We admittedly fell behind on this feature, but thankfully help has come in the form one of our new interns, Ava Ferriero. Everyone tell her how awesome she is once you listen to all this music below.

Reviews by Ava Ferriero

Shannon Tehya - “Human”
This song is like sunshine. “Human” by Shannon Tehya is bubbly with an upbeat melody. It’s a head bopper with wholesome lyrics, touching on the beauty of being human. Lyrics like, “don’t slam the door on those who need more love,” combined with the energetic composition makes you want to dance. The trumpet solo towards the end simply adds to the lively rhythm. I think in today's society, inundated with negativity, there lies importance in recognizing the positives of humanity. Pairing this message with a catchy tune and angelic vocals like Tehya’s offers a source of light amid so much darkness.

Prince Daddy and the Hyena - “30days30days30days”
From the first beat, you’re sucked into “30days30days30days.” It’s edgy and different, but that distinctness is what drives its message: to just live your life while you can! Prince Daddy & the Hyena cultivate an indie-rock melody using drums and hardcore guitar. The rebellious instrumentals combined with the passion in the lead singer's voice convince you to “repair what's malfunctioning” like they preach. The chaotic, fast-paced ending leaves the song up to interpretation. It reminds me of the unstructuredness of life, and the uncontrollableness of time. Art is the ability to convey feelings through creation, and this song embodies the overwhelming, unpredictable whirlwind of human life.

James Mullen - “Winter’s Wail”
It’s hard to record a song in your bedroom with nothing but a USB microphone and acoustic guitar, but somehow James Mullen recorded a great one. “Winter’s Wail” is what you put on when you want to think deeply. Raw and vulnerable, Mullen's unique voice carries you through the feeling of thawing out after a long, cold, winter. As we transition into warmer weather, I think there are aspects of all of us that change. With only his vocals and a light acoustic guitar melody, Mullen is able to explore deep emotions that follow growth and change using seasons as a broader metaphor. The steady, soft instrumental allows the vulnerability of the lyrics to shine.

Narrow North - “Guilt and Gold”
This song at first feels upbeat and folky, but when the vocals begin, it completely alters the vibe. “Guilt and Gold” is an energetic tune but with a twist. The edgy, deep voice makes the song go from lighthearted to intentional. The harmonizing in the chorus gives it depth. The title truly fits what the song is portraying. The vocals are ominous and raw, evoking a feeling like guilt. But it’s carried by an upbeat and fun tune, which is the gold. Narrow North definitely knew what they were doing with “Guilt and Gold” — and it work

Simon Elijah - “Meet Me at Dawn”
Simon Elijah has a voice like I’ve never heard before. The guitar sets him up by drawing listeners in. You aren’t expecting such a strong, distinct voice, but that’s what contributes to its uniqueness. When you get to the chorus, the electric guitar starts to play lightly in the background, adding another layer to this folk song. It’s about burnout and striving for perfection — a topic relatable for many. You feel the passion in Elijah's voice as he sings “Meet me at dawn,” as if the quiet of dawn is the only time he escapes the expectation of perfection. I really enjoyed the simplicity of the tune yet the depth of the lyrics.

Reality Distortion - “Rat Race (RYISFLY REMIX)”
Everytime I play this song I feel like I need strobe lights and a glittery outfit on. “Rat Race (Ryisfly Remix)” is what Reality Distortion calls “a hypnotic-electronic flip” of their dream pop original. The fast beat is impossible not to bop your head to. Linnea Seegers voice is mystifying and curious, which makes the song sort of cryptic. It’s almost secretive, like someone at a chaotic party is giving you a top-secret lore drop. I’ll admit, I did get up and dance to this one, especially when the beat dropped. How could I not?

Justin Charles - “In the Crowd”
This is so pop, Justin Bieber (except written by Justin Charles), 2000’s core and I’m here for it. “In the crowd” is about relentlessly yearning and holding on to hope, even when you shouldn't. Charles perfectly demonstrates what it feels like to want someone you can’t be with. He captures the emotions of not being able to shake someone from your mind, even if you urge to. “Maybe there’s still a chance,” is something we all have caught ourselves saying. Charles just says it with a catchy beat to back him up, and I love it.

Yahz - “Afterglow”
“Afterglow” immediately hooks you with a mysterious yet calming beat. Then, the vocals are added, and it becomes even more soothing. About halfway through, the beat stops, giving Yahz’s voice center stage. At that moment, the listener physically feels her passion and frustration. “You look me in the eye, have the nerve to call us friends. Oh, how you love to stick the knife in,” she intensely recites. Pausing the instrumental is genius — it emphasizes her pain and calls attention to the heavy substance of the lyrics. “FUCK!” She relatably yells midway through. The realness of her hurt reflected in this song is something I’ve never heard before. “Afterglow” is vulnerable, poetic, and a 10/10 from me.

GOONS! - “Rob Cheat Steal”
GOONS! knows how to make being a criminal sound groovy. “Rob Cheat Steal” is truly a bunch of guys jamming out, each with their own distinct musical talents. The intensity is immediate — they waste no time. Throughout the song, each instrument gets their moment, smoothly and swiftly transitioning to the next. Not only is the melody catchy, but the best part is, you can feel the fun the band has playing it. The song also has a unique premise, being from a criminal’s point of view. GOONS! Are truly unlike any other, and certainly worth listening to. Just be careful, you may catch yourself singing “Rob, steal, cheat, repeat!” around town.