Album #1: Blush by Maya Hawke

Favorite Song: “Menace”

Notes: This was a suggestion from fellow Sting Senior writer, Megan Zimmer. The lyricism in Blush is poetic and allows Hawke to let her emotions run free. The album reminds me of other artists such as Fiona Apple, Suki Waterhouse, and Mazzy Star. The soft vocals mixed with alternative instrumentals create a beautiful setting for Hawke to be truly vulnerable and to get her message across. Albums like this are truly perfect in my eyes, and I do wish this album had received more attention.

Album #2: Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) by Role Model

Favorite Song: “Writing’s On The Wall”

Notes: Role Model is one of America’s top rising artists, trending on sites like TikTok and Instagram. I had never heard of Role Model before until I saw him on Saturday Night Live, and his style truly caught my attention. He reminds me a lot of another artist that I have reviewed before named Sombr, with a more country twist to it. I was deeply surprised to learn that Role Model was previously a rapper, since the new country style seemed to come so effortlessly to him. With all of that being said, this album is just simply okay in my opinion. There’s nothing special about this that makes it stand out to me, but it’s not a bad album either. It’s just not my cup of tea, but I can definitely understand why others like him so much and why he got so popular out of nowhere.

Album #3: The Sound Of You Laughing by ThxSoMch

Favorite Song: “Keep It To Yourself”

Notes: The Sound Of You Laughing is ThxSoMch’s debut album, and it is incredibly underrated. This album explores subjects like relationships, mental health, and isolation from the real world. I enjoyed the distorted rock sound this album produces. It’s easy to be able to connect with the artist’s emotions, as he doesn’t hold back at all from making this album as raw as possible. I highly recommend this album.