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Long Neck Releases The Introspective “Soft Animal”
Introspection, self deprecation and sadness are the words of the day for our review of Long Neck’s latest full length album, “Soft Animal.” It’s the fourth album from the folk band, and it continues the bands signature style of down-to-earth folk music that also speaks out on darker themes.
Folk music is a breeding ground for discussion and commentary on deeper topics. The genre is predicated on its songwriting, with simpler arrangements and songs that are meant to mean something. This is something Lily Mastodimos and her band are more than aware of. To this end, “Soft Animal,” takes full advantage of this, sending a strong message on self worth.
The song “Ants,” for example opens with the lines “If I can’t put a pen to paper, what good am I.” It’s a shockingly common sentiment among people in the modern era, where self worth is tied to superficial ideas of what you’ve accomplished. It leaves many people feeling boxed in and depressed, and the songs address this. If anything, “Soft Animal,” is incredibly relatable for many people.
This sentiment is echoed by other songs like opening track “Evergreen,” where the singer bemoans her inaction and how she’s wasting precious time. But between it all, moments of levity are added in. In “Ants,” lines like “I need to get out of this room, I need the space to follow through,” show that sometimes all you need is a bit of room to breathe and explore yourself.
As with many folk albums, the songwriting is key to whether a folk album lands or not, and we’re happy to say that “Soft Animal,” is excellent in this regard. It makes fantastic use of its genre to provide a spectacle of storytelling. Every song contains musical choices that carry weight and make strong use of the limited sound of folk albums.
Singer Lily Mastrodimos’ also carries a lot of the album, with her voice carrying powerful emotional gravitas in every line. The emotion of every song comes through, from the tired and weary tones of “Gardener,” to the celebratory, joyful vibes of the title track “Soft Animal,” and even the angrier takes of “558,” which adds harsh synths to the mix.
“Soft Animal,” is a strong showing for Long Neck, with brilliant use of their medium to produce a lovely little album. Echoing our sentiment from earlier, “Soft Animal,” is painfully relatable, especially for anyone who’s ever been unsure of themselves. It touches on topics with care and understanding, and on top of that it just sounds great. We can’t wait for what the band comes up with next.
https://longnecklass.bandcamp.com/
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Fiery And Unapologetic: Pamela Hopkins “Burn It Down”
Pamela Hopkins’ new single “Burn It Down” is a fiery and unapologetic anthem of empowerment that takes the listener through an emotional journey of betrayal and reclamation. With co-writers Dave Lenahan and Scott Barrier, Hopkins crafts a narrative that diverges from the typical revenge tale by focusing on the protagonist’s decision to seek liberation rather than retribution.
The song starts with a somber acknowledgment of trust broken by both a partner and a friend, setting the emotional tone for the track. Hopkins’ lyrics are direct and vivid, painting a picture of the protagonist’s internal struggle before she chooses to rise above the ashes of her past. The phrase “throwing a match on kerosene” is a striking metaphor that encapsulates the explosive nature of betrayal and the drastic emotional consequences it entails. However, instead of wallowing in revenge, the protagonist claims her power back by letting go of what once was, symbolized by the metaphorical burning of the life she built with her partner.
Musically, “Burn It Down” features Hopkins’ signature blend of country grit and emotional depth. Her vocal delivery is compelling, capturing the rawness of the song’s theme with a blend of anger, sadness, and eventual resolve. The instrumentation complements the narrative, with a driving rhythm that mirrors the protagonist’s journey from shock and anger to empowerment. The chorus is particularly impactful, with its catchy and defiant lines that echo the protagonist’s determination to take control of her fate: “Bet your ass I’m goin’ out in a blaze.”
Hopkins’ performance in “Burn It Down” is a testament to her skill as both a vocalist and a storyteller. She navigates the song’s emotional complexity with grace, allowing listeners to feel the protagonist’s pain and her subsequent empowerment. The song’s bridge is a highlight, as it portrays a sense of closure and finality, culminating in the protagonist watching her past go up in flames, not with regret but with a sense of pride and self-worth.
What sets “Burn It Down” apart from other songs in the revenge genre is its emphasis on personal strength and the idea of starting anew. The protagonist isn’t looking for revenge in the traditional sense; she’s seeking a clean slate, a chance to rebuild without the shadows of her past holding her back. This theme is universal and resonates with anyone who has faced betrayal and found the strength to move forward.
Pamela Hopkins continues to establish herself as a significant force in the country music scene with this release. Her ability to infuse personal experience and emotional storytelling into her music allows her to connect deeply with her audience. “Burn It Down” is a powerful addition to her discography, showcasing her vocal prowess and her knack for crafting songs that are both relatable and cathartic.
In summary, “Burn It Down” is more than just a song about betrayal; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever had to pick up the pieces and find strength in the aftermath of a broken relationship. Through her storytelling and commanding vocals, Pamela Hopkins delivers a song that is both a personal catharsis and a rallying cry for empowerment.
-Frank Fantina
Featured
Staying Positive While Looking for a Kidney: The Inspiring Journey of ATown
In the spotlight of social media, ATown has captivated audiences with his unique talent—a birdcall that has become synonymous with his brand. Known not only for his distinctive sound but also for his connections with big names like Meek Mill and Snoop Dogg, ATown once basked in the glow of fame and fortune. However, life took an unexpected turn, and the Instagram celebrity now finds himself in a challenging battle for his health, desperately searching for a kidney.
Despite the gravity of his situation, ATown has chosen to focus on the silver linings rather than succumb to despair. His resilience and positivity are truly inspiring. Rather than retreating from the public eye, ATown is actively engaging with his fans and continuing to create music. His latest single, “Konnichiwa,” has garnered over 50,000 views on YouTube, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with his audience, even in tough times.
ATown’s journey is a testament to the power of positivity and the human spirit. Instead of allowing his health struggles to define him, he remains proactive in his search for a kidney while continuing to pursue his passion for music. By sharing his experiences through social media, he not only raises awareness about organ donation but also inspires others who may be facing similar challenges.
His ability to maintain a positive outlook has resonated with many of his fans, who admire his strength and determination. Through his posts, ATown often reminds his followers to cherish their health and support one another, creating a community of encouragement and love.
For ATown, music has become more than just a career; it’s a form of therapy. Each song he releases serves as an expression of his emotions and a way to cope with the uncertainty surrounding his health. His fans have rallied around him, providing support and sharing his music to help spread the word about his journey.
Through his artistry, ATown continues to show that creativity can thrive even in adversity. His latest tracks not only entertain but also empower, reflecting his journey and the hope that accompanies it. Whether he’s collaborating with fellow artists or working on solo projects, ATown’s music remains a beacon of hope and resilience.
