Once again, the theme for this round-up isn’t a genre. It starts with hip-hop, then moves to hyperpop, then indie pop. That being said, what ties it together is the way that each of them uses lyricism to deliver a deep sense of vulnerability in one’s emotions. Check em out!
Breezy BRG – It’s ok I’m ok
Breezy BRG stands out with her hip-hop and R&B base with pop influences to craft captivating hooks, and ‘It’s ok I’m ok’ is no outlier. This track has a quick rhythm in its percussion with trap influences, and the vocals jump between being a punchy rap and a more rhythmic, breathy sound. Every part of the production, rhythm, and melody sounds meticulously crafted, and the diverse styles of vocal delivery show a lot of prowess. Through this range of vocal styles, the delivery remains on point in a way that stands out. From start to finish, this track sounds like it came from a big-name artist. In terms of lyrics, this track gets into what it’s like having to be strong while dealing with inner struggle. It explores how it feels to deal with deep emotions and hate from others, all while fighting forward to achieve one’s own dreams and confidence.
Laylo!! – SOBER
‘SOBER’ uses hyperpop as its musical basis with a bit of a math rock guitar influence to deliver an exciting rush of sound. That being said, it stands out with the way the vocals are produced and delivered. There’s a punchy edge, and though they fit in the sound, the emotion that comes through them is raw and emotional. The guitars in this track are absolutely phenomenal. The quick fingerpicking is intricate and exciting, with the brighter tones really jumping out in the sound. They even rush ahead of the drums in terms of pacing and rhythm, but the drums do well at guiding that rhythm and giving them a punch to build off of. This track is a shorter cut at 2 minutes and 8 seconds, but it does its job at delivering an exciting rush for that timeframe. Lyrically, ‘SOBER’ explores ideas such as being stuck in addiction and wanting to get closure from a toxic relationship while feeling stuck in that as well.
Laeky – caller waiting
‘caller waiting’ shifts the tone to a more moderate, yet still excitable, tempo with a gorgeous, smooth vocal delivery. This track has an indie pop basis to it, with its synthy instrumentation, catchy melodies, and lively chorus. It’s wrapped up with slower verses that give just a bit of a somber undertone. However, Leaky took two folk tracks she was working on, mixed them into one, and switched to this genre and vibe. That takes so much ingenuity: a blend together and a genre switch. The lyrical hooks land really well. Also, the shift from acoustic guitar in the verses to the piano build, to the more electronic chorus- this track is amazing at making different sounds work together. Also, like the rest of the music in this round-up, the production gives wondrous clarity. Lyrically, ‘caller waiting’ seems to capture a narrative of someone holed up in their room, wanting that deep connection with another, but struggling to make that leap.
Written by Sage Plapp
Cover image by Burak The Weekender
