This edition of LITM Pop Picks looks at songs that capture unique perspectives and experiences, from being unable to leave a toxic connection to feeling overlooked in all your efforts and contributions. The list features Casey McQuillen, Mango In Euphoria, Aleksandra Picariello, and more.
Casey McQuillen - Better Than This
Recounting an experience that most of us go through, ‘Better Than This’ by Casey McQuillen looks at the decision of moving places that we take in hope of something better. Evoking radiance in every note, the song is explosive in its depth, and McQuillen's vocals play a massive role in evoking that depth. Starting off softly with piano notes, the song then moves onto swelling cathartic choruses that will manage to have its hooks deep in your mind. If you are in a place in life where you are dreaming and hoping for something, someplace different, then this song will make you feel seen and heard.
Mango In Euphoria - Mission
80s electronic beats greeting you in the very first second of the song, ‘Mission’ by Mango In Euphoria is as electrifying as a song can possibly get. An anthem for the queer community, the track with its pulsating beats, sultry, mysterious layered vocals, and hypnotic synths, is sure to get just about anyone moving and swaying to its infectious rhythms. Imagine neon lights washing all over you while you hold flirty eye contact with someone, because that is exactly what this song feels like. Brimming with energy, boldness, and sensuality, this song will be a sure hit on any and every dance floor.
Aleksandra Picariello - Don’t Fly Away
Reminding us of those toxic connections that we found ourselves trapped in, ‘Don’t Fly Away’ by Aleksandra Picariello feels like a soundtrack to a film about such confusing circumstances. The song moves through phases, as it moves from a floaty and light chorus piece to a rap section and then back again. These shifts mirror the way such toxic relationships move, a cycle of chaotic and gentle and nice moments. Vulnerable, raw, and honest, this song, along with paying close attention to what it's saying, will have you wanting to memorise the rap and sing along to it whenever you are by yourself.
Allie Crummy - This House
Despite having to perhaps call many places our home, there is always that one place that is closest to our hearts, and ‘This House’ by Allie Crummy is all about that special place. The song weaves a story that’s supported by warm instrumentation involving short guitar riffs and subtle percussion. Crummy’s vocals heighten the sense of warmth in the song, as they beautifully paint the picture of her life in the place she’s called home for a long time. The song is sure to get a tear to roll down your cheeks as you think of that one home among the many homes you’ve called your own.
Matt DeAngelis - I’m Just The Keyboard Player
Capturing a unique perspective, ‘I’m Just The Keyboard Player’ by Matt DeAngelis weaves the story of a keyboardist who feels undervalued. The song acts as a metaphor for all those people who work in the background and often don’t get seen or appreciated for their work, but they continue with what they do because they know their importance even if others don’t. Starting off with gentle, sombre piano notes, the song then moves into a layered arrangement that feels theatrical. DeAngelis’ vocals shine amidst the intense musical arrangement of the song. A peek through a different lens, this song lends a voice to all those people whose efforts go overlooked in a musically sophisticated manner.
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