Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Empty Bottles by Harry Cleverdon
This bright and spunky song addresses more serious topics like self-sabotage during and after a toxic relationship. The melody reminded me a lot of “Follow Me” by Uncle Kracker, but with a deeper meaning hidden under its plucky exterior. It’s guaranteed to get stuck in your head, but is also a great reminder to put your needs first if they’re not being met by the person you’re in a situationship with. All of this is punctuated by a tasteful keyboard melding with some country-esque electric guitar and airy percussion.
Radio Transceiver by Jonathan Evergreen
Beautiful woodland ambience will greet your ears, taking you on a decadent 4-minute romp through nature with this track. The intricate instrumentation is haunting amidst the strong vocals, and I was instantly drawn in after the more gritty, dystopian-style introduction. I really appreciate the imagination behind this song, and its overall message to romance your life and never take any natural beauty for granted. Inspired by the majestic Pacific Northwest region of the country, “Radio Transceiver” would be the perfect addition to your next road trip playlist.
This empowering ode to women of a certain age is equal parts introspective and expressive. In a world of plastic surgery and an aversion to natural aging, this song embraces the beauty of any age, reminding women to love life and embrace every era. With a vocal style cognizant of Birdy or Florence and the Machine, this light and airy anthem will bring you to a new level of zen. I also love the poetic lyrics that are more intricate and insightful than perhaps the more literal pictorial references that are more common in indie music today.
Chris Weaver Band
Softer Side by Chris Weaver Band
This sultry, romantic track talks about the yin and yang of a healthy relationship, and how both people in that relationship can succeed at whatever they set their minds to. I loved the added jazz elements sprinkled throughout, as well as the rock elements like the lead guitar work. In this way, the song literally portrays both soft and grittier sides of the music to illustrate the dualism of the theme as both parts come together seamlessly. It’s an intelligently-engineered track that I know will hit all the right notes with any country or rock fans out there.
Little Problems by Half a Chance
I love the honesty and bravery behind the topic of this song. It’s addressing the reality of dealing with infertility and the awkwardness this could bring to even fun social events. Musically, it’s really bright, with electro-pop styling similar to that of “Expectations” by Katie Pruitt. I always appreciate when songs delve deep into topics that are tough to talk about, both to bring awareness and make others with similar problems feel a lot less alone. Bonus points for the bright mix style that makes it so pleasant to listen to, while I wish nothing but blessings and success for this couple in their life’s journey.