Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Lemon Cash
This beautiful track is evocative of navigating regret and awkward moments when talking about past relationships with your current romantic partner. It’s also about missing a relationship once it’s over. The chorus is especially powerful with the rhyme scheme and the storytelling bouncing off the rhythms established by the verses. “I know you’ve got a past but I still wish / I’d been the very first to kiss those lips” are only some of the meaningful lyrics in this laid-back ballad of retroactive heartache. For a gorgeous example of poetry-turned-music, listen to this song anytime you’re feeling a bit emotional about things that have already happened.
This pop country gem will transport you to someone’s front porch in the summertime. The chorus will make you instantly want to drive around with the windows down as you remember perhaps one of your more recent relationships and how it ended. As love is often the subject of music and poetry, this song encourages the listener to embrace their own agency in their relationship, while also not automatically thinking they are the reason why it succeeded or failed. “If you’re planning on leaving / don’t leave it up to me” is at the thematic center of the track, punctuated by a well-articulated guitar solo.
Overnight Sensation by Seth Hancock
I enjoyed this song about trying to succeed in the music industry. In the context of music reviews, perhaps this is a little meta, but I can assure you — this song is really well written. I also think it will appeal to anyone hustling and hoping to make it in the industry. Bonus points for the smooth electric guitar riffs and a subtle lyrical reference to classic rock legends. The guitar solo adds so much to the track in the bridge, with light vocal harmonies around the vocals as well. Listen to this if you’re also trying to get your name up in lights someday.
All That Glitters Isn’t Gold by Ananya
This emotional ballad addresses toxic relationships that lose their shine over time. It’s a powerful anthem about reclaiming your power after a breakup, and the self-awareness that comes with it. I really appreciated the subtle string sections adding sonic textures to the different parts of the song, and the wisdom of each of the lyrics. This song is such a breath of fresh air, and will absolutely bring you a sense of calm after a stormy emotional experience.
This pop-rock song starts off strong with great romantic storytelling moments blended with great instrumentation and well-timed vocal dynamics that really show off his voice. I love the ironic musical rising of the mix when he sings the title in the chorus — it’s this push-and-pull that adds so much to the overall production. The whole thing ends far too soon with an abrupt conclusion after just under 3 minutes - but maybe that’s a metaphor in itself. No matter where this song finds you, you’ll see so much of yourself in the lyrics no matter what your relationship status is.