Andy's Songs of the North Playlist Reviews - November 2023
Reviews by: Andy Ellis, Writer @andysmileyjay
Edited by: Andrew Perrizo, owner/editor @PlaylistTC
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It’s November and time for some more original Minnesota music. As we get used to fluctuating weather that will supposedly be more consistently cold, I was able to find 10 more original songs from our great Northern land of artists. And no worries to the Scrooges and Grinches out there, for right now, there is no Christmas or Holiday music on this playlist.
As always, if you hear a song you like remember to check the artist out live and buy their merchandise. It’s the best way to keep our lovely independent music scene alive.
Check out the playlist embedded below, tell your friends, and lets show the world the music being made in Minnesota.
Devon Worley Band “Light It Up”
This isn’t just a song, but a mission statement of what happens when the Devon Worley Band takes the stage. Its raw, no-frills rock sound assures you they’re dead serious about having a good time, and they’re old school about it - pre-recorded tracks need not apply. Lighting it up and burning it down is the only way they know how to approach music.”
Durry “Who’s Laughing Now”
What’s more satisfying than living than how you want despite being told you’ll regret it or it’s not reasonable? Overwhelmingly satisfying if you go by Durry’s viral anthem that’s filled with pop-punk and alternative rock-influenced catchiness, and a vocal performance that just won’t let go once it has a hold of you. Your bank account may not be full, but your smile each day will be.”
Adam Azre’al “For The First Time”
His voice has this weight to it that feels like it was forged out of an old orchestra hall. It reminds me a lot of Josh Groban, and his voice lends itself beautifully to this song about struggle and hope. It’s very spiritual.
Corzine “U MAKE ME NERVOUS”
One of the things I love about pop-punk is it doesn’t lose that in-your-face attitude of its parent genre. Corzine’s newest release “U MAKE ME NERVOUS” is a great example of that. There’s no question as to how she’s feeling, and unfortunately it appears to be mix of battling emotions.
Joyann Parker “Closing Someone Else’s Blinds”
When Parker sings, if you cannot feel whatever emotion comes out of her then you’re likely not of the human species. Even before I know what the song is about I can feel the darkness of her mood in the lyrics she sings. It’s a heartbreaking situation, but joyfully moving to listen to.
Mac Turner “Movies”
The chorus got me from the first listen. In the verses Turner holds nothing back in talking about the life he’s fighting every day to have. When he gets to the chorus the frustration he evokes with his delivery of those lyrics is undeniably powerful.
Lumari “In Waves”
The song has this hazy dream state with just the right amount of danger. The singer’s tone is steady and gives off its own calming feel that I willingly followed through the song. Before I knew it I was on the other side of the dream, ready to go right back in.
Killed by Kiwis “change my name”
The vocal performance is of someone whose life seems to be in a constant state of chaos. Especially in the verses she appears to have grown used to it, but she’s doing everything she can to hold onto that one part of her life she has control over. The meaty hard rock production helps paint her determination to keep that part of her intact and familiar.
Annie Fitzgerald “What About Now”
This song is a direct hit. It transports me into Fitzgerald’s perspective as she’s moving on from a major life event, both literally driving through town, and figuratively as she repeats the situation in her head. Her gentle vocals and the minimalist production combine to paint us this intimate moment she’s having with herself.
NATL PARK SRVC “Superstition”
With lyrics that mention Mephistopheles and Socrates, I can’t not come back to this song. The crystal clear vocals that are a cool melodic drone that reminds me of UK bands such as White Lies with a very danceable melody. Whatever the music is saying, I agree.
