Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This song is about the pressures of being in your teens and twenties not knowing what you want to do with your life. Or maybe you do know what you want to do in life, but aren’t able to get moving on those dreams. Perhaps you’re even in a relationship that you know you need to leave but aren’t ready to yet. For whatever reason you’re feeling stuck, this song is a calm hug for your spirit. I love the minimalist piano blending with the subtle string section in the background. For embracing change and being ready for whatever happens next, this song is just the thing.
You Walked Away by Jana & Jorge
This down-home country song about heartbreak is pretty standard in its overall presentation, but it’s got a lot of heart. For anyone who needs a pick-me-up in the aftermath of a relationship ending, this song will be the glass of ice-cold sweet tea you’ve been looking for. I love the chilled-out percussion that lets the acoustic and pedal steel guitars take center stage. There’s also some beautiful vocals that reminded me a lot of Sara Bareilles (if she grew up in the country). Listen to this if you need a reminder that you’re not the only one to ever have your heart broken, and you won’t feel like this forever even if the healing process feels a bit endless.
This track is a jazzy take on R&B with an added layer of romance and sass. In the thematic realm, it’s a beautiful poetic look at the pleasures and pitfalls of vulnerability. While it can be incredibly scary to open up to someone new (especially after a broken heart), it’s incredibly worthwhile. Listen to this one at the tail-end of your healing process for best results, and continue well into your next relationship to seal in those good vibes for years.
This song is so much fun! Genuinely, I could see this popping up on mainstream radio anytime. With a style similar to alt-rock band The Driver Era, Onk Lou is a band to watch. I love the light guitar riffs that will inspire toe-tapping and head-bobbing no matter where you are while you listen. This bright whimsical vibe is honestly one of the best in the genre I’ve heard in a while, and I can’t wait to see where this band goes next as they write more playfully romantic songs like this one. Play it loud to get your day moving in a new direction if the vibes have been off. Once you listen, you’ll feel 100% better, guaranteed.
Billie-Jo Porter
Billie-Jo Porter: This is Us Here
Rounding out this week’s post is another fun country-pop track that was made for your next read trip. It’s about staying present and enjoying what life brings, no matter where you find yourself on your journey. Bright vocal ad-libs and an ‘80s-inspired guitar add a fun sense of nostalgia despite the song being new to your ears. The vocal style reminded me of Wilson Phillips in the best way possible. Enjoy this one on your next vacation or on a random weekday in the office — it’s guaranteed to brighten your day either way.