Bops in unexpected places [single reviews]

By Ryan G

Alaina Cross – “Backstabber”: I was told in no uncertain terms by Amber Stoneman at Nashville Unsigned that I needed to listen to this song, because it’s a “monster hit.” Can’t say I disagree, Amber. This song was recently featured on CMT’s “Music City.” Alternative pop on Country Music Television? The lines between genres keep getting more and more blurry, and I’m here for it. This song was obviously written with TV and film placement in mind, and I think it’s ready for the major networks. Alaina projects a “badass with class” image that comes forth in this song.

Effee – “I Wish”: The self-proclaimed sad pop artist continues to become more polished, and “I Wish” is the latest bop from the alter-ego of Fran Litterski. What we have here is a song that comes across as less dramatic and more matter of fact. There are tinges of resignation in both the tone and the lyrics, but by the end of the track Effee seems to be in a place of acceptance—evidenced by the fun climax and the driving beat. Effee is planting herself among the crop of rising alternative pop singers while digging in deeper on her distinct quirks.

Del & the Wave – “Love Line”: We could all could use a feel-good, pop-rock jam for these wintry days (Columbus could see 8 inches of snow on Saturday). This bright single would be a home on a playlist alongside the happier tunes of the 90s, as well as some of the more upbeat pop-punk tunes of my teenage years (Relient K, Hawk Nelson, I’m looking at you). Sometimes the best way to cope with angst is to write happy songs, and Del and the Wave has figured that out. Fake it til you make it! Feeling follows action.

Psychedelic Porn Crumpets – “Keen For Kick Ons?”: I would be lying if I said I didn’t listen this song mostly because of the band name. Marketing, people. Managed by Arctic Monkeys’ team, the band is a jangly mix of post-punk and driving indie rock. This song is whimsical and doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s the right amount of catchiness mixed with weird. I could see this band as soon hitting the road with Alt-J or Glass Animals as I could with their big brothers in Arctic Monkeys.

Charlotte Adigery – “High Lights”: You must watch this music video. Fortunately, the male pattern baldness gene doesn’t seem to run in my family, so I won’t have to worry too much about the subject in this song. Who woulda thought “I love synthetic wigs a lot” would be one of the most ear catching lines in early 2019? Not this guy. This music video could be a meme—it almost feels insulting to call it that, given how well this songwriting and video were pulled off. I’m confused as to exactly why I like this alternative-pop/R&B track is so alluring, but I guess I’ll just have to go with it. Pay attention though, there’s definitely more to the message than meets the eye (ear). It’s the lead single from an EP, Zandoli, that releases February 8th on DEEWEE.

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