This edition of LITM Pop Picks looks at tracks that are haunting to tracks that will make for heartbreak anthems. The list features artists Ivofonic, E.Z.O., Sophia Kaloustian, and more.
Ivofonic - Real
Starting off with eerie synth notes which are then layered with equally haunting vocals, Ivofonic’s ‘Real’ looks at the lines between reality and illusion, which sometimes gets blurred. The synthpop track has a dreamy soundscape that complements the concept of illusions in the song. The song feels grand, with its shifting tones that seem to be drawn from the history of synthwave music. The repeated singing of “Ask me how I feel / I don’t think I’m real” emphasises that feeling of not knowing what’s real and what’s not. The song has a theatrical feel to it, an atmosphere that you will give into completely for the entirety of the 3:18 minutes.
E.Z.O. - HDYL
A blend of R&B, Afrobeat, and hip-hop, ‘HDYL’ by E.Z.O. is the kind of song that you can’t help but move to. The song, which is short for ‘How Deep is Your Love’ has a rhythm that is simply infectious, with its jumpy, electric vibe. Lyrically, the song is very witty, staying true to Afro style music. The vocals are simple, groovy, making the song an automatic crowd pleaser, where everyone will be singing along to it. The song shares similarities with Amaarae’s music, owing to the Afrobeat influences. An instant mood lifter, the track is sure to put a smile on your face.
Sophia Kaloustian - slow dancing, slow destruction
Vulnerability at its best, Sophia Kaloustian’s ‘slow dancing, slow destruction’ is one that deserves a place among your playlist of heartbreak anthems. The song has the ingredients that are also present in Olivia Odrigo’s music, the pop elements that make a heartbreak song an anthem for young people. "Your smile lines burn in my brain / Now tainted by insults I can’t escape” showcase how when a relationship ends badly, all the good gets overpowered by the disrespect in the end. The bridge at 2:26 minutes heightens the tension which eventually leads to an explosive end to the song. Raw, vulnerable lyrics along with a composition that perfectly complements the songwriting, this song is one for all the heartbroken people out there.
Shab - Dirty
Sultry, sensual music at its best, Shab’s ‘Dirty’ blends Middle Eastern influences with modern pop to create a highly energetic, fast paced track that will make the temperatures rise wherever it plays. The infectious rhythm along with the bold lyrics can make just about anyone feel super confident about themselves. With its beats the song is automatically one for the dancefloors. The song bears the flag for feeling unapologetic, completely owning one’s body and the freedom to express one’s desire, thus, making the track an anthem for empowerment. If you’re dancing at the club or by yourself in your house, make sure to play this track to liven up your mood.
Messy Eater - On The Right Track
Muffled vocals paired with groovy beats, ‘On The Right Track’ by Messy Eater feels like living the high life in a posh city. There is a lazy, laid-back vibe about the song which along with the occasional trumpet sound and percussions gives the tune a refreshed appearance. Lyrically the song deals with going with the flow when it comes to life – not stressing about things and trusting them to happen in their own time. The lyrics “Damn, I think I missed my turning / Let’s put that down as learning” talks about looking at things as lessons instead of failures. A fresh sound with a sense of easy optimism, this song needs to be listened to now more than ever, where everyone seems so into the hustle culture.
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