Daisy Grenade – “Taste”

[Fueled by Ramen/DCD2; 2024]

Sabrina Carpenter’s pop single “Taste” was released in August 2024 and instantly became an earworm. While different artists released many alternative covers, one pop-rock cover sticks out. “Power-punk bubble-grunge band” Daisy Grenade released their charged cover of “Taste” four months after the original came out, and it’s just as much of an earworm as Carpenter’s version. Singing duo Dani Nigro and Keaton Whittaker grab their microphones by the throat as they seamlessly take on Carpenter’s lyrics with their powerful, soaring vocals. The guitars are heavier, driving the song into a faster tempo. Mixed with crashing drum fills, Daisy Grenade turns the song from a swaying, melodic tune into a forceful head-banger. Welcome back “Punk Goes Pop!”

• By Brooke Phillips, Programming Director

Marina Satti – “MIXTAPE”

Greek singer Marina Satti’s 2024 album P.O.P. is one of the year’s most underrated gems. The electronic pop album is stuffed beyond containment with Greek, Arabic and Balkan influences synthesized through electronic, experimental production. The crowning achievement on P.O.P. is “MIXTAPE,” Satti’s 10-minute-plus track bringing in a handful of collaborators. “MIXTAPE” careens through beats at the speed of light. Backed by percussive drill beats and dripping with autotune effects, it’s a fantastic example of how artists are pushing the boundaries of pop music right now. The song is oversaturated and overstimulating, and at no point will you know what’s coming next. Put simply: it’s like nothing I’ve ever heard before.

• By Julia Weber, Editorial Director

The Linda Lindas – “Don’t Think”

Earlier this year, I was excited for The Linda Lindas’ new album No Obligation to be released after previously listening to released tracks like “Resolution/Revolution.” My favorite song off this album is by far “Don’t Think.” I have listened to it repeatedly since the album was released and enjoyed how upbeat and carefree the lyrics are, as well as how the sound matches that vibe. The song is about not listening to what others care about and just being yourself. I really like the quick and fun bass that fills in the verses as well as the chorus. I think the chorus is very catchy and it’s easy to enjoy the simple yet captivating vocals. The instrumental bridge has a fun chant and melody along with a classic but enjoyable drum beat. Overall, “Don’t Think” is the perfect blend of lively instrumentals and meaningful lyrics, making it a refreshing and easygoing listen.

• August Paree, Contributor

Provoker – “Demon Compass”

[YEAR0001; 2023]

Provoker has quickly become a fall and winter favorite of mine. I’ve listened to the post-punk band here and there since my freshman year, starting with “Rose In A Glass.” Now, I just can’t stop listening. In October, Provoker released the deluxe version of their 2023 album, Demon Compass. This album features many of my favorites, and introduces four remixes and two new tracks – one of which being “Demon Compass.” No strangers to synth or bass guitar, Provoker creates the perfect moody melodies for roaming campus in the cold. As I’m not a fan of winter, the lyrics, “Slog through the city every day / Catch a scent then I dissipate / I don’t wanna go back to that place,” enhance the perfection of this song for the season. In my opinion, Lead singer Christian Crow Petty conveys gloominess like nobody else. 

• Anna Parasson, Contributor

Twenty One Pilots – “Next Semester”

[Fueled by Ramen; 2024]

Twenty One Pilots released the highly anticipated single “Next Semester” on March 27, 2024. This was the second single released to advertise their sixth full length studio album Clancy, which came out in May. This song was a curveball compared to the rest of the tracks released before the album was dropped, being in a completely different musical genre than the others. This track had elements of alt-rock and pop punk, differing largely from the rest of their discography in general. This genre switch was no mistake though, as it actually has a lot to do with the background behind the song. The lead singer of Twenty One Pilots, Tyler Joseph, wrote this song as a reflection on his teen years, and the struggles of mental health that he faced during this time. At the peak of his health struggles, he was inspired by many alt-rock groups and pop-punk artists. This deep connection to the genre was brought to the surface, with the vastly different instrumentation found in “Next Semester.”

• Quinn Carmicheal, Contributor

Sarah Kinsley – “Sublime”

[Verve Forecast; 2024]

Sarah Kinsley is a fairly new singer-songwriter on the scene who has been releasing EPs since 2020, but only recently debuted with her 2024 album Escaper. “Sublime” is one of the most notable and simply magical tracks off this album. Kinsley’s sound is poppy and she experiments with reverb that gives her a distinct light and airy sound. This track in particular is heavily reminiscent of some of Grimes’ early works, as both artists lean into an avant-garde and dreamy vibe with their composition. For those who yearn for a revival of the unmistakable and mystical sound of Grimes’ 2012 album Visions, Kinsley is worth a listen. At the very least, “Sublime” will undoubtedly capture this essence and be right up your alley if you’re a fanatic for all things “indie-electro-dreamy-fantastical” pop. The song has themes of desire, hope, and expresses the challenges of change. It’s the kind of song that you can envision yourself dancing to alone in your room, spinning aimlessly and soaking up the almost supernatural feel of the instrumental and vocals. As an avid Grimes fan, I certainly will be taking a trip down Kinsley’s discography. 

• Sage Spirk, Contributor