Each Friday, Atwood Journal’s employees share what they’ve been listening to that week – a tune, an album, an artist – no matter’s been having an influence on them, within the second.

This week’s weekly roundup options music by Holly Humberstone & MUNA, Eyedress & The Marías, The Shifting Stills, Olive Louise, SOMOH, VALÉ, Marilyn Hucek, LØLØ, Melanie Baker, Lifafa, Religion Richards, Alisan Porter, The Snuts, Mitch Oliver, Vindigo, & Grace Yurchuk!

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 observe WEEKLY ROUNDUP on Spotify

:: “Into Your Room (with MUNA)” – Holly Humberstone ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, NY

As if “Into Your Room” wasn’t dreamy sufficient, Holly Humberstone’s new collaboration with MUNA shines with much more heat and depth than her unique soul-stirring observe. The rhythm part is deeper and extra pronounced, the refrain brighter, extra dynamic and dramatic at ever as, along with the LA pop trio (undeniably one of many yr’s “IT” bands), the English singer/songwriter erupts with each ardour and ache, dwelling within the brutal (and but in some way, euphoric) depths of her lovely, infinite heartache:

So perhaps, take me
Into your room
With out you my soul is eternally doomed
You’re the centre of this universe
My sorry ass revolves round you
(yeah, yeah)
No I can’t do with out you

The spellbinding second observe on Humberstone’s recently-released debut album Paint My Bed room Black (Atwood Journal gave it a raving 10 out of 10 in our assessment), “Into Your Room” is directly a love-soaked anthem and a lovesick ballad: Humberstone is uncovered and weak as she shares her innermost emotions alongside a buoyant and brooding sonic soundscape of heat, dramatic synths and funky, pulsing beats.

Written in the future “whereas experimenting with pawn shop-bought devices and synths,” the emotionally multifaceted tune is an upward and outward enlargement: One which resonates with wondrous hues and intoxicating grooves that make it as straightforward to bounce to, as it’s to cry with. Humberstone explains that she wrote “Into Your Room” as a method of capturing her guilt from not being current in a brand new relationship; this tune, at its core, is a no-holds-barred declaration of her infinite and timeless love.

That every one-out rush of blood to the top and the guts is enhanced with MUNA, whose lead singer Katie Gavin joins Humberstone within the second verse and subsequent refrain; collectively, they spill their guts, gore and all, in a cinematic, irresistibly catchy and cathartic upheaval of the soul.

In my assessment of this tune, I wrote that “Into Your Room” sees Holly Humberstone “at her highest excessive and lowest low, all within the span of three minutes and thirty seconds.” Little did I do know she might go even increased – and delve even decrease – with the assistance of her mates. Love is aching, all-consuming, and unapologetic, and on “Into Your Room (with MUNA)” we really feel the total scope of that visceral fever dream.

:: “Separate Methods” – Eyedress & The Marías ::

Julia Dzurillay, New Jersey

Whether it’s Cuco, Unhealthy Bunny, or Tainy, The Marías work their signature wispy, psychedelic, sipping-red-wine-in-a-dimly-lit-bar sound into each collaboration. “Separate Methods” with Eyedress isn’t any completely different, marking a brand new period for The Marías and their first collaboration with this singer-songwriter/rapper.

Every instrument has its second to shine, together with the wavy guitar observe and María Zardoya’s sultry vocals. The lyrics particulars a failed romance, with the vocalists lamenting over what might’ve been in the event that they didn’t go, you guessed it, their separate methods.

“Hated that we went our separate methods,” the refrain states. “Perhaps we simply want a while to vary / Perhaps sooner or later, I might keep / Wait, for as soon as I received quite a bit to say.”

:: Wabi Sabi – The Shifting Stills ::

Joe Beer, Surrey, UK

Described as your “pleasant neighborhood indie pop band,” The Shifting Stills immediately entice listeners with a heat and welcoming vibe. The Australian four-piece then hold you alongside for the experience with their feel-good, charming songs, whisking you away to a spot underneath the solar. Their new ten-track album Wabi Sabi completely encapsulates this magical potion that they appear to behold, compelling followers to pay attention to each phrase and observe. In addition to their intoxicating sound, which is packed stuffed with jangly guitars, groove-laden bass and toe-tapping percussion, The Shifting Stills carry individuals in with their trustworthy and relatable tune lyrics. Telling tales from their very own lives, together with falling out and in of affection, making reminiscences along with your buddies and the ups and downs of tour life, the band give us a glimpse into who they’re.

Talking of their development from their earlier launch, the band share, “We needed to introduce new emotions and vibes, to these on our first report Sunshine Nook. While sustaining plenty of the important thing parts of our earlier tunes, we delved into making an expansion of latest flavours. With songs like “Drive Dwelling,” “In Your Metropolis” and the title-track “Wabi Sabi,” we leaned right into a extra groove primarily based really feel. Songs you can instantly vibe out to. Alternatively, we had songs like “Volcano” and “Finest Buddy,” which showcases a extra upbeat aspect to our sound. Undoubtedly works effectively at gigs and on the dance flooring.”

:: “Particular”- Olive Louise ::

Chloe Robinson, California

A poignant ode to all those that have felt like they don’t slot in, Olive Louise’s observe “Particular” is one many people can connect with. Detailing what it’s prefer to really feel misplaced, her breathless, haunting vocals create the right eerie really feel. As people all of us want to be seen and validated. Louise’s braveness to be weak and specific her self –doubt makes the piece deeply highly effective.

Louise’s music exudes an intoxicating dream pop sound. Her poetic lyricism and heat tone instantaneously pulls you in. Her story is one that may draw you in as effectively. Shedding dad and mom irrespective of your age isn’t straightforward, however it’s particularly exhausting to lose them younger. She handled that devastating loss in her teenagers. As painful because it was and nonetheless is, she has channeled that grief into vastly expressive music. “Particular” encapsulates that very same emotional depth.

:: “Man” – SOMOH ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, NY

I love, love, love SOMOH’s breathtaking musical mix of fragility and fervor. The 20-year-old Londoner born Sophia Mohan confirmed off her beautiful abilities on this previous April’s debut five-track A Plan To Get Dwelling, “a superbly tender and unapologetically turbulent fever dream” (my phrases) and considered one of this yr’s finest EPs (pure reality). Following August’s return single “Favorite,” October’s “Man” arrived with the announcement of SOMOH’s forthcoming sophomore EP Drawback Youngster, set for launch on February 22, 2024 by way of Tiny Library Information.

He will get to carry, onto her hand
And act of affection that they’ll all the time perceive
She will get to snigger and fall into him
Unfold her legs till their knees are touching

And I do know the danger
We take simply to kiss
She’ll be my lady
And I’ll be her man

And oh, does this tune harm in all the most effective methods. An aching upheaval of SOMOH’s innermost depths, “Man” is an alluring, all-consuming mixture of churn and appeal, tenderness and turbulence as Mohan wrestles with double-standards round romantic expression between LGBTQ+ and heterosexual relationships. “He will get to fold his arm round her waist; to not have to attend for the second to tempt fait,” she sings, restrained and stressed unexpectedly. “There’s nothing to say, there’s nothing you are able to do. I’ll await my probabilities to choose forbidden fruit…“

“’Man’ was written out of the jealousy I felt in the direction of heterosexual {couples} capable of show their love in public,” SOMOH tells Atwood Journal. “I’ve skilled so many moments in my relationship the place I haven’t felt snug or protected sufficient to be affectionate with my associate. I needed this tune to seize the desperation of wishing I didn’t have to cover that a part of myself a lot.”

For Mohan and so many others, this tune cuts deep, ringing out as an anthem of anger and exhaustion towards a society that also has leagues to go in embracing the “love is love” mantra. However what’s completely extraordinary – if not gut-wrenching – about this tune is how SOMOH takes it one step additional within the refrain, daring to be unapologetic about her love.

And I do know the danger
We take simply to kiss
She’ll be my lady
And I’ll be her man

It’s a mindset we should always aspire to, wrapped in a roaring and radiant tune we are able to play for hours on finish.

:: “the homesick tune” (x-mas model) – VALE ::

Julius Robinson, California

ABarranquilla Colombia native VALÉ is a bewitching vocalist and songwriter identified for her fierce R&B/ pop sound. The singer has simply re-released a brand new model of her emotive observe “the homesick tune” simply in time for Christmas. The piece will contact us all. Most of us can perceive that homesick feeling particularly across the holidays. “the homesick tune” (x-mas model) sung in English and Spanish, possesses that festive enchantment with twinkling bells and lightweight, acoustic guitar. Her delicate, dreamy tone sings of a deep longing to be dwelling. Her heat and wistful high quality reminds listeners of the significance of being collectively.

VALÉ’s different daring singles “bololo” and “oops, my unhealthy!” has landed her a loyal following. Every of her releases pull us in immediately with infectious hooks and extremely assured vocals. Whereas songs like “bololo” evoke vibes of Cardi B, this present providing shows extra of a slowed down type with vocals harking back to Taylor Swift. Regardless of which musical lane, VALÉ’s distinctive artistry comes via.

:: Love & Loss – Marilyn Hucek ::

Kelly McCafferty, New Orleans

Marilyn Hucek launched her EP Love & Loss final Friday. Full with considered one of our favorites “Man of the Home” and newer tracks like “Blissful for You,” Hucek reveals development in sound and songwriting alike. We’ve been taking in every observe of this EP and it is best to too! “Hey” and “LDR” present the extra upbeat aspect of Hucek, whereas a stripped-down “Man of the Home” acoustic model places us in our feels.

We sit up for having fun with this EP and following what Hucek does subsequent!

:: “*snow in berlin*” – LØLØ ::

Josh Weiner, Washington DC

Over Thanksgiving, I made an actual push to finalize a number of Atwood assignments that had been on my back-burner for some time over the end line. These included items on Canadian singer LØLØ and her tune “scorching women in hell,” and one on one other Canadian singer, Rebecca Lappa, who makes use of the wintery climate of her homeland as a metaphor for relationship levels.

On the heels of turning each of these assignments in (yusssss), what higher to jot down about for my subsequent Weekly Roundup entry than a brand new tune by LØLØ that makes use of wintery climate as a metaphor for relationship levels?! Solely fairly than in Canada, the snow that LØLØ describes in her lyrics is that which she encountered throughout a current journey to Germany.

‘”I needed to jot down a tune to do not forget that second, of feeling one thing so particular for the primary time shortly,” LØLØ says of that preliminary encounter with the frosty precipitation within the German capital. “However as quick as that snow can come down, it may possibly additionally soften simply as shortly — the tune goes via their completely different relationship levels, from falling in love, to breaking up nearly as quick.”

“*snow in berlin*” elaborates on that cycle successfully. LØLØ takes us from the place all of it started (“You kissed me and I might style hazard forward”) to the unlucky present state of affairs (“Now we’re not speaking, I hope that you just’re good. I nonetheless take into consideration you far more than I ought to”).

As a fragile acoustic quantity, it’s additionally far calmer and fewer abrasive than any songs I’ve heard from LØLØ to this point. Seeing this artist I’ve been keeping track of for a while now flip a totally new web page in her artistic profile is a noteworthy expertise for me, for certain.

:: “All My Vegetation Have Died” – Melanie Baker ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, NY

Raise your fingers excessive if you happen to can relate to the title of this tune (and RIP to my lovely child pineapple, 5/22/2016 – 9/16/2016). Based mostly on a real story, Melanie Baker’s “All My Vegetation Have Died” is a grungy reckoning with inexperienced thumbs – a visceral, heated reflection not solely on her skill (or lack thereof) to care for her crops, but additionally herself. The Newcastle-based singer/songwriter’s first (and certain solely) tune of the yr, launched November 14 by way of DAEMON T.V, marks a daring new period in Baker’s artistry.

Following her ballad-heavy debut EP Damaged (2020) and the heavier, heartier, alt-rock leaning standalone single “Ready Record” (2022), “All My Vegetation Have Died” sends shivers down the backbone with a churning wall of hard-hitting sound (courtesy of some thunderous drums and supercharged electrical guitars) and a superbly unapologetic, uncompromising vocal efficiency.

all my crops have died
the more serious they get the extra i strive
perhaps i’m simply not match for this type of life
all my mates are unhappy
and that i’ll admit i really feel simply as unhealthy
what’s the level in getting up early
simply to waste extra time?

are we caught in sluggish movement simply watching our lives go by?
if this was a film, it felt kinda scary for some time
every little thing is overrated
i want i used to be extra understated

“All of my crops did truly die inside per week as a result of I used to be unhappy, and I additionally simply wasn’t excellent at taking care of them,” Baker shares. “But it surely’s additionally meant to be a metaphor about attempting to take care of your psychological well being while maintaining in such a quick paced world.”

“I needed the tune to have a giant, chaotic, indignant, rising construct on the finish which is one thing I’ve by no means had the boldness to do with my songwriting earlier than. Writing the lyrics alone in my front room was cathartic sufficient however getting my finest mates to then add layers and layers of guitars, noise, punky drums and shouting on the prime of our lungs “I’ll by no means have to fret” was much more of an emotional launch that I didn’t know I wanted.”

isn’t it so mad that everyone’s principally a lab rat
in our go well with and ties
attempting to simply get by because the imply machine goes on
i sit in my front room
writing songs for me and also you
i’ve given up attempting to make them sound good

are we caught in sluggish movement simply watching our lives go by?
if this was a film, it felt kinda scary for some time
every little thing is overrated
i want i used to be extra understated

We might take a microscope to Baker’s lyrics, and in some unspecified time in the future sooner or later we very effectively may – she really holds nothing again right here, saying aloud all of the issues we are inclined to bury deep down inside – however for now, I like to recommend basking within the stomach of this fiery, fervent upheaval.

Sonically and lyrically beautiful, “All My Vegetation Have Died” aches with an alluring, irreverent scuzzy, grungy grit as Baker sheds her softer singer/songwriter pores and skin for one thing with a extra electrifying edge. Followers of Lauran Hibberd, Matilda Mann, ella jane, Abbie Ozard, Pale Waves, Momma, Orla Gartland and extra are certain to fall head over heels not only for this tune, however for this artist who screams her coronary heart out whereas carrying it unabashedly on her sleeve.

i killed all my crops over evening
i attempted to carry them again to life
however each time i attempted
i received too rattling unhappy after which i attempted to
begin a rock and roll band

all my mates are drained and that i’m uninterested in being so drained
i attempted to construct a backyard nevertheless it dried up in a fortnight
everyone’s working exhausting to pay their payments and get a greater job
and go for runs and write some songs and make some artwork
purchase a home and cook dinner good meals
not be unhappy and never be lonely
make new mates and fall in love
earn more money cash cash
go to remedy and go to high school
attempt to be so f’ing cool

perhaps i’ll go to area or perhaps i’ll simply go to hell
i’ll purchase a yacht i’ll be well-known and actually actually glad
and perhaps then i’ll pay somebody to take care of my crops for me
perhaps then i’ll fall asleep and by no means have to fret
i’ll by no means have to fret, no i’ll by no means have to fret…

:: Jaago – Lifafa ::

Miles Campbell, Washington, DC

I’ve been mesmerized by the inventive creativity of Peter Cat Recording Co.‘s Suryakant Sawhney for a while now, nevertheless it wasn’t till stumbling upon his aspect venture Lifafa that I noticed Sawhney’s artwork is aware of no limits and definitely is confined to no genres.

Lifafa’s freshman album Jaago pairs digital music manufacturing with Hindi and Urdu vernacular, one thing that Sawheny observed was lacking from India’s digital music scene. The report is mysterious, undefined and utterly left open for interpretation, that includes hypnotizing melodies paired with Sawheny’s silky croon. Much like Peter Cat’s philosophy of refusing to stick to vanilla tune buildings of verse/refrain/verse/bridge, Sawheny capitalizes on tempo modifications, mellow-turned-intense beats and vocal swelling to go away the listener pondering upon what has simply been skilled.

“It’s a spot the place I’d prefer to think about I’ve a totally clean infinitely giant canvas to strive no matter I like, nonetheless area of interest an concept and try to refine it until its restrict earlier than wiping all of it clear and beginning once more on one thing else,” Sawheny mentioned in an interview with Prime 5 Information. “So I suppose proper now what I’m engaged on is the type of Hindi music I want I heard enjoying round me.”

All 8 tracks featured on Lififa are inherently distinctive items of the Hindi-meets-electronic puzzle that Sawheny efficiently tried to piece collectively. Title observe “Jaago” and “Sweet” sonically painting themselves to be rooted in self-introspection and nostalgia, whereas tracks similar to “Chaku Chidiya” and “Nikamma” characteristic extra of the Bollywood aptitude and magnificence. Take a look at Mere Saath for the keys to a deep trance portal guided by Sawheny’s assuaging vocals.

:: “good lady” – Religion Richards ::

Joe Beer, Surrey, UK

R&B artist Religion Richards is aware of the way to set the temper in her evocative new single, “good lady.” Having grown up within the Mormon church, the now Paris primarily based artist is aware of the way it feels to must stay life in keeping with particular pointers. However now, she rejects this lifestyle, demanding to be boldly, fearlessly and most significantly, authentically herself. “good lady” demonstrates simply that. The mischievous observe sees the songwriter singing about being able to be sexual along with your associate, whereas additionally nonetheless attending church.

Richards shares, “I’m human – typically I’m shy, typically I’m social, typically I’m busy, typically I’m simply doing my very own factor. I might be every little thing unexpectedly. No label. No field. Simply Religion Richards in her entirety.” The artist delivers this highly effective message via alluring melodies, ethereal vocals and an addictive beat. Injecting us with a fierceness and willpower to be precisely who we need to be, “good lady” is an anthem for once you want a confidence increase.

:: “Meant for Me” – Alisan Porter ::

Julius Robinson, California

It is claimed there’s somebody on the market for everybody. Should you imagine within the time period “soul mate” this assertion can ring true. Simply because your individual could also be on the market although, it doesn’t imply the love will likely be straightforward. Relationships take work. Alisan Porter is conversant in weathering love’s storm. She particulars navigating the highs and lows of a partnership as a result of just like the tune title states the individual is “meant for me.” “Meant for Me” is an emotional, Americana/ nation observe that’s seeped in masterful storytelling. Porter’s beautiful, textured, earthy tone provides to the trustworthy narrative.

The Massachusetts native brings a large set of abilities to the musical desk. A singer, songwriter, actress, and vocal coach, her huge skills gained her a devoted following. Featured on Star Search at simply 5-years-old, even at a younger age she was charming audiences. Now along with making music, she has additionally labored on huge Broadway performances similar to Footloose and the revival of A Refrain Line. Inside “Meant for Me” Porter continues to showcase her uncommon present.

:: “Desires” – The Snuts ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, NY

A spellbinding seduction, “Desires” lives as much as its title as a wellspring of heat and marvel. Launched this previous August, The Snuts’ second single of the yr (following June’s “Gloria”) is a sun-soaked singalong that calls for to be shouted on the prime of our lungs. The Scottish indie rock band have dazzled us from the get-go, releasing two sweltering studio albums in comparatively fast succession (W.L. got here out in April 2021, adopted by Burn the Empire in September 2022) – and in doing so, taking the entire world by storm with an electrifying, emotionally charged sound.

Did I hear you say
We’re made for one another
Breakfast in mattress
The suns up endlessly
You’re romer than Paris
Prettier too
I have to be dreaming
How did I discover you

Hey, I do know
You’re a golden baby
You’re one million miles higher
Hey, I’m certain
I’m in love with you
And nothing feels higher

They usually’re nonetheless simply getting began. Newer singles “NPC” and “Deep Diving” arrived with the announcement of The Snuts’ third studio album Millennials, scheduled to return out February 23 “on their very own phrases” – i.e., independently (they have been beforehand signed to Parlophone within the UK and are actually releasing by way of their very personal label, Blissful Artist Information, distributed via The Orchard).

Impartial and thriving? It actually does sound like The Snuts live out their wildest goals – and extra energy to them. “Desires” has an enthralling seductive vitality – one which we are able to’t assist however fall for time and again. The band calls it a feel-good clap-along observe. “It celebrates the sensation of punching means above your weight when life feels nearly too good to be true,” they share.

Per frontman Jack Cochrane’s description, “Desires” is the right introduction to the band’s forthcoming third LP. “Main into this new report, the unique concept was: Are there any songs we’ve forgotten to jot down?” he says. “Are there any concepts and emotions we are able to dip again into from once we weren’t dwelling on this music world? That’s the place we, as millennials, got here up with the idea. Tapping into the feelings that we perhaps hadn’t processed into music. These huge boiling factors in your life. The primary time you’re falling in love. First time your coronary heart is damaged. These pivotal moments. On the final report there was a bit extra nuance. With this one, we needed to see how it could really feel if we went extra direct on the songs and to attach as simply as doable. I don’t assume we’re dwelling in an age now the place individuals need to spend time taking one thing aside. We would like individuals to really feel it the primary time they hear it.”

Millennials guarantees to be a powerhouse of stirring sentiment and cinematic vitality. Get misplaced within the thrill of The Snuts’ “Desires” and keep tuned for extra forward of the report’s late February launch!

these days, i’ve been manifesting
that i’m king and your queen

by no means in my wildest goals
would you be all mine
prefer it’s meant to be…

:: Mitch Oliver ::

Josh Weiner, Washington DC

I spent Veteran’s Day Weekend up in Montreal simply now, and like all of my journeys there have been, this one was (a) extremely enjoyable and (b) very a lot coloured by the sturdy stay music scene within the metropolis. Thus, now that I’m again on this aspect of the world’s longest mutual nationwide border, the easiest way to return to Montreal in my thoughts (one thing I’m all the time eager on doing hehe) is, certainly, to take heed to some contemporary new music from that wonderful metropolis!

Aiding me with that native is MTL native Mitch Oliver and his new tune “Hidden Gem.” It’s fairly removed from the stay music I did see there throughout my journey– some indie folks on the Place des Arts and a blues/rock set at Bistro à Jojo– nevertheless it’s a nice slice of the present Canadian dance music scene all the identical. Monsieur Oliver premiered this observe as a part of his spectacular hour-long DJ set as a part of a rooftop sundown occasion on the town. Now that he’s produced a proper studio recording of the tune, the enjoyable and an infection of that memorable night is endlessly preserved. À écouter absolument!

:: “Subway” – Vindigo ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, NY

Words merely can not specific how impressed and invigorated I really feel, that the ’90s are lastly again in vogue. As a toddler of ’92, I by no means received to “expertise” bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden of their prime; by the point I found grunge in my teenagers, it was the late aughts, and liking that sort of heavy various music made you one thing of an… effectively, I received’t name it an outcast, however I definitely wasn’t a part of the “in” group, both.

Howdy
Welcome to a different excellent day
How low?
Does every little thing look like okay?

I’m bored
I can not hold enjoying this sport
No extra
However I can’t inform if I’m the one accountable

I don’t know if we have now Olivia Rodrigo to thank for the previous few years’ sea change, or if it’s simply the pure means of the world, however alt-rock (in its many types) is decidedly modern as soon as once more, and the previous few years have seen an increase in artists making heavy, unapologetic scorchers that hit exhausting and go away a mark – all whereas in some way… sounding… cool?

Even LA “indie punks” Vindigo, a model new four-piece that emerged earlier this yr, have an simple attract about them. Their fifth single “Subway,” independently launched November 17, is a ruthless and uncooked reckoning that may’t assist however recall to mind ’90s tunes like “Territorial Pissings,” “Breed,” and – for the mainstream crowd – “In Bloom.”

Gotta discover a means
a strategy to be higher
Dwelling in a world that’s
made for killers (accountable)
Gotta discover a means
a strategy to be higher
I received to get away
(the one accountable)
I received to get away

Even the way in which their members speak sounds decidedly grunge and anti-establishment.

“‘Subway’ is about feeling such as you’re caught in a world that prioritizes earnings and perfection above progress and compassion,” Vindigo’s lead singer and guitarist Dakota Brubaker tells Atwood Journal. “Lots of people in our era really feel that the way in which our society is structured doesn’t mirror our personal priorities or pursuits and this disconnect typically makes it insufferable to undergo the daily motions.”

“The lyrics contact on these ideas with traces like: “Howdy, welcome to a different excellent day, how low. Does every little thing look like okay?” The just about robotic cadence reveals how degrading it’s to get up to a different day of enjoying in a sport that you just don’t imagine in. The lyrics additionally contact on this with traces like, “I’m bored, I can not hold enjoying on this sport. No extra, however I can’t inform if I’m the one accountable.” The lyrics ask the listener what half they could play in why society is structured this fashion and perhaps we’re part of the issue and answer. The tune’s sound is impressed by punk and alt-rock with loud guitars and booming drums. It’s the third out of 4 singles from the band’s upcoming debut EP titled Ur 4 Sale.”

Like oil and vinegar, apathy and a relentless drive to higher this damaged world have lengthy been two hallmarks of different music, lots of whose mainstays have been and are activists – some outspoken via outdoors ventures, others immediately via their artwork. Vindigo are younger they usually’re stressed, they’re grunge they usually’re inexperienced, they usually’re undeniably an artist to look at in 2024.

:: “Shock, Shock” – Grace Yurchuk ::

Mitch Mosk, Beacon, NY

“Are you stunned by my conviction, or simply the braveness that it takes?” 20-year-old Grace Yurchuk sings on the prime of her debut album. I suppose the reply is, each! The alt-pop singer/songwriter (and present NYU scholar) stuns with radiant vocals and provocative lyrics all through the independently-released Shock, Shock, and nowhere does she stand out greater than on the report’s intoxicating title observe. Achingly intimate, up-close, and private, “Shock, Shock” finds empowerment and liberation via vulnerability as Yurchuk confronts a good friend’s unhealthy actions and, in flip, herself.

Are you stunned by my conviction?
Or simply the braveness that it takes?
You by no means cared for confrontation
Was it enjoyable by no means taking the blame
in your errors?

“‘Shock, Shock’ was one of many closing tracks I wrote for this venture. I knew I needed the opener to be a preview of the songs and themes to return, however didn’t know the place to begin till this previous summer time,” Yurchuk tells Atwood Journal. “I had lately been very harm in a friendship, and as a substitute of lashing out on the different individual, I attempted to remain very cool, calm, and picked up. As an alternative of feeling pleased with my composure, I felt like I didn’t rise up for myself, which has been a standard theme all through my life.  It received me considering: Even after I thought I used to be doing one thing completely different, I used to be doing one thing I’ve all the time carried out. In fact it could prove this fashion. Why would I be stunned? After which the tune poured out of me. I wrote it earlier than a household dinner in quarter-hour.”

“‘Shock, Shock’ touches on emotions of understanding who you might be to a fault, and assuming the great in others whereas they assume the worst of you.  I attempted to seize the emotions of anger I had effervescent underneath the floor with the instrumentation and punchy lyrics, however the observe is hopeful ultimately – we could also be caught off guard by different individuals’s actions, however ultimately, we all the time have ourselves.”

Independently written and produced by Yurchuk, Shock, Shock (the album) is a unbelievable introduction to an artist able to share her complete, unabridged self with the world and anybody who cares to pay attention.

“Shock, Shock consists of tracks that I wrote and produced independently within the final yr and a half, whereas concurrently learning classical vocal efficiency at NYU Steinhardt,” she explains. “I wrote most of those songs in a follow room on the ninth flooring of the Training Constructing, and recorded them in my (far quieter) childhood bed room in Warwick, New York.  Every sound you hear on this album is one made by me!”

“I wrote Shock, Shock within the midst of many common faculty and coming-of-age experiences, together with attempting to determine my id as a younger author and younger lady in New York. I’d been asking myself: How a lot of who I’m is what others consider me, and the way a lot of who I’m is what I consider myself? Is it doable to defy the expectations we set for ourselves? Shock, Shock is an amalgamation of my emotions, a symphony of my experiences with friendships, breakups, and every little thing in between!”

Shock, Shock is enjoyable, poignant at instances, however nonetheless an gratifying experience via relatable coming-of-age highs and lows. Yurchuk finds her voice all through this various, but cohesive set of tracks, and whereas highlights vary in measurement and scope from the glistening, attractive indie pop banger “Too A lot” to the acoustic guitar-driven pop ballad “What You Want,” it’s the scene-setting “Shock, Shock” that continues to knock me off my ft, placing a second of intimate reflection and inside counting on the highlight and all however guaranteeing we pay particular, shut consideration to all Grace Yurchuk releases from right here on out.

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