Atwood Magazine’s Weekly Roundup: January 28, 2025

Atwood Magazine's Weekly Roundup | January 28, 2025
Atwood Magazine's Weekly Roundup | January 28, 2025
Every Friday, Atwood Magazine’s staff share what they’ve been listening to that week – a song, an album, an artist – whatever’s been having an impact on them, in the moment.
This week’s weekly roundup features music by FKA twigs, flipturn, Tate McRae, Magdalena Bay, Hudson Thames, Laura Reznek, Humble the Great & Amie Blu, TAVE & Kenyon Dixon, The fin., June6xteen, meija & Hand Habits, Killen., Jazzie Young, Charlie Turner, Felicity, Ripsime, Muscle Memory, THEKOIWAY, messier, Joey LaBeija, We Are All Fossils, Kamila Kay, Gregory Darling & Julian Lennon, BLVDS, and Cory Cullinan!
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Atwood Magazine's Weekly Roundup




:: EUSEXUA – FKA twigs ::

Julia Dzurillay, New Jersey

It isn’t even February and FKA Twigs fans are saying we already have the Album of the Year. This artist is known for her avant garde, techno-leaning originals. Eusexua (a word created to describe that feeling of transcendence, complete euphoria, and clarity,) delves into the strangest beats to make something sonically cohesive, yet totally separate from her discography.

A personal favorite is the second track, titled “Girl Feels Good.” It’s perfect for a night out in a sweaty club. Strobe lights and sticky floors. Twigs sings, “I fear the man who finds himself lost / In tales of war, delusions of more / Beautiful boys, I wish you knew how precious you are / Your mother’s, sister’s, lover’s heart is where there’s healing.”



:: Burnout Days – Flipturn ::

Christine Buckley, Connecticut

Florida indie-rock darlings Flipturn (stylized “flipturn”) catapulted to fame with their 2022 debut album Shadowglow, bolstered by a live show that entranced audiences at major U.S. festivals like Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and Governor’s Ball. But the constant touring and pressures on a young band from an industry that isn’t always kind to its talent took a toll on members Dillon Basse (vocals, guitar), Tristan Duncan (lead guitar), Madeline Jarman (backing vocals, bass), Mitch Fountain (synth, guitar), and Devon VonBalson (drums).

Thus was born Burnout Days, the group’s sophomore album, which features the group’s established crystalline guitar motifs, catchy hooks and frank, wry lyrics combining with New Wave elements and intricate percussion to form an energetic soundscape. The album is grittier and more vulnerable than their debut, but somehow also more positive, with single “Sunlight” touching on singer and lyricist Dillon Basse’s support of his mother through her sobriety journey.

The group recently performed lead single “Rodeo Clown” on Jimmy Kimmel, marking their late-night television debut. Next month they embark on their biggest tour yet, a three-month U.S. trip that has them leveling up into their biggest rooms ever. Burnout Days proves that even under pressure, flipturn continues to grow as one of indie rock’s most innovative acts.



:: “Sports car” – Tate McRae ::

Bárbara Martínez Campuzano, Mexico

Exciting and tempting, Tate McRae’s new song “Sports car” is full of adrenaline, an instant bop. Produced by Ryan Tedder and Grant, this song is the highly anticipated return of the Canadian singer, and will be part of her third album, So Close to What, set to be released on February 21. The single makes reference to the exhilaration of love through the metaphor of driving a sports car. This is perhaps one of the most significant releases of this past week, given the song’s dynamicity, its production and making that even involved “Issues” singer Julia Michaels.

Along with the release of “Sports car” came its music video directed by Bardia Zeinali, who has previously worked with Sabrina Carpenter, Troye Sivan, among others. A deeper view into McRae’s world, the video has received praise for its visuals and fashion display. Surely, the new song and video are the best motor for the “Greedy” singer’s next album.



:: “Cry for Me” – Magdalena Bay ::

Marc Maleri, Connecticut

Every couple months since the release of Magdalena Bay’s sophomore album, Imaginal Disk, I’ll hyperfixate on a track for weeks on end. Each piece from the album is incredibly layered and nuanced both in its lyrics and production, which makes a listen to any one of the songs so enjoyable since it feels like I’m discovering something new even months after my initial listen. “Cry for Me” is no different.

Lead vocalist Mica Tenenbaum sings from the perspective of a villain on “Cry for Me,” pleading for the sympathies and admiration of the masses at what feels like this character’s grand exit from Imaginal Disk’s overarching narrative. Combining strings, synth, and a whole other mix of elements that are both fantastical and futuristic, Tenenbaum and her music mastermind counterpart, Matthew Lewin, paint an epic, tragically beautiful picture with the track. “Share a little kiss, and that’s forever / Think of love when you remember me / I’m standing right over here.”



:: Bambino – Hudson Thames ::

Chloe Robinson, California

Masterful songwriter, performer, and actor Hudson Thames has a soulful and soothing air that is utterly captivating. His new album Bambino draws listeners in with its emotive pop offerings and touching, tender ballads. The 8-track collection begins with “Cold Summer.” The contrast of the title is highly intriguing. He passionately sings, “Keeping my heart on ice, turning off all these lights, don’t it feel cold outside for the summertime.” The song is the ultimate anthem of heartbreak. “Wrong” is another standout. The stunning ballad showcases piercing piano and a poignant vocal harmony in the chorus that hits you deep. Concluding with “Man of the World,” it is another pretty piano ballad. Many can relate to his sentiment of finding yourself amidst the uncertainty.

Thames, set to appear as Peter Parker in the Marvel series Your Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman on Disney+, grew up in a large family. Bambino is an Italian term of endearment that means “baby” or “little one.” His dad remarried when he was twelve to a big Sicilian clan. At family functions they would lovingly call Thames bambino and he found that very sweet. He gave the album the title bambino as the body of work is his baby.



:: “Endeavours” – Laura Reznek ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York

Heartache reigns supreme on Laura Reznek’s “Endeavours”… or at least, it does on paper. In practice, the intimate indie folk song – a sober post-mortem on a lost love – is sentimental, heartwarming, and surprisingly sweet; a gentle and graceful musical manifestation of the ‘don’t look back in anger’ mantra. Reznek – a Canadian born, UK-based singer/songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist known for her poetic and vulnerable lyricism – holds nothing back in her reflections on past emotions and prior events, tenderly piecing together the puzzle of an ill-fated relationship. Approaching this history through an empathic lens, she allows meaningful moments of love and connection to exist in her timeline in spite of what happened – appreciating and understanding these events for what they were right then and there, rather than just another rung in a broken ladder.

All the bravado aside
I wish I was someone you liked
A peaceful and easy ride
I endeavored to give you that life
endeavored to give you that life
endeavored to give you that life
The handwritten words I’d collect
In the box, on the floor, by the bed
Answers I’d attempt to correct
An endeavor to put you to rest
endeavor to put you to rest
endeavor to put you to rest

“‘Endeavours’ was an endeavour to process the un-linear-ness of grief,” Laura Reznek tells Atwood Magazine. “It is an acceptance of a new reality and an ability to look back on past events with kindness, but without rose-tinted glasses – attempting to stay grounded, knowing that whilst things weren’t always perfect, finding levity is still possible.”

Said let’s go backwards
Pinpoint the problems
Interests differ
Silence at dinner
Hysterics not welcome
It all sounds pretty normal
Let’s put them in order
Those cryptic codes and the ‘don’t tell the others’
They were fruitless endeavors.
Know I could have had it worse
Had a malleable mind to convert
I endeavored to not let it hurt
I wish I was someone you weren’t
Wish I was someone you weren’t
Wish I was someone you weren’t

Released November 29th, 2024 via Mary Yelling, “Endeavours” is a soul-stirring ray of poignant, golden light. The compelling lead single off Reznek’s forthcoming 2025 studio album (details TBA) offers a side of humanity we rarely see post-breakup; it teaches a lesson we can and should apply in our lives, lest we surrender to grief and let it consume us whole. I, for one, prefer this route: Look at things for what they were, because even if they weren’t always perfect, they were good for a time – and that’s okay.

Said let’s go backwards
Pinpoint the problems
Interests differ
Silence at dinner
Hysterics not welcome
It all sounds pretty normal
Let’s put them in order
Those cryptic codes
and the ‘don’t tell the others’
They were fruitless endeavors.
I’d keep a grudge right to the end,
you’d sing that song to make amends
I’d stave off the breaking of bread
Devour the absence instead
Devour the absence instead
Devour the absence instead
Said let’s go backwards
Pinpoint the problems
Interests differ
Silence at dinner



:: “september lightning” – Humble the Great, Amie Blue ::

Miranda Urbanczyk, Michigan

Emerging R&B artists Amie Blue and Humble the Great come together in one expressive track. Amie Blue appears as the only person to collaborate with Humble the Great on his new album, i don’t mind floating. The song speaks for itself, immersing the audience of both artists. “september lightning” enhances the listening experience through cathartic beats. The unique sound of the two musicians blend together flawlessly, creating such an alluring record.



:: “Laid Back/Old Skool Chevy” – TAVE ft. Kenyon Dixon ::

Grace Holtzclaw, Los Angeles, CA

TAVE takes us for a breezy coast down a clear-skied highway on his latest single “Laid Back/Old Skool Chevy.” Featuring vocals from 2025 GRAMMY nominee Kenyon Dixon, TAVE deepens his footprint as a defining artist in the current stratosphere of R&B. “Laid Back/Old Skool Chevy” is about easing into a new romance that feels as effortless as a cruise down an open road.

Vibrant synths, plunging bass lines, and warm, inviting vocals from Dixon sets the tempo for a steady yet sultry musing on love. Dixon sings, “Girl why don’t you just come a lil close to me / Come and see if it’s giving what it’s supposed to be” “Laid Back/Old Skool Chevy” is about taking the pressure off of getting to know someone and embracing the beauty of simplicity.

“Laid Back/Old Skool Chevy” is paired with a music video that captures TAVE and Dixon on a sun-drenched ride through a neighborhood with the top down. The single is an instant hit of relaxation that encourages listeners everywhere to let go of their worries. On top of his career as an artist, TAVE is a GRAMMY nominated producer and songwriter who has previously worked with 6LACK, SiR, and Alex Isley. “Laid Back/Old Skool Chevy” is TAVE’s latest release set to take you along for the ride.



:: “Echoes” – The fin. ::

Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland

Best known for their ethereal soundscapes, The fin.’s latest single “Echoes” has an atmospheric feel with an engrossing arrangement. Merging elements of psychedelic and indie pop, with tasteful additions of jazz, funk, and soul added into the mix, this blend of sounds is truly exceptional. From the hazy synth texture to the shimmering indie sonics, “Echoes” provides a contemplative haven, allowing listeners to re-establish a connection with their memories and identity.



:: “Me Myself & I” – June6xteen ::

Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland

Me Myself & I” is a sonic masterpiece that radiates confidence and empowerment, blending alternative pop with liquid drum and bass to create an electrifying and modern sound by the talented singer-songwriter June6xteen. From the very first beat, the track bursts with energy, carrying listeners on a wave of lush synths and infectious rhythms. Her vocals, effortlessly commanding yet emotionally raw, drive home the song’s empowering message of self-reliance and resilience. The lyrics, filled with defiance and self-assurance, resonate deeply, making this an anthem for anyone ready to rise above criticism and embrace their individuality.

What truly makes this song stand out is its balance of emotional depth and high-energy production. While the beat makes you want to dance, the introspective and inspiring lyrics connect on a personal level, offering a perfect blend of heart and hype. June6xteen’s ability to channel her growth and authenticity into her music is undeniable, and “Me Myself & I” feels like a bold step forward in her artistic journey. It’s not just an amazing song – it’s a powerful declaration that leaves an indelible mark on modern pop music.



:: “SEVEN” – meija ft. Hand Habits ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York

Turns out meija’s Jamie Sierota and Hand Habits’ Meg Duffy are a match made in heaven; at least, that’s one of my main takeaways from “SEVEN,” the duet both singer/songwriters released last spring. A dreamy and mystic song dwelling in the mysterious depths of life, humanity, and our understanding of ourselves, “SEVEN” is poetic, impassioned, and emotionally charged: The kind of track that inspires us to look inside and reflect on our own values, haves vs. wants, and so on.

Seven days left until the flood gates
Seven needles try to keep your neck straight
Have you been drinking from that mythological mug?
The one that’s shaped like a dove
That you bought from that store on the corner
And now I’m talking to myself again
I mean it’s really quite remarkable
That you can trick your mind and play pretend
I mean that’s only hypothetical
I put the pressure on
I keep running on
Towards the things I wanted
But now I know I don’t need them

“It’s about looking at the things you grew up with – these big stories that you’re told – and deciding what you want to keep,” meija tells Atwood Magazine. “It’s a song about letting go. Seven is an important number for a lot of faiths and cultures. This is one of the most imagery-heavy songs I’ve written.”

“Meija is a very creative and uniquely spirited musician, and I was really excited to be asked to join him on the song ‘Seven,’ Hand Habits adds. “Had such a blast finding my place in his wide sonic world.”

The lead single off meija’s sophomore album There’s Always Something (released October 11th, 2024 via Nettwerk), “SEVEN” is as enchanting as it is utterly disarming – and a vivid, visceral display of meija’s songwriting talents at work. Whether you’re in your own space of spiritual reconfiguration, or just in need of a new personal anthem, I highly recommend giving this song the proverbial spin.

Try it make it better with a cupcake
But life is so much better without constraints
It isn’t criminal
It only softens the blow
Whatever opens the door
Whatever closes it won’t stop the bleeding
And now I’m talking to myself again
No it isn’t that original
And if it’s ends up being heaven sent
I’m gonna count my blessings
I put the pressure on
I keep running on
Towards the things I wanted
But now I know I don’t need them



:: “ONANON” – Killen. ::

Josh Weiner, Washington DC

When I first started writing for Atwood in spring 2015, I wouldn’t have predicted that Swedish Electronica would wind up being the genres I would cover most regularly during my time there. Flash forward almost a decade, though, and that has indeed been what has transpired, given that acts like Kasbo, NOEL and Love Truls have been sent my way quite regularly, and I have come to enjoy them with the same high frequency.

It’s nice to see that trend continue with Killen, a Stockholm-based producer who made great career strides in 2024, including performing at a number of local festivals and releasing his first EP, Highlight. He’s wasted no time keeping the momentum going in the new year, having already released his first new track of 2025, “ONANON.” This electronic-dance tune makes for some chill listening, given its Peter Pan-style free-spiritedness about not wanting to grow old, and its overall lighthearted sonic nature (given that I’m typing this on a Friday afternoon after another long week of work at school, the soothing effects this song produces are especially appreciated!) Best of luck to Hannes Torsell as he launches his new identity as Killen the EDM Producer from Sweden.



:: “Waiting on You!” – Jazzie Young ::

Rachel Leong, France

Jazzie Young drops “Waiting On You!” a vulnerable reflection upon what unrequited longing feels like. Indie-pop melodies and layered vocals mark the new track, propelling Jazzie Young forth as a promising up and comer in the scene.

Marked by confessional songwriting and airy world-building, Young allows her lyricism to flourish within her indie rock-leaning production. Leaning inward while pouring outward, shimmering melodies ebb and flow to the inconsistencies of emotion. As the track swells into its cathartic crescendo, listeners are left with a sense of release, as if sharing in Jazzie Young’s emotional journey.



:: “Mrs Other” – Charlie Turner ::

Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland

Emerging musician and artist Charlie Turner’s latest single “Mrs Other” blends genres of jazz, rock, and punk influences into one to produce an exceptional offering. His characteristic approach to music makes each song display his signature sound and voice. The raw reflection of growing up, and older, life after university, and entering the big wide world is delicately explored in the song. The music’s complexity and profound passionate depth not only in the instrumentation but in the lyrics make him an artist to watch this year.



:: “Miracle Elixir” – Felicity ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York

Felicity made a huge statement with the release of her debut EP, You Take Me to Dinner But You’ll Never Feed My Soul, this past summer – and she didn’t stop there: The Australia-born, Nashville-based indie pop artist spent the end of last year dazzling audiences with one more song that highlights her indisputable talents as a dynamic, expressive singer and songwriter with an ear for catchy pop melodies and equally memorable lyrics. Released November 8th via East Music Row Records, “Miracle Elixir” is an urgent, fervent rush of dramatic energy and raw emotions. Fast-strummed guitars and stream-of-conscious lyrics find Felicity facing a ‘morning after’-like situation; moments from the past night flicker in and out as she wrestles on one hand with the ramifications of her actions, and on the other with her desire to move forward and get on with the day.

3 streets down from the Bowery
Don’t know where I’m supposed to be
But I know I’m gonna go all night
I’ve got something between my teeth
Must’ve been what’s on my keys
This energy is gonna go all night
And I hope my mum didn’t catch that
Usually I’m not half this bad
That’s a lie and maybe I’m just sad
So let’s go skiing, let’s go mad

“We (Austin Luther, Johnny Gates, Felicity) wrote this one on a Tuesday,” the artist tells Atwood Magazine. “Johnny and I had quite the weekend before, and after testing every bar in Nashville I was driving to the studio while hitting every red light in the process. With a bit of a headache as I spilled my coffee on myself in the car, I just kept thinking, ‘I need a miracle elixir’ … As I thought this, I also had an inkling that was the song we’d be writing that day.”

“We got to the studio and Austin was blasting a bunch of club music we loved, and we gushed over it in fine detail for some time. Then, almost as a joke, we started a song pretending it was for a record like that. It wasn’t until the next day when we got back in the studio and made the production more aligned with me (more acoustic forward and less dancey) that we realized we loved it!”

She needs a miracle elixir
Only thing that’s gonna fix her
Filling up the void with liquor
And she’s only getting sicker
She needs a miracle elixir
(Think of it like it’s a mixer,
stir it in your drink,
miracle elixir)
Stranger’s hands tracing her body
Telling herself “he could love me”
While so lonely at the party
Is this gonna be the kicker?
She needs a miracle elixir
(Think of it like it’s a mixer,
stir it in your drink,
miracle elixir)

Cinematic and soaring, “Miracle Elixir” is an undeniable banger – a song that begs us to have a good time. It’s a stunning show of force from Felicity, and one that I can’t wait to play on repeat this all spring and summer long.

Why am I so embarrassing?
That’s the last time I’m drinking
Well at least until the weekend
What on earth did I say to him?
And say to her, and say to them
Oh my god someone sedate me
And I hope my friends don’t get fed up
Usually we always make up
But I’ve been coasting on their love
And that’s unfair, it’s frankly fucked
She needs a miracle elixir
Only thing that’s gonna fix her
Filling up the void with liquor
And she’s only getting sicker
She needs a miracle elixir
(Think of it like it’s a mixer,
stir it in your drink,
miracle elixir)



:: “Paradise” – Ripsime ::

Rachel Leong, France

British-Armenian songwriter, producer and artist Ripsime closed out 2024 with her mesmerising new single “Paradise.” The track is a bold, experimental pop track signalling a profound evolution in her sound. Honing her craft as both a songwriter and producer, “Paradise” blends nostalgic ’80s-inspired synthetic textures with modern alt-pop sensibilities.

“Paradise” marks a striking shift in Ripsime’s musical direction, embracing a more electronic and punk-inspired sound, while keeping her signature emotionally charged and introspective lyrics. The song is a heartfelt tribute to those we’ve lost too soon, exploring the theme of eternal connection, and the bittersweet realisation that our magical connection with loved ones transcends the physical realm.



:: “Get Lost” – Muscle Memory ::

Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland

New York indie pop duo Muscle Memory craft a breezy escape with their latest single, “Get Lost.” Layering summer-kissed harmonies and a vibrant yet subtle groove, the track effortlessly blends the charm of dance pop with an eclectic, intimate touch. By giving the instrumentation space to shine, the duo creates an atmosphere that’s both colorful and calming. When the final third arrives, with its cascading layers and anthemic hook, “Get Lost” transforms into a full-blown indie-pop embrace – nostalgic, theatrical, and undeniably catchy. Perfect for a moment of reflection or a carefree summer drive, this one’s a charmer.



:: “The Game of Life” – THEKOIWAY ::

Joe Beer, Surrey, UK

Chilean-born, Brooklyn-based artist, THEKOIWAY recently unveiled their new single “The Game of Life” aka, “El Juego de la Vida.” Alongside the soul-soaked, funk-fueled single, was a captivating, short-story style music video featuring renowned actor Héctor Noguera. Both the single and video offer a thought-provoking narrative, with THEKOIWAY exploring LGBTQ+ themes and emphasizing the importance of diversity across all cultures.

Frontman Victor Vildósola shares, “We are thrilled to present the music video for our new single, as it delves into profound questions about diversity and the actions we take as a society in response. For us, it is an honor to feature the legendary actor Héctor Noguera, who brings immense talent and commitment to this project. This is more than a music video – it’s a cry for diversity, a challenge to norms, and a reminder that sometimes we must lift the veil of the ordinary to confront the most uncomfortable truths.”

“The Game of Life” comes to life with velvet vocals which glide over bold brass instrumentation, funky guitars and a dance-worthy rhythm that will get your entire body moving. Through their feel-good music, storytelling lyrics and mesmerizing visuals, THEKOIWAY are certain to make a big impact as they bring awareness to important social issues, inspire change and spread messages of inclusivity and positivity.



:: “Baskervilles” – messier ::

Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland

Finnish indie rock duo messier have unveiled their latest single “Baskervilles,” offering a mesmerizing glimpse into their forthcoming 2025 album Stream of Guilty Consciousness. Renowned for their emotionally charged soundscapes and innovative approach to music, messier’s new track delves deep into the human psyche, focusing on the tendency to catastrophize. The song reflects the band’s signature style while venturing into new sonic territories, showcasing their growth and continuous push to redefine the boundaries of indie rock.

“Baskervilles” strikes a poignant balance between urgency and desolation, embodying the weight of its central theme. Lauri Huumonen’s vivid, introspective lyrics are interwoven with Antti Orajärvi’s dynamic instrumentation, creating a sound both brooding and expansive. The track’s haunting atmosphere and emotionally charged delivery hint at the ambitious scope of the upcoming album. With “Baskervilles,” Messier affirm their place as a band unafraid to confront deep, uncomfortable truths, leaving listeners eager to explore the intricate journey promised by Stream of Guilty Consciousness.



:: “less than three” – Joey LaBeija ::

Rachel Leong, France

Joey LaBeija recently returned with “less than three,” a sweeping return to the alternative R&B scene. The new single dominates with boundary-pushing production textures and rich vocal layers, a mesmerising blend of experimental soundscapes and hypnotic, downtempo beats.

LaBeija’s definitive vocal effects and dynamic production pull you into an atmosphere of brooding intensity, while dark swoops of instrumentation create a feeling of eerie yet alluring beauty. The track’s mysterious undertones mirror the emotion of its central theme: appreciating the beauty found in letting go.

A monumental return for Joey, “less than three” is a unique and immersive listening experience that certainly sets the stage for what’s to come next. A track thriving in subtleties and contradictions, ‘less than three’ showcases LaBeija’s evolution as both an artist and producer.



:: “Rapture” – We Are All Fossils ::

Josh Weiner, Washington DC

We Are All Fossils, apparently, as implied by the stage name of South African folk singer Deist Oelofse. That onstage pseudonym wound up being something of a head-scratcher to me – OK sure, in millions of years we’ll all be fossils, the same way that dinosaurs are now… but what exactly makes us fossils in this day and age? Is there a metaphor at work here or something? Anyways, perhaps it’s best not to get too overwhelmed by thoughts of that nature, and instead turn our minds to the considerable musical capability that this young singer has already demonstrated to an impressive extent on his early singles – a trend that gets gloriously extended on the latest of these, entitled “Rapture.”

There’s truth in the name this time, as this winds up indeed being quite an enrapturing acoustic single that Oelofse drew the inspiration to write during a stay at the Lake District in the United Kingdom, his current country of residence. Plenty of natural and ethereal imagery is infused into the music, which he says is meant to embody how humans, just like the Earth, are full of resilience and can “adapt to shifting conditions, no matter how harsh.” Although We Are All Fossils’ catalogue is limited to a handful of singles at the moment, the talent and thoughtfulness he has shown early on with singles like “Raptures” demonstrate that he has the potential to build meaningfully upon his body of work in the coming future.



:: “Better Than You Think” – Kamila Kay ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, New York

This song instantly put a big smile on my face, and I feel like my day, my week, my month, and maybe even my year are all better for it: A sweet serenade of sun-kissed soul-pop sound, Kamila Kay’s “Better Than You Think” is an irresistibly upbeat optimistic  anthem.

Tear up page one
Matter of fact put it through the shredder
Aren’t you done pulling yourself together?
Take out the trash, then do it all again
Open your eyes
Watch how the sun keeps on rising
And all you do is criticize
the time it spent hiding

While you were lying awake

And in these dark times, we need all the optimism we can get. Here, the singer/songwriter shines through a radiant rejection of self-doubt, pain, depression, anxiety, and so on. But it’s not the blind leading the blind, nor is she preaching for some sort of naivete; rather, “Better Than You Think” implores us to look at big and small pictures; to recontextualize the things that make us feel bad, that get us down, and understand them in the full scope of our lives.

“When I wrote this song, I was sitting in a semi-windowless bedroom having a thought spiral and/or quarter-life crisis, whatever you wanna call it,” Kay explains. “I was so tired of the doubt cloud that permeated basically every other thought I had. I was like, yes, I feel like I’m failing, I am failing, but I am too old to keep adding negativity to negativity. I am just gonna have to lie my way into a more positive mindset. Doubt the doubts into doubting themselves? It’s really not that deep. I think I just desperately wanted – and still want – to get the hell over myself! I hope when people listen to it they let go of their beliefs (or lack of beliefs) about themselves.”

And I know it’s hard sometimes
Just to survive
I know it’s hard sometimes
To find any hope in your own eyes
But i need you to realize, maybe…
It’s better than you think
(Shoo bee doo, Shoo bee doo)
It’s better than you think
(Shoo bee doo, Shoo bee da baa)
When you’re on the brink of a breakdown
Something good’s about to come around
And it’s gonna be, gonna be
Better than you think
(Shoo bee doo, Shoo bee doo)

January 2025 has walloped me. The West is literally on fire, Washington DC is burning in a more metaphorical sense, new and troubling viruses are popping up left and right while humanitarian efforts are being defunded around the world… and everything feels hopeless. I don’t offer this song as a panacea to all the very real suffering out there, but it’s four and a half minutes of sonic sunshine worth basking in.



:: “A New Dream” – Gregory Darling & Julian Lennon ::

Joe Beer, Surrey, UK

Acclaimed producer/songwriter, Gregory Darling has teamed up with Julian Lennon for his latest release, “A New Dream.” Having been friends and collaborators for many years, the new single is demonstrative of their deep friendship and creative chemistry. “A New Dream” is an anthem for everyone, from all walks of life. With the duo touching on universal emotions and experiences, it acts as a reminder that no dream is too big to reach and that anything is possible as long as we have hope and perseverance.

Darling and Lennon’s complementary vocal tones ooze with emotion and vulnerability. The delicate instrumentation twinkles softly, creating a melancholy yet dreamlike soundscape, while the warm piano melody adds a soothing, optimistic atmosphere. “A New Dream” was originally featured on Darling’s debut album, Shell, in 2006, with the songwriter sharing, “I wanted to put a new twist on the original production and arrangement, so I locked myself in the studio and being subjected to Covid lockdown, it felt appropriate. I created a new beat, replaced the strings with synths, added guitars, bass, BV’s and then Ian Kelosky mixed it, giving it a fresh sound, where the vocals really pop out.”



:: “Two Sides” – BLVDS ::

Danielle Holian, Galway, Ireland

Montana duo BLVDS deliver a dynamic, genre-blurring experience with their latest single, “Two Sides.” Beginning as a dreamy, synth-laced escape, the track steadily builds into a bold, anthemic release of energy that fuses poetic pop with electronic dance vibes and pop-punk’s raw intensity. Impeccably produced yet refreshingly organic, “Two Sides” takes listeners on a heartfelt journey, from hushed, intimate vocals to soaring, impassioned hooks – and just when you think you’ve heard it all, a saxophone solo bursts in to seal the deal. It’s a euphoric and unexpectedly adventurous ride that begs for repeat listens and deserves its moment in the spotlight.



:: “Footprint” – Cory Cullinan ::

Chloe Robinson, California

Cory Cullinan does it all. A musician, commissioned composer, author, award-winning teacher, speaker, studio owner and humorist, we are in awe of his immense talents. His current release “Footprint” is just another representation of his profound skill. There is something about the sounds of nature that is so grounding. Those noises allow us to find gratitude and calm. The music video, directed and created by his daughter Sidney Cullinan, displays serene outdoor images that truly add to the tranquility. His musical creation paired with the compelling visuals craft a feeling of complete catharsis.

In the late 1980s Cullinan was an undergrad at Stanford University. He was taking famed composer and electronic music legend John Chowning’s 220A course. That was when he originally conceived the track, but never quite completed it as digital audio workstations didn’t exist at the time. When Cory received word that Dr. Chowning was coming to a concert Cory was playing at, he was determined to finish the piece. At the end of the work, his former professor shouted humorously from the crowd: “Cory, you did it!” Making everything come full circle.



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