a new song to jam-out to in the car, driving to school this year or anywhere else, "Obsessed," by PENNY X should definitely be given a listen. With its catchy electronic accompaniment, it truly makes you want to bob head to the beat while humming the melodic phrases. PENNY X's new song "Obsessed," highlights the jealousy or the 'obsession' that an old partner feels when they see their ex-partner get into another relationship. This song makes the listener form a connection with the singer either relating or sympathizing other the emotions and feelings portrayed within the melodic lyrics. The electronic accompaniment has a wonderful catchy rhythm and pulse not making the song feel dragged out but instead making a wonderful tragic love-story. PENNY X is a singer/songwriter from Berlin, Germany. Drawing her inspiration from artists such as Taylor Swift, Fletcher, Lennon Stella and Tate McRae, she creates alternative pop music with elements of rock and indie. Her songs are therapeutic, deriving from her real-life experiences so if you are interested in her musical journey be sure to follow her socials down below! Written By Troy Sica FOLLOW PENNY X:
- Review: "Afterglow" - King Kismet
“Afterglow” is an out-of-this world projection of what to do when you’re done pursuing your dreams. Of course, there’ll be an afterglow of finally achieving what you’ve been seeking for so long, but once this afterglow fades, oftentimes you’re left wondering what the heck you’re going to do now. King Kismet urges us to take this feeling of afterglow in, but let it strengthen our next goals. To constantly look and seek for the next thing, let our walls down, and reflect on the self and what we want. King Kismet uses interesting synths and other gritty parts of production to create the space-like atmosphere of the song. Blending together contemporary pop and EDM, Kismet navigates the narrative expertly with production that screams both poise and charm. The delivery and range from Australian vocalist Seb Mont is outstanding as he embodies the thought-provoking songwriting from Seany B. King Kismet, or producer and DJ Garett Pierre Rogers, is based in Phoenix and focused on producing and blending a variety of genres such as pop, future bass, dubstep, and house. Kismet’s roots for EDM developed growing up in Michigan, attending underground dubstep and house shows in Lansing and Detroit. After seeing ODESZA live in 2018, Rogers decided to develop King Kismet, who embodies the idea that we are capable of creating our own reality. We are in control of our own destiny. King Kismet has released a smattering of singles and really only has more to offer. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW KING KISMET:
- Review: "Circumstances" - Drew Schueler x Vaance
Many artists have something to say--it's why they make music, to share these emotions and memories with others in hopes that they relate or feel something because of it. Art is meant to make us feel. So, with this new track titled "Circumstances" Drew Schueler and dance-pop artist Vaance bring us the emotions we only see in movies. The trope of two star-crossed lovers takes the stage in this track, two people unable to be together, their hands tied by the circumstances the world gives them and still desperately wanting each other-- knowing if the time and situation were right, they would have been everything. "Circumstances" is a musically dynamic track with vibrant vocals, electro-pop sound, and an upbeat feeling. It's passionate. Even from the first note, you'll feel it's bringing up a memory you never knew you had. With this plotline of a love that could have been, we're instantly pushed into the encompassing melody, feeling as if we're being dragged along with the waves of it, victim to its unpredictable and exciting movements. "I know we could have gotten it right" he sings, and with it, we can see he knew they were perfect for each and how he wished they could have gotten one more chance to make it happen. Drew Schueler is a new pop artist with a determined perspective and a talented mind. He's intricately woven into every aspect of creating music, creating his entire debut EP, titled "New Perspective" from the instruments, lyrics, producing, and mixing. He's currently working out of his studio in Nashville, continuing to grow as a dynamic artist. Also, in this track, we have Vaance, the recording alias for Eli Catania, who covers a range of sounds with his producing and making a name for himself in the dance music genre. He began his official career in 2013 by meshing his experience with live instruments and sound design knowledge and currently works out of Cincinnati. Written by Jane Katryn FOLLOW DREW SCHUELER: FOLLOW VAANCE:
- Review: "Hold Me Like a High" - Maddie Ettrich
Written to reminisce about the late summer, Madddie Ettruch’s new song “Hold Me Like a High '' brings together melodies about love. Specifically an out of blue type of life that makes one take a step back and reminisce about how lucky life can be sometimes. Listen to "Hold Me Like a High" Here Beginning with an upbeat pop background, the song starts with an upbeat sound that is very reminiscent of a disco type song at first. As the lyrics start however this is released by a strong beat and rhythmic lyrics that bring the song together. For the melody the rhythm changes some, with a different rhythm making it seem to be higher tempo. This serves as a build up for a small drop after the chorus that is highly reminiscent of edm music. This repeats again after the next chorus, bringing in an upbeat and happy feeling to the song. This song in its entirety brings together a happy feeling that makes the listeners want to be dance. Maddie's second single “Hold Me Like a High '' is proof of her solidifying her space within the music industry as a new and upcoming artist. Based out of Nashville, TN but being born in Canada, this indie-pop singer and songwriter released her first song in July this year. “Hold Me Like a High'' is the second song in a series that is to be released named ``Before the Party Gets Crashed''. If “Hold Me like a High” is any indicator this series is sure to be a hit. Written By Gillian Mena FOLLOW MADDIE:
- Review: "not my fault" - saturn 17
Like something out of an Indie dreamland, "not my fault" by duo saturn 17 describes the whirlwind mixture of emotions that comes with having feelings for someone who's in a relationship. While the artist states that they won't "wreck love," lyrics like "You whisper close that you know it's not my fault" allude to shared feelings between the two, fueling a never-ending cycle of hope for this person to confess mutual adoration, and disappointment from the realization that things may never change. The unfixed shift in tempo and spirit of the song perfectly compliment the poignant ebb and flow that the lyrics represent. Proceeding a distinct drum line intro, the self-written and produced single "not my fault" begins with vocal focused heart-bearing lyrics focusing on the confusion faced by the artist. Instrumentals slowly creep into the verse, increasing intensity both in sound and lyrically, as the song builds towards its melancholic-yet-hopeful chorus, where the distinct moody vibe of the intro continues in an upbeat fashion. The outro concludes the emotional single with an echo of the title lyrics accompanied by a singular, wistful guitar. Staying true to saturn 17's indie roots, "not my fault" provides honest and relatable storytelling against an emotion-provoking melody. California natives Nika Fazeli and Halsey Bousquet began writing music together in 7th grade before calling themselves 'saturn 17' when both artists were 17 years old. Though their first attempts weren't what they hoped for, the duo continued to work on finding their sound for years before eventually finding their unique artistic style. They released their first EP "could this be love?" in 2019 which included the titular single, as well as singles "jazz club" and now "not my fault" in 2022. Though young in age, saturn 17 pulls inspiration from real-life experiences, wins and losses included, to produce compelling anthems. By working together as a singer/songwriter duo, the artists have been able to create a dreamlike indie/bedroom pop identity that showcases their individual and combined talents. Written By Zewdi Cass FOLLOW saturn 17:
- Review: "Control" - Emma Elizabeth
“Control” is an easy-going and soulful song about feeling in control of your feelings and emotions. Sometimes, you might try to look or feel put-together, but everything just constantly feels like everything is just breaking all around you. It’s hard to put on a mask and feel like you yourself, are in control rather than your emotions are mindlessly driving you. Maybe it’s after a breakup, or you failed a test, or your life just doesn’t feel like it’s going right at all. But sometimes, it’s hard to be under control, and Elizabeth reminds us to slow down and take a rest, take all the time we need for ourselves. Emma Elizabeth’s beautiful and iridescent voice lights up the song, pairing perfectly with the vibe and toned-down quality of the track. Though it’s clear that her voice has experience and volume, she aims for a more wispy feel to fit the overall track atmosphere. While her song is upbeat, perfect for a lazy afternoon, it’s also something for you to contemplate, a little bit more depth than usually bright and happy songs. Emma Elizabeth is a British singer-songwriter who’s determined to give her audience something to take away from the songs she sings. Though maybe her songs will leave you feeling vulnerable, that's ok, because there’s silent reassurance, from her, from her fans, from the people around you, that all is not lost. In despair, there is hope, and Elizabeth reminds us to always keep that in mind, especially when dealing with the lonely or uncertain topics her songs tackle. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW EMMA:
- Review: "Healer" - Lissy Taylor
Life is unexpected; one minute you’re in control and then BOOM, you need help. In these moments, it’s everyone's hope there would be someone to call, someone to count on, someone to be “by your side”. Lissy Taylor wrote the song, “healer” as a tribute to these astounding human beings who always show unconditional love. This ineffable song represents power and vulnerability which is perfectly conveyed through the raw emotion of Taylor's piercing and distinct, rockstar vocals. Taylor surrenders herself and takes us on a magical journey that's sure to make you think about the bigger picture in life. UK singer Lissy Taylor tells a compelling story of the people you can trust in the world. The track starts out with lyrics, “you know I'll do anything, leave it all behind, I’ll drop everything if you needed me anytime” Most songs nowadays tell a story about romantic love, but this song dives into the profound concept of unconditional love; the type of intimacy that only comes from a select few. The track itself starts with a rigid guitar and drum, symbolizing strength through hardships, and crescendos into a celebration of those who help in times of need. Her high vibrato reminds me a lot of bohemian, soul singer Tash Sultana which works perfectly with the instrumental. Her melodic style and feracious energy make this track one to remember. Originally from the UK, Lissy Taylor moved to the United States to hone her songwriting skills. She moved back to the UK in 2017 where she studied in Manchester. 2020 was an eventful year for Taylor as she graduated from the British and Irish Modern Music Institute with a degree in Songwriting in released her debut EP, “Wildflowers”. Taylor completed her first UK headline tour soon after along with the release of her second EP, “Undercurrent” in 2021. “Healer” is one of four singles planned to release this year. Written By: Mia Mangione FOLLOW LISSY TAYLOR:
- Review: "Serotonin" - Fior
You may know that they aren't for you or even good for you at all. That doesn't always mean your body feels the same way about that one person who makes you feel alive. That tingling sensation that moves up your spine and makes you swallow as your pupils dilate tends not to fall subject to the rules of logic and often throws a wrench in the gears of social expectations. "Serotonin", the fresh new single from Fior , details the complex hold that chemicals have on us and our emotions at the most fundamental levels of our core. Have a listen to "Serotonin" here! We are greeted at the track's opening with the infectious melody that underpins the vibrant structure before the combination of understated percussion, muted bass, and easy-going guitar enters to provide a welcome depth. "Serotonin" steadily crescendos alongside lush, layered vocals that detail the intimate intricacies of separating logic from chemicals when it comes to how that person makes you feel. The volatility of modern love is reflected in the song's emotional peaks and troughs that range from instilling, energetic choruses to melancholic yet reassuring, low hums in the verses. Sourcing inspiration indiscriminately from a range of artists (from Stevie Nicks to Michael Jackson ), multi-talented Fior produces enchanting pop melodies rife with influence from R&B, rock, and soul music. With a sound that has been described as modern and atmospheric, Fior employs trap adjacent production alongside more classic elements seamlessly, providing a textured depth to her soundscapes. Based in Los Angeles, Zoe Fioravanti started her musical journey in the depths of the pandemic, wasting no time making waves in the industry with tracks produced by the likes of Scott Storch. Fioravanti extends her talents to the spheres of modeling and has graced covers of Playboy Australia and Marie Claire. Follow her journey using the links below and keep an eye out for her upcoming self-titled album. Written By George McSherry FOLLOW FIOR:
- Review: "Final Show" - Paul Vinson
Think about a time in your life where you felt like the world was open just for you. That something huge was going to happen, and that it was going to be epic. Sometimes these feelings come once in a lifetime, so acting on them needs to happen as sudden as you get them. It's this feeling that drives the phenomenal new track from indie artist Paul Vinson. The track is vivid in its lyrics, depicting an epic love story for the ages. The track features a unique indie, almost country like groove. The track starts with a pick slide, but it’s autotuned and cuts off kind of like turning off a VHS tape. The instrumentation features guitars, and drums at the forefront. The guitars have almost a country twang, and they help push Vinson's vocals to the front. Vinson's voice has a nice level of grit, that you can even hear when he goes into his falsetto. There is even a guitar solo around the three minute mark of the track, creating an all around epic atmosphere. All of the sonics together help make the listener get lost in the song, which happened to me as I listened to the track. The lyrics are vivid, and tell a love story of greater proportions. They seem to allude to the idea that the person Vinson is in love with is in another relationship, "We kissed in front of strangers, on the cheek, but never too hard." But the two have no care for what others say, they know they're made for better things, "So let's give 'em a show, give em a run for their money // Let's give them a night that they won't forget." In which the final line brings to life a dramatic ending to their 'final show,' "Carry me home, tonight." Paul Vinson is an indie artist based in Nashville, Tennessee. "Final Show," is the third single from Vinson's upcoming debut album slated for fall release entitled Tunnel Vision. It is preceded by two other phenomenal singles, "Keep Up" and "Drama Queen." Vinson released his debut EP in 2021 entitled "God Get Me Out of Here." Vinson's music creates a trance inducing atmosphere unlike anything you've heard. Vinson is sure set for stardom, and deserves to be in your immediate rotation. Written By Kyle Stiver FOLLOW PAUL VINSON:
- Review: "23" - More In Luv
More in Luv is still very early in their career, but they seem to have already perfectly discovered their niche. The band from Liverpool has hit on a sound that feels both recent and retro, reminiscent of the pop rock scene of the late 2000s and early 2010s. Their music feels familiar, but refreshing, teeming with nostalgic melodies and catchy lyrics. The group’s latest release “23” epitomizes their sound. The mid-level tempo rides the line between upbeat and laid-back, perfectly suiting the approachable, danceable energy of the track. The chugging bass and guitar have an infectious liveliness that can get anybody dancing. The melody is an earworm, paired with screamable lyrics that almost force you to sing along. Click here to listen to 23! “23” begins with a captivating guitar riff, immediately grabbing focus before unfolding into the first verse. The song is heavily influenced by rock, with a standard instrumentation including drums, bass, and guitar, and the addition of a floating synth pattern that rounds out the high frequencies of the lineup. When the song crashes into the chorus, with a long buildup that drags the listener along, there is a palpable release of tension. The chorus is a wistful tribute to an unrequited love, someone you always thought could end up with. The song’s emotional theme contrasts against its upbeat feel, almost celebratorily sending us into a new stage of our lives. Letting go of someone we can’t have, and moving on for the better. More in Luv began releasing music during the UKs covid lockdowns, and in the past two years have been consistently building their resume, making up for time lost during the pandemic. In addition to the release of five singles and their debut EP “Local Celebrities,” the quartet have spent the past two yeas playing shows and festivals across England. Written By Liam Dun FOLLOW MORE IN LUV:
- Interview: "Sparks" - Saige
Q: ‘Sparks’ is so upbeat and fun! What inspired you to write the song? Saige: I’d been listening to Olivia Rodrigo’s album Sour, which covers her feelings on teenage heartbreak. It kind of dragged me back to how that felt and how high emotions were - for me it really felt like my world was ending. Inspired, I wrote Sparks about my own experience. He had essentially said I had rose-tinted glasses on about love, and I said to him I’d rather love love than become cynical. Sparks depicts those final conversations and moments and how I try to keep loving love. Q: What does the songwriting process look like for you? Saige: It's a bit strange, I will admit! I write the lyrics first, and build the music around the story. I know typically it's the other way around. I could go weeks without writing, and then I'll randomly get a burst of lyric ideas - I wrote this song on my phone, on a walk home from work, and recorded a rough demo as soon as I got in the door. I'll put a basic melody together, and send it to the band and we'll flesh it out from there, and add production elements once we've recorded. I like to keep live instrumentation where I can, crossed with synth soundscapes. Q: How has living in Ireland influenced your music? Saige: I'm from the countryside (Co. Wexford), so I probably had a bit more time with my thoughts and to get creative to keep myself entertained. I spent a lot of time listening to 80s synthpop/rock, and began writing from a young age, so I'd say this was a factor. I studied in BIMM Dublin and this definitely helped me hone my craft. Q: Who would you say has inspired you the most? Saige: Any independent artist here in Ireland trying to break into the industry. It's tough, and seeing them succeed really does keep me going. Seeing others continuing to push themselves and believe in their music has been an inspiration for me to do the same. Q: Which song that you have written is your favorite? You can only pick one! Saige: Probably Soothe Me. It's the first song I released, so it will always have a soft spot. It was influenced by Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill", and it was nice to see it get a 2nd lease of life recently when people realized the link. Q: What should we expect next from you in terms of your music career? Saige: More music, more shows. I have a headline show in The Workman's Cellar in Dublin on November 25th, tickets available now on Ticketmaster. I'll have more music out soon, and I've an EP coming early next year. It's exciting - I've been busy! Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW SAIGE:












