Tag #ALT-POP

Meg Smith’s “Girls Just Wanna Be Famous” Gets a Glittery Upgrade with Molly Grace & MARIS for “Girls Just Wanna Be Famous (er) And.. It Is A Work Of Art

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Cover Art – Lauren Nieves

We recently had the phenomenal opportunity, to check out the electrified new version of Meg Smith’s fan-favorite single “Girls Just Wanna Be Famous”, released through Artist House. Meg, has teamed up with fellow pop powerhouses , Molly Grace, and MARIS. And… it is absolutely amazing!!

You can listen to “Girls Just Wanna Be Famous (er) Here

First released earlier this year, “Girls Just Wanna Be Famous” became an underground anthem – a sparkling, theatrical ode to ambition, stardom, and feminine chaos. Now reimagined with Molly and MARIS, the new version takes on fresh life with three bold voices and a shared sense of tongue-in-cheek honesty. It’s maximalist, emotional, and infectious, the kind of pop song that makes you want to laugh and choreograph a performance in your bedroom mirror.

The second we finished writing ‘Girls Just Wanna Be Famous’, I knew I wanted Molly & Maris to feature on the remix,” says Meg. “This song is a love letter to every girl who’s dreamed of their name in lights and I’m so inspired by Molly and Maris’ hard work and talent. We had so much fun working on this remix!

MARIS, the genre-bending pop star known for her glittery synths and cosmic storytelling, wrote and recorded her verse remotely after Meg reached out via Instagram. 

“’Girls Just Wanna Be Famous(er)’ feels like both a celebration and a lament for the path of a creative girl who really just wants to connect with people,” MARIS says. “Meg literally just DM’d me on Instagram and asked if I would be down to write a verse, which I was so excited about because I already loved the song so much! I ended up writing a verse in one sitting and recorded the vocals in my home studio. Seeing everything come to life has been so fun and beautiful, and I’m honored to be on a song with such stunning pop icons!! ❤ I am a Meg Smith and Molly Grace stan forever.”

Molly Grace, whose disco-drenched alt-pop and powerhouse vocals have made her one of the genre’s rising stars, delivers a fiery new verse and irresistible energy to the rework. Already a close collaborator of Meg’s, this marks their first official release together.

Alongside the release, Meg also announces she’ll be joining Molly Grace on her upcoming ‘Blush’ Tour as direct support, kicking off October 10 in Chicago, hitting 25 major cities across North America, and wrapping up November 17 in Los Angeles.

We are absolutely over the moon about the extraordinary remix “Girls Just Wanna Be Famous (er) from Meg Smith, Featuring Molly Grace & MARIS

Meg Smith ‘Blush’ Tour Dates:

October 10 – Chicago, IL – Lincoln Hall

October 11 – Minneapolis, MN – 7th Street Entry 

October 12 – Milwaukee, WI – Shank Hall

October 14 – Columbus, OH – Ace of Cups

October 15 – Ferndale, MI – The Loving Touch

October 17 – Toronto, ON – Velvet Underground

October 18 – Albany, NY – Lark Hall

October 19 – Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club

October 21 – New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom

October 23 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl Philly

October 24 – Carrboro, NC – Cat’s Cradle

October 25 – Asheville, NC – Asheville Music Hall

October 26 – Columbia, SC – New Brookland Tavern

October 28 – Orlando, FL – The Social

October 29 – Atlanta, GA – The Loft

October 30 – Nashville, TN – The Basement East

November 5 – St. Louis, MO – Old Rock House

November 7 – Dallas, TV – Club Dada

November 8 – Austin, TX – 3TEN

November 9 – Houston, TX – House of Blues Houston 

November 11 – Kansas City, MO – Encore at Uptown

November 13 – Denver, CO – Marquis Theater

November 14 – Salt Lake City, UT – Kilby Court 

November 16 – Phoenix, AZ – Valley Bar

November 17 – West Hollywood, CA – The Roxy Theatre

TOUR TICKETS Here

SOPHIE POWERS JOINS FORCES WITH RJ PASIN ON NEW SINGLE “XO” AND …. IT’S AMAZING!

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Artwork by Tegh Rataul (@teghrataul)

We recently had the opportunity to check out the new single, “XO”, from Sophie Powers and producer RJ Pasin. You can listen to , “XO” Here

“XO”, is an explosive new single that plunges into a chaotic, cinematic soundscape where hyperpop’s frenetic energy collides with the raw power of metalcore.

Press Photo by Colleen McPhillips (@cardboardsweater)

“XO” captures the emotional volatility of a generation overwhelmed by societal pressure but unwilling to stay silent. With piercing, unapologetic vocals and a sharp lyrical perspective, Sophie cuts through the noise with fearless clarity. The result is a track that feels both defiant and cathartic, grounded in Sophie’s emotionally unfiltered delivery and signature melodic punch.

“‘XO’ is pure femme fatale energy—like kissing destruction on the mouth,” Sophie shares. “Working with RJ Pasin unlocked this wild sonic tension I’ve been chasing for a while. It’s the sound of me stepping into womanhood, claiming my power, and still recklessly chasing chaos like it’s love. As Hannah Montana said, sometimes you really do get the best of both worlds—and this song is proof. My voice wraps around RJ’s guitar in a way that feels both raw and hypnotic, but it’s that mysterious, unhinged energy that gives ‘XO’ its heartbeat.”

Driving the track’s sonic intensity is RJ Pasin, the multi-hyphenate producer known for fusing cinematic metalcore with emo rap and electronic math rock. RJ injects “XO” with glitch-heavy textures, punishing breakdowns, and a jolt of unpredictability. With over 300 million solo streams and credits alongside Sexy Redd, Flo Milli, Bring Me The Horizon, and more, RJ brings both subcultural grit and forward-thinking precision to the collaboration, amplifying Sophie’s voice without ever overshadowing it.

“XO”, from Sophie Powers, featuring RJ Pasin, is an electrifying, powerful thrill ride of a track that we are absolutely mesmerized by.

Whitehall Takes A Giant Leap With Melodically Beautiful New Single,”Baby Steps “

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We recently had the wonderful opportunity to check out the new single, “Baby Steps”, from Brooklyn-based alternative rockers Whitehall.

You can listen to “Baby Steps” Here You can watch the video below.

“Baby Steps”, from Whitehall, is a perfectly crafted melodic gem that is absolutely mesmerizing.


Photo: David Patiño 

This song is about how fragile life can suddenly feel,” the band shares. “A parent getting sick can shift your entire perspective. Big moments like that push me to connect with the part of myself that still believes, ‘it’s getting better all the time.’”

“Baby Steps”, grabs your attention with a simple but powerful melody that effortlessly draws you in to the beauty of an amazing song.

Renowned for their dynamic sound, poignant lyricism, and unforgettable hooks, Whitehall—made up of Paddy McKiernan (vocals, guitar), Avery Greeson (guitar), Brennan Clark (bass), and Davis Rowe (drums)—continue to evolve while staying grounded in the essence of their early work.

“Baby Steps” offers a glimpse into their forthcoming album, expected later this year. With millions of streams under their belt, accolades from NPR, Alternative Press, and American Songwriter, and national tours alongside the Goo Goo Dolls, Arlie, and Carver Commodore , Whitehall is stepping into a bold new chapter—one marked by growth, energy, and deep introspection.

“Baby Steps”, from Whitehall, is a delightful and meaningful musical experience, we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Happy Little Clouds Have Us On Cloud Nine, With New Single, Clear and Present Danger”

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Artwork credit: Jac Mestel

We really love listening to music , Boston, based grit-pop band, Happy Little Clouds, is definitely one of those reasons. We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out their new single, “Clear&Present Danger”, via The Sound Cove. You can listen to “Clear & Present Danger, on Spotify Here, Apple Music Here and on Bandcamp Here

Known for their energetic, gritty blend of power pop and indie rock, this new release promises to captivate fans both old and new. We were absolutely mesmerized by the new single, “Clear & Present Danger” from Happy Little Clouds, they definitely hit a new level of awesomeness with this one .

“Clear & Present Danger” is a post-grunge earworm that showcases Happy Little Clouds’ raw energy and dynamic sound. The song’s groove and melody pair with an evocative lyrical journey. Set for release just after May Day, “Clear & Present Danger” taps into themes of resistance, including confronting narcissistic manipulation and toxic power structures.


Photo credit: Jac Mestel

“This topic feels super relevant right now,” said lead vocalist/guitarist Jac Mestel. “We all know someone like this—a boss, a partner, a relative, or even a politician—whose charm hides an ugly side. And we know the truth about them, and we are screaming to their fans and supporters, ‘How can you not see this?!’”

Clear and Present Danger” draws from those experiences, paired with the realization that a narcissist’s power is ultimately paper thin. Lyrics like, “I saw her hand was made of glass, which I could surely shatter,” empower listeners to break free from cycles of abuse. The single marks a bold statement for Happy Little Clouds’ forthcoming new album, which is set for release later this year.

As a musical unit, Happy Little Clouds, have always displayed next level musicianship, this is front and center on , “Clear&PresentDanger” , particularly the otherworldly drumming that is brilliantly featured on the track. For Jess Townsend—one of Boston’s most acclaimed rock drummers—the single was a true labor of love, pushing her to new creative heights.

“This is the drum beat that I’m most proud of to date,” she shared. “I have always wanted to incorporate a linear beat, and I worked really hard with the dynamics to make this one groove.” She credits the standout performance to her strong collaboration with Mestel and bassist Derek Bergstrom, whose creative energy helped bring out the best in her playing.

Bergstrom’s interesting use of bass distortion on the song fosters an ethereal soundscape. “The bass line was inspired by Gang of Four and The Replacements, with a nod to Future Islands,” he said.

“Clear & Present Danger” was recorded and mixed by Ethan Dussault at New Alliance and mastered by Pete Weiss at Jade Cow Audio—both in Somerville, MA. The song is available for streaming on all major platforms, including Apple Music, Bandcamp, and Spotify. “Clear & Present Danger” and other recent singles feature tarot-inspired original cover art, which can be viewed on the trio’s Bandcamp or website.

“Clear&Present Danger”, from Happy Little Clouds, is an important well crafted gem that needs to be heard.

Happy Little Clouds are:

Jac Mestel: Vocals, Guitar

Derek Bergstrom: Bass

Jess Townsend: Drums

Robert Grace , Featuring The Fox Mob, Releases Epic New Single, “Cowboy”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single, “Cowboy” from Irish, alt-pop artist Robert Grace, featuring The Fox Mob. You can listen to “Cowboy” Here

Being a music blog , we listen to a lot of music ( It’s what we do) We truly believe that we have found the song of the summer , “Cowboy” from Robert Grace, featuring The Fox Mob

The beats and melody on “Cowboy” are simply a thing of musical beauty, coupled with absolutely flawless vocals.

“Cowboy” is one of those songs that once you hear it once… you are hooked ( trust us this is a good thing )

Robert Grace, has some live dates coming up see below for details.

Do yourself a favorite and check out “Cowboy” from Robert Grace, featuring The Fox Mob. Your music loving heart will thank you .

Joy Buzzer Brings Absolute Joy With Electrifying New Single, “Simone”

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We recently had the distinct honor to check out the stunning new standalone single, “Simone” via Wicked Cool Records from New York City’s premier Power Pop band, Joy Buzzer. You can listen to “Simone” Here

This latest track, “Simone”, follows their recent LP, Pleased To Meet You, which was released last October via Wicked Cool Records.

Describing the new song, the band says, “It’s a heartbreaking story of isolation and unrequited love—blasted out by drums and wires at 500 mph.”

Don’t miss Joy Buzzer live at NYC’s Bowery Electric on Thursday, June 12th!

Joy Buzzer, packs the perfect melodic punch and it is on full display on the brilliant new single, “Simone”

Flawless , catchy vocal woven effortlessly between picture perfect melodies. One Listen to “Simone” from Joy Buzzer, and it is obviously that we have hit the power pop jackpot.

With a winning combination of catchy hooks and jet fuel, JOY BUZZER has quickly moved up the ranks as one of New York’s premier power pop acts. Inspired by bands such as Fountains of Wayne, XTC, Squeeze, Todd Rundgren and Badfinger,JOY BUZZER delivers an abundance of big-time melodies and blissful choruses.

Television Skies Craft A Timeless Gem With New Single, “Time Of My Life”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the vibrantly brilliant new single, “Time Of My Life”, from New York City based duo, Television Skies( Spoiler Alert: It Is Freaking Awesome) You can listen to “Time Of My Life” Here

At the risk of sounding too corny , we had the time of our life , listening to “Time Of My Life , from Television Skies.

Television Skies, blend infectious pop rock energy with a vintage, feel-good vibe. Known for their anthemic hooks, raw emotion, and rebellious spirit, they create songs that hit with both nostalgic intensity and punk rock heart. Television Skies is redefining alternative pop music on their own terms — staying true, and free from disguise. Inspired by artists like The 1975, Coldplay and Arctic Monkeys, the duo craft intoxicating songs that speak to universal themes of love, identity, and perseverance. 

Their latest single “Time of My Life” showcases the duo’s ability to combine the anthemic energy of classic rock with the storytelling and emotion of alternative pop. Capturing a moment of recklessness, the track details when you’ve gone too far, and there’s no turning back. They share, “There is a strong through-line throughout our music that aims to inspire and draw out the limitless potential of our generation. Turning to a more rock based sound for our new project to try to capture the nostalgic yet hopeful look toward a better and brighter tomorrow. It’s desperate, vulnerable, and raw, a crash in slow motion. All you can do is hope that the people you love will remember your life with a smile. There’s beauty in the wreckage, a feeling that’s both tragic and euphoric.”

Sonically, “Time of My Life” balances motion and reflection. Its fast pace and driving percussion mirror the urgency of pushing forward in life, while the reflective lyrics emphasize its nostalgic tone. Working alongside Cass Dillon (Morgan Saint, Devora, Billy Joel), “Time of My Life” sees the band entering a fresh approach to their songwriting, delving into themes of searching—searching for meaning, searching for identity, searching for a place where we belong. 

Television Skies add, “Time of My Life is about making mistakes, losing control, and still finding a reason to keep going. If it inspires someone to take a risk, to chase something they’ve been afraid to go after, or even just to let go of whatever’s been holding them back, then we’ve done our job. There’s a freedom in accepting that life is messy, that you don’t have to have everything figured out, and that sometimes the best thing you can do is just throw yourself into the moment. More than anything, we hope our music gives people that push—to live fully, to love sincerely, and to believe that no matter where they are, they can always find their way home.”

In our opinion, ( feel free to debate us ) you need 3 things for a hit song, Skill, A Good Melody and a little luck. Television Skies, have absolutely hit the jackpot with “Time Of My Life” . Run don’t walk to your closest music listening machine and get lost in the magic of , “Time Of My Life” from Television Skies.

Caroline Romano Delivers Stunningly Fantastic New EP, “How The Good Girls Die”

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Photos by Hayley Mikell

We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new EP, “How The Good Girls Die”, from Nashville-based alt-pop artist Caroline Romano. You can listen to “How The Good Girls Die”, Here

Caroline Romano, is a rising alt-pop artist who is soaring to new heights with every new release, her new EP, “How The Good Girls Die” is a fine example as to why Caroline Romano, is one to watch.

Previous singles, “IDK These Days”, Body Bag,” “Pretty Boys,” and “Born To Want More,” are all featured on “How The Good Girls Die “The EP also features two other new songs , “They Say “ and the title track, “How The Good Girls Die”

Photos by Hayley Mikel

“How The Good Girls Die explores the universal struggle of chasing perfection. “This EP is about chasing pretty things and tripping over your own dress while trying to catch them,” Caroline shares. “It’s what I know about shapeshifting, parties, hunger, and vodka. It’s swimming pools, disco balls, bruises, and bar bathrooms. It’s feeling both young and old, breaking hearts, and having your own heart shattered into a thousand pieces. This EP is about how the good girls die.”

“They Say” has this real authentic acoustic beginning that beautifully expands as the song progresses. Caroline, delivers a pristine flawless vocal performance that stays with you long after the music has faded . As with “They Say” , on the title track, How The Good Girls Die” , Caroline, crafts a mystical melodic gem that she carefully weaves melodies and vocals to deliver a magnificent musical composition.

With , “How The Good Girls Die,” Caroline pushes her creative boundaries further, promising a collection of tracks that offer an honest, unfiltered look into her world

Do yourself, a favor and get lost in the absolutely striking beauty of “How The Good Girls Die, From Caroline Romano

Dawning Drops Buzz Worthy New Single “Want That “

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We recently had the otherworldly opportunity to check out the new single “Want That” from Nashville based alt-pop solo act Dawning. You can listen to “Want That” on Spotify Here and Apple Music Here

We absolutely love it when we get music from an artist that we have never heard of. ( It feels like opening a mystery present on Christmas morning.

We definitely felt this excitement, when we listened to the new single “Want That” from alt-pop solo act Dawning ( and it did not disappoint)

The second of four songs slated for release, which will all culminate in an EP, “Want That “follows Dawning’s recent single ‘Blue‘ into a world of dark, atmospheric electronic-pop. The song is a meditation as a consumer in a consumerist culture within the wider context of global climate change.

There is this unbelievable force of energy that surrounds “Want That” from Dawning that is absolutely mesmerizing.

Embodying the voice of our ad-laced landscape, Want That’s synthesizer-laden chorus whispers to the listener “Tell me if you want that, tell me if you need that, cuz’ it’s all yours, this is all yours, take as much as you can.’ A perfect single for ruminative night-drives through the city, Want That is neither cynical nor optimistic. It merely asks the listener the question: do you want that?

Dawning is the ethereal and translucent work of Aaron Senor. Melding the hooks of pop, dreamlike shoegaze, and elements of electronic dance music. Senor, creates like a master painter , “Want That” is an absolute musical triumph.

Stop whatever you are doing and go get lost in the musical wonderment that is “Want That” from Dawning

Four Faces Deliver Dynamic New Single “Overnight”

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We recently had the opportunity to check out the dynamic new single “Overnight” from emerging Irish alt-rock band, Four Faces.

You can listen to “Overnight” Here .

Four Faces, is kicking off a series of releases for 2025. As the second track from their upcoming debut EP, ‘Overnight’ builds on the momentum of their late 2024 release, ‘Part Of You’, showcasing the band’s evolving alt-rock sound. ‘Overnight’ captures the signature energy of Four Faces 4-piece line-up while pushing their sonic boundaries with elements of modern pop production and explores the push and pull dynamic of two individuals navigating their relationship.


Four Faces – credit – Eoin Butterfield

Daniel Ffrench mentions that –
“Overnight in its earliest form has been an idea that we have played around with for many years. It all began when I introduced the main riff that is heard throughout the track, which we always jokingly referred to as our ‘Swedish House Mafia Riff’ because of  its offbeat and dance inspired vibe. It was only in the last year that the song finally began to take shape, evolving into a fully realized song. It has quickly become a favourite  for both us and our audience, due to its powerful energy and danceability”

The song was recorded and engineered at The Clinic Recording Studio by Cian Synnott and David Anthony Curley and mixed and mastered by Aidan Cunningham.

We were absolutely mesmerized by the melody on “Overnight” from Four Faces. Pristine vocals energize a well crafted song that makes you want to tap along and move your feet.

Do your music loving heart and soul a favor and check out “Overnight” From Four Faces

Bad Suns Deliver Single + Video For Mesmerizing Track “Communicating”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single and video for “Communicating “ via Epitaph Records from Pop-rock band, Bad Suns. You can listen to “Communicating” Here and you can watch the music video directed by Andy Deluca below:

Sparked by an idyllic drive through Los Angeles, frontman Christo Bowman aimed to mimic the feeling of a “quintessential SoCal moment”, sonically recreating that blissful feeling with whimsical synths, an intoxicating groove and funky rhythmic licks informed by the colorful sounds of Japanese City Pop.

Photo by : Sarah Eiseman

“It had been a cold and rainy couple of weeks in February but that morning, the clouds parted, and the sun emerged for a beautiful, sunny day in Los Angeles,” he explains. “There were palm trees all around me and I just wanted to write a song that captured that essence.”

Bad Suns have crafted a brilliant soul filled pop song with “Communicating “ that is positively radiant and creates instant happiness.

You can check out tour dates below as they will be hitting the road with Finneas

Bad Suns is Christo Bowman (vocals/guitar), Gavin Bennett (bass) & Miles Morris (drums)

Bad Suns Tour Dates

w/ Finneas

Feb. 13 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium

Feb. 14 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy

Feb. 16 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz

Feb. 18 – Silver Spring, MD – Fillmore Silver Spring

Feb. 19 – Philadelphia, PA – Fillmore Philadelphia

Feb. 21 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

Feb. 22 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount

Feb. 23 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount

Feb. 25 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit

Feb. 26 – Chicago, IL – Salt Shed

Feb. 27 – Minneapolis, MN – Fillmore Minneapolis

March 1 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium

March 2 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Union Event Center

March 4 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic

March 5 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Palladium

Happy Little Clouds Reach New Heights With Epically Awesome New Single “Higher”

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We recently had the extremely exciting opportunity to check out the new single “Higher” , from Boston-based rainbow-rust power-pop band – Happy Little Clouds.

You can listen to “Higher” Here

Happy Little Clouds, absolutely shines with their latest energetic pop gem “Higher”

From the moment we heard the first note on “Higher”we were positively mesmerized. We routinely get asked “What band should we be listening to? , Well look no further than Happy little Clouds”

Happy Little Clouds ( Jac Mestel , vocals and guitar, Jess Townsend, drums (World/
Inferno, Ketman), and Derek Bergstrom, bass (Broadcaster, Volcano Kings, founding
member of The Extreme Terror) generate a sound and a vibe that warms your soul and moves your feet.

Vocal perfection and melodic brilliance help propel “Higher” into the stratosphere. We have a feeling that Happy Little Clouds deliver an electrifying live show, that is absolutely stunning. If you’re looking for a good New Year’s resolution, it should be to make sure you fill your music loving soul with as much much music from Happy Little Clouds as possible.

Fake Dad Push All The Right Buttons With New Single “ON/OFF”

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We recently had the unbelievable opportunity to check out the new single “ON/OFF” from Fake Dad,  a Los Angeles based, NYC bred indie rock meets dream pop duo. 

You can listen to “ON/OFF” Here

We absolutely love the vibe on “ON/OFF , from Fake Dad. ( Andrea de Varona (she/her) and Josh Ford (he/him)

“ON/OFF” is a grunge classic full of bottled-up rage and sexual frustration. De Varona chronicles the moment-by-moment experience of being emotionally overwhelmed and overstimulated—bedrotting, serotonin burnout, doomscrolling, time bleeding together, laying on the bathroom floor trying to figure out if she’s feeling too much, or not enough.

“ON/OFF”features guitarist- Jeff Frantom (Bombshell)  

Formed in 2020, the duo met at a college party in the East Village and have been inseparable ever since. Melting their own unique artistic visions to build a shared sonic shorthand,Fake Dad create like master painters, carefully molding a sonic and melodic sound that is laced with catchy pop-laden hooks, crunchy, 90s inspired guitars, grooving bass lines, and buoyant synths. The end result is absolutely otherworldly and you can feel it completely on “ON/OFF”

De Varona says about the song, “This was written when I couldn’t get out of bed or leave my apartment. Time really bleeds together. When you ignore feelings for long enough you become overwhelmed by and disconnected from them—both numb and overactivated. This song compares that numbness to its direct companion, doomscrolling serotonin burnout. The modern world wants us to be overstimulated and ‘turned off,’ this song is me pleading to be turned back on. “

Fake Dad, without question is a duo you need to know and “ON/OFF” is a song you NEED to HEAR .

Caroline Romano Has Crafted A True Alt-Pop Gem With New Single “Pretty Boys”

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Photo- Hayley Mikel

We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the latest single “Pretty Boys” from Nashville based alt-pop singer Caroline Romano. You can listen to “Pretty Boys” Here

Caroline Romano, is consistently proving she is a rising force in the alt-pop scene . “Pretty Boys”, follows previous alt-pop gems “Body Bag,” “Doesn’t Matter,” and “Used By You,” 

Born from the raw emotions of heartbreak, “Pretty Boys” is both explosive and tender, capturing the duality of love and loss. The track begins with a stripped-back guitar and Caroline’s evocative vocals, building an intimate atmosphere before erupting into a powerful, urgent anthem that mirrors the intensity of heartbreak. As the chorus hits, the song transforms into a dizzying, energetic singalong, capturing the whirlwind of emotions that come with heartache.

Photo by Hayley Mikell

“‘Pretty Boys’ is my honest recount of heartbreak,” Caroline shares. “It’s like reading straight from my diary—a dramatic story with a terribly disappointing ending. The song is a cautionary tale about the blurry line between friendship and something more. Just because you’ve kissed him doesn’t mean you should do it again, and just because he looks at you that way doesn’t mean you’re the only one. ‘Pretty Boys’ feels like a high school crush at 22, with all the highs, lows, and semi-committal main characters. It’s a very specific experience, but one that’s universally relatable.”

At just 23-years-old, Nashville-based Caroline Romano has established herself as a versatile artist, effortlessly transitioning between misty-eyed ballads and fiery alt-rock anthems. Since the release of her 2022 debut album, Oddities and Prodigies, and her subsequent 2023 EP, A Brief Epic, Caroline has continued to come into her own as an artist, revealing new layers of her artistry with each release. 

Every song from Caroline Romano feels like a piece of brilliantly crafted art and, “Pretty Boys” is no exception. As we put “Pretty Boys” on repeat, we can’t wait to see what Caroline Romano does next.

sullvn Delivers Absolutely Devine New Single “Namaste”

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We had the absolute privilege to check out the new single “Namaste” from 10 member band sullvn. You can listen to “Namaste” Here

We are absolutely enthralled with sullvn and we are super psyched that they will be releasing their debut EP “Love and Lies” on November 8th . But wait There’s More…..

As a preview the band has released the 3rd single from the EP “Namaste” that is out now on all streaming platforms.

The EP will include the 3 previously released tracks and a new track “All About You.”

Namaste”  captures the tumultuous nature of a relationship that keeps drawing two people back together, reflecting the raw emotions and irresistible pull that can’t be ignored. It’s a powerful exploration of love’s chaos that resonates deeply and reminds us of the complexities we all face in our connections. It taps into the universal struggle of love and heartbreak. The song’s portrayal of a chaotic relationship speaks to anyone who has ever felt torn between desire and conflict. Its emotional depth and relatable themes can offer solace, understanding, and even catharsis, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of love.

“Namaste” from sullvn is a beautifully vibrant and authentic song that is absolute music to our ears. Do your music loving heart a favor and check out “Namaste” from sullvn.

Elisa May Has Crafted An Absolute Pop Gem With Latest Single “Black Lines”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the latest single “Black Lines” from Prague based alternative pop artist Elisa May . You can listen to the simply breathtaking new single “Black Lines” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here. You can also check out the video below

“Black Lines “ from Elisa May, details the feeling of being trapped in an unhealthy relationship, whether romantic, platonic or familial. We were immediately taken with “Black Lines” , the stunningly beautiful vocal approach coupled with a memorable and almost haunting melody make “Black Lines” from Elisa May , an unforgettable musical experience.

Offering listeners a raw and unfiltered glimpse into her world, Elisa May unveils her latest single “Black Lines.” Originally written when she was just 16 years old, alongside musician and producer Gregory Darling, the song delves into a time where Elisa May was in the midst of a toxic environment. The songwriter shares, “I was sixteen. I hated my parents. I hated my boyfriend. I hated everything and the world was unfair. Teen angst, baby.” 

Photo credit – Kiti Wullich

“Black Lines” details the feeling of being trapped in an unhealthy relationship, whether romantic, platonic or familial. As the protagonist finally escapes and breaks free from the illusion, she finds her voice, expressing what she couldn’t during years of manipulation, and stands up for herself.

Sonically, is where “Black Lines” truly shines, as it emits a haunting, yet healing atmosphere, as Elisa May’s soulful vocals meander over delicate strings, driving percussion and echoing piano. She chants, “You just brought war everywhere with you, every little wrong detail made you look blue, you hide your white lies in between the black lines, you sit all alone like a fucking psychopath.”

We are absolutely all in on Elisa May and her brilliantly beautiful new single “Black Lines” it’s a can’t miss.

Derek Smith And The Cosmic Vultures Soar In To The Stratosphere With Stunning New Single “Songbird”

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Artwork- Robert Smith

We recently had the remarkable opportunity to check out the new single “Songbird” from Boston rock band Derek Smith And The Cosmic Vultures. You can listen to “Songbird” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

The latest beautifully crafted single “Songbird” from Derek Smith And The Cosmic Vultures, is the fourth single of 2024 from the genre-expanding rock and roll band, following this summer’s electric spark plug “Tomorrow Morning,” and both are featured on the band’s forthcoming new album Opus, out in November. 

Every song that we get from Derek Smith And The Cosmic Vultures always seems to top the last one . We don’t how they do it but it is a truly magnificent feat. “Songbird” is no exception. Derek And The Cosmic Vultures have really created magic with “Songbird”

What is really so freaking cool about “Songbird is that the song is a true treasure trove of melodic wonderment. We hear some jam band elements, some 90’s Alt, county and as with every Derek Smith And The Cosmic Vultures tune there is always the perfect dose of good old rock and roll.

Photo courtesy of The Band

‘Songbird’ is about people,” Smith says. “We sing the same song. We follow similar patterns to each other. We have secrets, ideas, fears. We all eat, sleep, breathe, lie to ourselves, cry, laugh. We all question things. At least the smart ones do. And we are all going to walk that mile. That one last stroll to whatever our ultimate finale is supposed to be, or what we force it to be. Is it a rebirth? Is it a final resting place? We don’t know. So we make up a fantasy of what it could be.” 

The new single is a compass for compassion; it’s a way forward, through the highs and lows of life, softening the twists and turns and highlighting the good while snuffing out the bad. It’s a song rooted in 2024, but its sound rings out as timeless as echoes of ‘70s AM radio gold canvas a yearning spectrum that soars through the songs that shaped us before touching down in the modern day.  

“We should never stop squinting our eyes at life,” he adds. “We need to keep discovering and keep wondering. But we need to laugh on the way to the finish line. Because life is the perfect blend of ugliness and beauty.” 

“Songbird” was mixed at Berlin Audio Productions by Erik von Geldern and Don Schweihofer; mastered by David Locke; and engineered by von Geldern, Schweihofer, and Jon Chesbro, with Rob Countie on as engineering assistant. The single’s artwork was contributed by Smith’s father, accomplished painter and artist Robert Smith.

Derek Smith And The Cosmic Vultures are not only phenomenal musicians, but they also are world craft musical sculptors and with “Songbird” They have created an absolute beauty.

Derek Smith and the Cosmic Vultures are:

Derek Smith: Lead and Backing Vocals and Rhythm Acoustic Guitar

Michael Strakus: Lead and Rhythm Electric Guitar

Steve Constantino: Bass

Dalton DeLima: Drums

Justin Lopes: Keyboard

Elijah Woods Delivers Major Song Of The Summer Vibes With “ 2 thousand 10”

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We recently had the opportunity to check out the new blazing red hot new single “2 thousand 10” from Toronto-based multi platinum artist and producer elijah woods

You can listen to “2 thousand 10” Here

elijah woods is an artist who, is most definitely an artist on the rise and “2 thousand 10” might just be his best yet .

Blending nostalgic pop soundscapes with early aughts rock undertones, “2 thousand 10” is a relatable anthem about longing for the magical simplicity of being a kid. Lyrically and sonically, the song captures the essence of youthful freedom. 

“The song’s energetic undertones give it pace and relatability to anyone who has ever wanted to relive their best childhood memories,” says elijah. “We had so much fun writing this song and I think that feeling is reflected in the final version.”

With multiple platinum and gold records to his name, 4x JUNO Award nominations and a SOCAN 2022 Pop Award, elijah woods is an artist on the cusp of worldwide stardom. “2 thousand 10” arrives on the heels of elijah’s sold-out Asia tour. The tour, which wrapped up at the end of last month, saw elijah headline shows in major markets like Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore, open for Niall Horan in Jakarta, and perform at the Seoul Jazz Festival alongside acts like Lauv, Jeremy Zucker, and JP Saxe.

We constantly get asked about what we think the next big song or artist is going to be … We can honestly say that elijah woods is a special artist with an electrifying sound and style that is simply irresistible. We think elijah woods is just getting warmed up and we can’t wait to see what he does next .

Chloe Mayse Delivers Stunning New Single and Video “High School”

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Photo Credit- Jen Squires

We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new pride month single and video “High School” from Toronto queer alt-pop singer-songwriter Chloe Mayse.

You can listen to “High School” Here. You can also check out the gorgeous video below.

In 2014, she won a singing competition with her YouTube video submission, to sing backup for Tegan and Sara at the Juno Awards. This was a huge highlight in her life because Tegan and Sara are queer musicians that Chloe has always looked up to and they have influenced her style of music that she creates.

Chloe started singing at age 2 and picked up the guitar at the age of 10. She also plays piano, ukulele, and bass guitar. Chloe wrote her first song at 15 and the process of writing songs helped her figure out who she really was and how she identifies her sexuality.

As a teenager, she struggled with an undiagnosed mental health disorder and has mentioned that music saved her life. Chloe is a strong advocate for the queer community in Toronto and wants to bring awareness towards mental health issues that everyone may struggle with at some point in their life. 

We were absolutely taken by the otherworldly vocal performance by Chloe Mayse,on “High School” .

Chloe is super excited to share her new single and music video for “High School “out June 7th!

Here’s what she had to say about it: “High School “ is based on my experience of going to an all-girls catholic school. It’s my ‘coming out’ song- the one I wish I could have released at fifteen. I was closeted when it came to my sexuality, and wasn’t confident enough to tell my friend that I was in love with her. I had these intense feelings and at the same time was trying so hard to keep it all a secret from everyone. The music video shows what I was picturing in my mind- writing lyrics, thinking about this friend who I was completely in love with and how I would have wanted our interactions to go if I had been out in high school

High School” from Chloe Mayse is a well crafted authentic and genuine song that is melodically pleasing.This song is an absolute can’t miss.

Robotic Hawks Deliver Perfect , Poetic , Powerful 12 Minutes Of Greatness On New EP “All Business”

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Robotic Hawks play The Rock & Roll Rumble on Saturday, April 13

We recently had the distinct honor and privilege to check out the new EP “All Business “ from New Hampshire Power-Pop trio Robotic Hawks .

You can listen to “All Business “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here and on Bandcamp Here

From the moment we heard the first track “High Maintenance “ on the new EP “All Business “ we knew we were in for a world class music experience.

Photo credit- Kelly Davidson

“High Maintenance “ is a well crafted anthem that has an infectious melody and vibe that, will have you singing along long after the music has stopped. Robotic Hawks ( Tyler Pollard , vocals/bass , Shawn Doherty, guitars and Brian Sturk,drum) have this one of a kind musical energy that grabs your attention in every song , it is simply stunning.

“Cab Ride” which, is a cover of The Squeaky Fromme’s “Cab Ride,” a song near and dear to Pollard originally penned by his close longtime friend Damien Pratt. Robotic Hawks have such a unique groove unlike few bands we have heard in quite some time. It is because of this, that each song has so many special “ musical moments” that make the songs so memorable on “All Business “

“The song themes on All Business center around the need for self-awareness,” Pollard admits. “Sometimes you have to ask yourself the hard questions, whether you want to or not. Trust yourself before you can trust others. Gotta have faith, right?” 

We were absolutely captivated by every song on “All Business “ however, the one that really stood out to us and made us push repeat again and again is “Further” We listen to a lot of music here at The Whole Kameese ( We’re a music blog it’s what we do) But we can honestly say that “Further” is one of those special songs , that you remember for the rest of your music loving life. Flawless epic rock vocals coupled by an absolutely mesmerizing melodic jaw dropping groove.

So if “All Business “ was just a 3 song EP we would be grateful…… But as luck would have it there is a 4th track and it is straight up phenomenal……. Robotic Hawks deliver a sensational cover of Terence Trent D’Arby’s classic “Wishing Well “ and it is amazing.

Pollard says the Terence Trent D’Arby classic was one of those songs that just connected with him when he was younger, on a level like Paul Simon’s “50 Ways To Leave Your Lover”, Asia’s “Heat of the Moment”, or Simple Minds’ “Don’t You Forget About Me.” He calls it a “lightning strike” song for him when it came out, and now he gets to apply the alt-rock treatment to it.  

All Business is positioned well. Robotic Hawks, fresh off being named “Rising Star: New Hampshire” at the 2023 New England Music Awards, are set to perform at the 2024 Rock and Roll Rumble at The Middle East in Cambridge on Saturday, April 13. It marks a long-awaited return to the “World Series of Boston Rock” for Pollard, who in 1999 participated with his band the control group, which also featured Robotic Hawks’ producer Andrew James King. 

“All Business “ from Robotic Hawks is a collection of songs that we simply couldn’t get enough of.

We Are Absolutely Smitten With The Latest Single “Used By You” From Caroline Romano

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We recently had the opportunity to check out the new single “Used By You “ from rising Nashville based Alt-Pop singer Caroline Romano.

You can listen to “Used By You” from Caroline Romano Here.

Over the course of her last few singles – “girl in a china shop,” “Tell Her I Said Hi” and “Used by You” – Caroline has unveiled a bolder sound ( Which , we absolutely love) that blends her pop sensibilities with dynamic alt-rock instrumentation. But, as her sound continues to naturally evolve, her authentic storytelling never waivers. On “Used by You,” Caroline tells a relatable tale of unrequited love, set to a backdrop of melodic guitars and anthemic percussion. 

“If I had to describe ‘Used by You’ in one word, I think that word would be brutal,” says Caroline. “It’s unabashedly honest, blunt, and real. It’s a song about the side effects of unrequited admiration. It’s about loving someone to the point that you’re willing to move mountains for them, even when they’re not willing to move an inch for you. It’s the fear of losing someone so much, that’s you’d rather lose yourself just to keep them. In the name of being honest, no matter how terrifying, this is ‘Used by You.’”

At just 22-years-old, Nashville-based Caroline Romano has established herself as a versatile artist, effortlessly transitioning between misty-eyed ballads and fiery alt-rock anthems. Memorializing the highs and lows of young adulthood with her unflinchingly honest songwriting, Caroline has captured the hearts of fans and tastemakers alike.

Photo by : Kelsey Runge

Caroline Romano is an absolute musical tour de force, “Used By Use” is another absolute gem of a song from Caroline Romano, We can’t wait to see what she does next.

Chloe Star Kicks Of The New Year With An Absolutely Electrifying New Single “Happy Place”

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We are absolutely over the moon for the new single “Happy Place” from rising alt-pop act Chloe Star. We know that we are only 5 days into 2024 but if song is any indication of how the year is going to go.. we are in for a phenomenal year of music.

You can listen to “Happy Place” Here.

Bold, evocative, openly queer, and a fierce advocate for female empowerment, Chloe Star is the definition of a modern day rockstar. Her music is equally defiant, shamelessly blending elements of pop, rock, punk and hip-hop into a catchy sound that is wholly her own. Honestly it doesn’t get more real or authentic than Chloe Star and it shines brightly in her music.

Photo Credit: Jordan Keith

Following “Fool” and “Found My Peace,” her new electrifying single, “Happy Place,” is the third in her trilogy of confessional tracks that explore lingering effects of a toxic relationship: “I tell a story with these 3 songs — the heartbreak, the awakening, and the release,” she says.

“Fool” is about the breakdown of the relationship, “Found My Peace” sees Chloe emerging from the ashes of heartbreak, and, finally, “Happy Place” is about finding freedom in healing. About the song, Chloe elaborates, “it’s about that feeling of relief that you experience when you finally get comfortable being on your own. That’s ‘Happy Place.’”

Chloe Star is a Persian and indigenous singer, songwriter, visual artist, and tribal advocate. Growing up she split her time between Los Angeles and her family’s reservation in San Bernardino. With a childhood that was chaotic and often unstable, she found solace in journaling and writing poetry. She taught herself to play piano and guitar and soon started transforming her prose into lyrics.

We are all in with the amazing Chloe Star , who is an absolute star on the rise.

rlyblonde Keeps It Real With Stunning New Ballad “Girl In Your Story “

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Photo by: Caroline Safran (@carolinesafran)

rlyblonde – the project of Brooklyn-based multidisciplinary artist Carina Allen – reveals her new single, “Girl in Your Story,” out today (December 15th.)

You can listen to “Girl In Your Story “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here You can watch the video for .”Girl in Your Story below

Girl in Your Story” arrives hand-in-hand with a storybook music video that paints a picture of a young romantic lead longing for a romance that may or may not really exist. The video was produced and directed by rlyblonde through her new production company, HOT CREATIVE (@rlyhotcreative). The company serves as a home base for the artist’s photography practice, alongside her creative direction and production work for musicians in New York and Los Angeles.

The B-side to her electrifying alt-rock anthem “Your Angel,” “Girl in Your Story” uncovers a more sincere and tender side to rlyblonde’s artistry. While a sonic contrast to her previous work, the dreamy rock ballad continues to expand on the themes of identity, femininity, and romance that she has long explored in both her music, photography, and videography.

My artwork across various mediums has often played with ideas of female tropes and stereotypes. ‘Girl in Your Story’ continues that exploration of my own identity, through performance and by embodying these various characters,” she elaborates. “At the end of the day, behind every scorned woman is just a hopeless romantic. Nothing consumes quite like a crush…and while it was devastating to realize my tendency to fantasize was not limited to men, it was also a very affirming moment in my queer journey to realize I could imagine my life with another woman.”

It has been really exciting to watch and listen to many sides of rlyblonde . She is an artist who truly evolving right in front of eyes and, we are loving every minute of it . Check out “Girl In Your Story “ it is a beautiful musical composition that must be heard .

SkyDxddy Keeps It Real With New Single And Video For “7 Years”

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We recently checked out the stunning new single and video for “7 Years” from singer, verse-maker, and alt-pop artist SkyDxddy

You can check out “7 Years” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

You can out the video for “7 Years” below

“7 Years,” is a haunting slow burner with no-holds-barred rhymes which are deeply reflective and finds her veering between pain-stricken vulnerability and snarling rage.

Photo Credit- Samantha Levi Photography

Unafraid to share her story, SkyDxddy is a survivor of an assault that changed her life forever. After struggling with mental health issues, for which she was diagnosed as having PTSD, she finally found a way to start to heal from that trauma through her music by delivering filter-less anthems of empowerment. Sky shares, “Everyone always tells me it’s time to move on… move on from what exactly? Everywhere I go I’m triggered at least four times a day. Everywhere I go I hear their name, everywhere I go my PTSD anxiety and depression follows me. This doesn’t mean I’m not happy, I’m living my dream. My true self gets to flourish and let other survivors know that they are not alone. I have moved on. And I’m using every ounce of power I’ve obtained to make sure people know not to fuck with me or my Traumacore family.

When asked for her definition of Traumacore she explains, “Traumacore is music therapy. It’s a coping mechanism for anyone who’s dealt with trauma and struggles with their mental health. For those hurting so deeply inside that they need a cathartic release and find it within music that contains hard-hitting lyrics that allow the listener to feel all of the emotions that come from the abuse and trauma that they’ve suffered. It’s a community of people who are understanding, empathetic, and considerate of one another. It’s one big chosen family”.

She paved the way for her success using TikTok as a way to share her music and story and has engaged over 1.4 million followers to date. As an independent artist her song releases, “Triggered” (2019), “Hold Me” (2021), “Monsters Ink” (2021), “Battlefield” (2022), and “Don’t Talk About It” (2023) have collectively racked up over 41 million streams worldwide. Her latest song, “Pretty Distraction” released in September 2023, has already garnered over 3 million streams worldwide and counting.

The truth is We need more artist like SkyDxddy. She speaks an honest and authentic truth, that is relatable and real . “7 Years” is an absolute must listen.

Caroline Romano Delivers Fiery New Single “Tell Her I Say Hi”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single “Tell Her I Said Hi”from Nashville-based alt-pop sensation Caroline Romano.

You can listen to “Tell Her I Say Hi” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

“Tell Her I Said Hi” is a cathartic release of anger packaged into a wholly addictive alt-rock anthem. Equal parts tender and tenacious, Caroline bravely navigates the messy emotions that arise after a transformative heartbreak.

“‘Tell Her I Said Hi’ is me closing the final chapter on a particular heartbreak I’ve been writing about for a while,” she explains. “I wrote this song after finding out he had already moved on with someone else just days after we broke up. I was thinking about it nonstop, playing out different scenarios in my head about what I’d say to him if I ever saw him again, and ‘tell her I said hi’ is the line that came to mind. There’s a finality to that sentence that’s both heartbreaking and cathartic. The song itself is jealous, angry, pretty, and exhausting, all at once, much like the ending of our relationship.”

We are once again in complete awe of Caroline Romano, she continues to deliver breathtaking music . “Tell Her I said Hi “ is a well written alt pop gem.

Allow Us To Introduce You To Your New Favorite EP.. “Girl Of Your Dreams “ From Your New Favorite Artist..Maddie Regent

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Photo Credit- Cade Hoppe

We are not even going to try and hide it… We are super duper pumped for the new EP “Girl Of Your Dreams” from electrifying Alt-Pop artist Maddie Regent .

You can listen to “Girl Of Your Dreams “ Here

Right from jump… “Girl Of Your Dreams “ from Maddie Regent had us moving and shaking , our office suddenly felt like a dance club . The opening track “Buy Me A Drink”is such an electrifying dance track full of so much energy, that it could power a small town.

Throughout the amazing eight tracks on “Girl Of Your Dreams” you are taken on the ultimate electro-pop experience.

Maddie’s dreamy vocals dance atop driving electronic beats and glittery synths. She effortlessly balances heart-wrenching lyricism with uplifting pop melodies. The EP, which was produced by her boyfriend and close collaborator Cade Hoppe, includes 5 previously released singles and 3 brand new songs: “Buy Her a Drink,” “Prettiest Please,” and “Hiding Place”

Photo Credit-Cade Hoppe

“Girl of your Dreams’ is about how bad love conditions you to believe you’re not worthy of good love… so you can’t help but ruin it,” says Maddie. “It’s a cycle of toxic relationships — both with others and yourself.”

“Prettiest Please” really shines a much deserved spotlight on Maddie’s incredible and flawless vocals- Bravo

Hailing from Toronto and now based in New York City, Maddie first started making music at the age of 12. As an introverted child, music became her tool to express herself and work through her anxieties, helping her to find power in her vulnerability. After years of honing her sound, she’s found the perfect balance between escapist pop bops and raw, honest songwriting.

“Girl Of My Dreams “ is one of those EP’s that were made to be on constant repeat. Standouts include “Butterflies “ , “Side FX “ (The lyrics on “Side FX “ are freaking brilliant “ )

When we do a review we like to pick our favorite track . However, Maddie has made it tough because, every song is so good. But, if we had to pick it would be “Hiding Place” We can’t quite put our finger on it but this song is magical. We love the arrangement on “Hiding Place “ the music is perfectly placed and really lets Maddie’s voice shine .

It’s always so fun to find an artist that reminds us why we love music so much, for us Maddie Regent is that artist and, “Girl Of Your Dreams” is the kind of EP you want to share with everyone you know.