Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This song has just the right mix of cozy ambience and grit to keep things interesting. Very similar to a Holly Humberstone or Kacey Musgraves vibe, this song will get you through dealing with someone you want to date who keeps changing their tune. In a perfect world, life and love would be straightforward, but neither of those things are. So instead, cuddle up with the delicious verses pushing you into the more amped-up choruses where the speaker wonders if she should have changed instead of being herself.
Heartbeat Melody by Naomi Jane
This coming-of-age track is sugary-sweet and will take you back to your teen years. I loved the build up from the pre-chorus into the choruses and the message of making the most of the time you have. There’s also the obvious romantic element, with the vocalist dedicating this to an unnamed crush that she’s hoping to be with as long as she can. Bonus points for the clever title and the way it’s a metaphor for the feeling of falling for someone who quickly becomes the center of your world — for better or worse.
The Great Big Hug
One Last Look Around by Blacktop Rodeo
This contemporary country song hits all the right notes, both in the genre and just in music in general. I also loved the message of gratitude and just being grateful for what you have before it’s all gone. The story involves moving on to a new chapter, whether that’s moving to a new place, or moving on from a relationship. All of the emotions are punctuated by a very moody and groovy guitar solo that adds such a nice dynamic to the song overall.
Seasons Changin’ by The Great Big Hug
I really liked the vibe of this fun, unique rock tune. The message is about the speaker’s lost love interest and mustering up all the girl power she can to move forward with her life. From a music perspective, I appreciate the 12-bar blues structure being utilized in a more contemporary, almost mainstream styled rock ‘n’ roll context - which isn’t something you typically hear a lot of. The icing on the just desserts was the lead guitar work in between the sections of the song, leading up to the big guitar solo after the slow-down for the bridge. Any blues or rock fanatics will vibe with this song, guaranteed.
Jack & Jack
Thought I was Dead (Home Live Sessions) by Jack & Jack
This beautifully heartache-laden song features so much understanding for the feeling of sadness and loneliness that can sometimes surface. The string section in the background alongside the vocal harmonies really struck a chord with me. I also appreciated the rock-style vocal performance that was similar to something Jaden Hossler or MGK might sing (especially the rap portion). While I don’t personally resonate with more angsty songs that are centered around sadness most days, I think these are sometimes important to share so that other listeners who do relate won’t feel alone and can push past that feeling of being stuck.