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Arrows in Action build fan connection during sold out Lakewood show
The small room was packed wall to wall with fans. The pre-show playlist was turned off, signaling the band was about to take the stage. The music changes to the opening notes of the first song, and you can feel the excitement radiating off of the crowd. Heads turn towards the door, just waiting for the band to emerge.
Alternative rock band Arrows in Action played a sold out show at Mahall’s in Lakewood, OH on July 23 as part of the Built To Last summer tour. This tour follows the release of the band’s debut album Built To Last. This tour was their first full North American headlining tour and this show was the first stop of the tour to sell out, making it even more exciting and special.
Dressed in his all white outfit, lead singer Vic Viramontes Pattison walks on stage and the crowd erupts in cheers. Drummer Jesse Fimmel runs on stage in a similar all white look and takes his place behind the drums. Guitarist Matt Fowler joins the stage in white pants and red shirt and screams “let’s go” to the screaming crowd. With a jump from Matt and flash of the lights, the first song “Made For This” begins.
The energy in the crowd was absolutely insane. Multiple times throughout the night, crowd surfers made their way to the front and onto the stage before making their way back to the crowd. From the first line of the very first song, people were dancing, cheering, clapping and just overall having the time of their lives. People were rocking out with their friends, some they may have met for the first time that day and may have become friends through the band.
Arrows in Action put on a fantastic show. The guitars, vocals, drums all sounded killer live and everything flowed nicely from one part to the next. They also took time to interact with the crowd and talk about how crazy it is for them to be on their first headlining tour and to sell out shows. They goofed around with one another on stage, and just looked happy and grateful to be playing their music for people who supported them.
With Mahall’s being a smaller venue, the concert felt even more intimate and personal. The front of the crowd was pushed up right against the stage, and the first few rows could easily reach out and touch the stage. It made you feel like you were part of the concert. There was no barrier separating you from the band. So, not only could you feed off the excitement of the crowd, but the band as well. Being that up close to the action creates a new overall feeling and environment. The connection to what is happening right in front you is heightened and you are able to take everything in and live in the moment because it is just an arms length away.
They played “Entropy,” “Built To Last” and “Put You Through Me” from their debut album and Be More EP like “All The Ways I Could Die” and “Endeavor” from their Be More EP, as well as single “This Time”.
Arrows in Action paid homage to their friends in The Home Team by not only mentioning how they borrowed the lights they were using on stage from the band but also playing “Wide Eyes” which features The Home Team. “Wide Eyes” is a fast paced song that had the crowd dancing and rocking out. The driving guitar line and drum beat is one you can not stand still and enjoy. Plus, the crowd for sure nailed singing Brian Butcher from The Home Team’s part.
The band also played “High” and “Over It.” “Over It” has a more laid back groovy line that had the crowd clapping along and moving to the beat. “High” is a more sassy song with a very catchy chorus that the crowd even had a little dance to do with the line, “I love the way that her halo is hiding her horns.” This song Vic ditched the guitar and moved around the stage to interact with the crowd and allow them to sing along to the chorus. Let the crowd let out their sassy and fun side for a minute.
A touching moment of the show was during the personal song “Checking In.” During this song, the fans held up purple, orange, and red hearts over their phone flashlights. The colors matching the color scheme of their album. It was a beautiful moment to look out into the crowd and see a sea of hearts lit up for the band. A true demonstration of the support and love for the band during one of the more emotional songs of the night.
The trio toned it down to play an acoustic medley of some of their older songs including “Denim,” “Failing On Purpose” and “Permanent Vacation.” It allowed for the band to really connect with the audience and, for those who have been following the band for years, it gave them the chance to sing along to some of their favorite songs. The crowd joined the band with every song, singing every word. You could see the happiness and shock as the band looked out to see a sold out room of fans singing along to the songs they wrote. It was a sweet and magical moment that brought the fans and Arrows In Action closer together.
The band even brought out a little TikTok dance moment when they played their song “Head In The Clouds.” When the band released this song, they uploaded several TikToks of them doing simple stomp and clap dance along to the chorus of the song. So, with the instruction of Jesse, the crowd performed the dance. It was a fun and unique way to get the crowd involved while making it original to the band. While lots of the crowd may have known the dance, learning the dance as a group was a way for the band to connect to the crowd, and for many of the fans to dance with fellow fans. Of course now, everyone can do the simple choreography every time they listen to the song.
Arrows in Action also performed the other collaboration song from their album, “The Credits,” which features Magnolia Park and Loveless. During this song, Devin Papadol, the lead singer of Honey Revenge, joined them on stage to sing what is Loveless’ part on the song. She killed the part and took over the stage during the rest of the song. Her voice meshed well with Vic’s during the chorus. The song itself is a fan favorite and the crowd definitely help carry Magnolia Park’s part and sang very loudly during the bridge and chorus.
The ultimate rock moment was during “Seeing Red.” This song is full of anger, heavy guitars and drums. The crowd got probably the loudest during this song. Everyone was rocking out, screaming the lyrics, head banging, and letting out all their built up anger. The lights were turned to red to match the song, and Arrows In Action were rocking out. Matt was mouthing along to the lyrics to the crowd and headbanging along to the beat. And trust me, screaming “who the fuck are you to tell me my own truth” in a crowded room is quite cathartic.
Arrows in Action closed out the night with one of their most popular songs, “Uncomfortably Numb.” The perfect song to close out an incredible set. For many, this may have been the song that interested them to the band. It had everyone singing along, especially during the chorus. Plus, the build in the song keeps the energy going, and the crowd jumping and moving until the very last minute.
Arrows in Action put on a show full of energy, laughs and connection, Watching the trio on stage, you can feel their energy and appreciation for the fanbase they have grown. The joy never left their faces and the fans gave the same energy right back. The band left it all on stage and made it a night the fans will never forget; everyone leaving the show, craving the next time they can see their favorite band again.
Arrows in Action are only just getting started. They are a band to watch because over the next few years they will only get bigger. With the support of their fans, energy, stage presence, and catchy songs with their own unique sound, they are bound for success.
Arrows in Action debut album Built To Last is currently available to stream on all major streaming platforms. Upcoming tour dates can be found on their website.
Check out our review of Built To Last here and our interview with the band here. -
Yungblud’s catharsis in Cleveland
The sun is setting, people have filled the pit and the stands. Excitement is growing, as the mid-July Ohio heat rages on. The love and excitement is radiating off the crowd. It is getting closer to the time for Yungblud to take the stage. Then the lights dim, the band begins to take the stage, and the intro video begins to play. The crowd gets louder and louder.
Yungblud screams “CLEVELAND” and runs from one end of the stage to the next. The opening phone rings of “21st Century Liability” and he instructs the crowd to jump and the crowd is moving, ready for a night to remember.
Yungblud took the stage at Jacob’s Pavilion in Cleveland, OH on July 11 on the YUNGBLUD THE WORLD TOUR. This tour is in support of his self-titled album released in September 2022.From the moment he steps on stage, Yungblud is jumping around, running from one area of the stage to the next, dancing with the mic stand, every moment has something going on. Everyone is on high alert, watching him sprint around the stage and interact with the crowd. There is no time to rest so, if you were looking for a chill and relaxed kind of concert, this one is not for you.
The momentum of the show is incredible. There is truly not a dull moment. All while, he is still giving it all vocally, still sounding incredible and putting on a performance with his vocal and his face and movement. Giving plenty of facial expressions throughout the songs, and had some sunglasses he could take on and off to add to it. From sassy grins to angry faces and giving middle fingers with big smiles, every emotion expressed in the music was shown through his performance. Of course he threw water into the crowd at multiple points of the night: it would not be a Yungblud show without that.
The large screen on stage also helped add levels to the performance. Some songs just had lights, while others had different images projected onto them. It may have been lyrics and Yungblud’s drawings like for “Lowlife” and the opening had a full dark angel video that played before he took the stage. It was simple things that helped bring the performance to life.
Yungblud played songs off all three of his albums. From his first album 21st Century Liability, he played the title track, “California,” “Doctor, Doctor”, “Anarchist” and “Kill Somebody.” He played “Strawberry Lipstick” and “Parents” from his second album Weird! From his third album, he played “The Funeral,” “Tissues” and “Sweet Heroine.” He also played his new single “Lowlife.”
At the center of every Yungblud show is the feeling of looking out for each other and feeling like a family. He mentioned those aspects throughout the night and even had us all stop and turn to the people next us and say hi. He wants his shows and his fanbase to be a safe space where we can go and be ourselves and be a support system.
Two of the most high energy songs of the night were “Parents” and “Anarchist.” “Parents” opens with a voice recording of a Dad angrily yelling. This song is full of sass and rebellious energy. With it being one of his most popular songs, it had everyone singing along to the catchy chorus and verses. Of course, Yungblud ran from each side of the stage, getting the crowd going and bouncing along to the beat.
“Anarchist” had the crowd jumping along and screaming along from the start. This song is packed full of anger and rebellion. This was the chance for the crowd to let out some steam and anger. The repetitive chorus of “I”m anarchist” had the whole crowd screaming along. Yungblud instructed the whole crowd to get as low as they could before the chorus kicked in. It did not matter if you were in the pit or the bleachers, you had to get low. Then when the chorus kicked in, everyone jumped and got crazy: jumping, dancing, screaming, moshing, whatever you needed to do let out all the built up anger and energy. This was that moment to let it all out.
Yungblud took center stage with acoustic guitar to slow it down for a moment. He began singing “Kill Somebody” off of his first album 21st Century Liability. This moment was full of emotion as everyone belted out the lyrics and swayed to music. Towards the middle of the song, Yungblud stopped singing to give a speech. His debut album turned five this year and he talked about why he wrote the album and the meaning behind it. He wrote the album because he felt alone and misunderstood. Life is hard and we may feel alone and judged, but in that room we were building an army and we could change a generation. He also emphasized that Yungblud does not leave Ohio that night, because we are all Yungblud.
“Sweet Heroine” was another stand out moment of the night. He took the piano to begin the song. The stage was darker. He played a portion of the song there, emotion lacing his vocals. The crowd is just taking it all in and being in the moment. Then he moved to the center of the stage once again and played the rest of the song with guitar. The energy picked up again, with emotion radiating off of the crowd as we all sang along to the song. The song slowly builds and by the end it is a huge moment and that was felt by the crowd and executed by the singer. The dynamics with his vocals, and instrumentals were fantastic. He had the crowd put their arms up and swing them to beat. The short song was made into this long, beautiful moment and was different from the other songs throughout the night. It was magical: the crowd felt closer and drawn in completely, like you did not want to miss a moment.
Yungblud then performed his song with Cleveland’s Machine Gun Kelly “I Think I’m Okay,” which is always a crowd favorite that has the whole crowd singing along. Following this of course is the classic fake walk off stage to act like the show is over. The lights do not come back on and the crowd stays put, waiting in high anticipation for the show to continue. After a few minutes, the band begins to come back on stage and the cheering gets louder and louder.
Yungblud runs back on stage in a slight outfit change with a new black and white striped top for the encore. He played his newest release “Lowlife.” The crowd knew all the words to the song and were screaming along. The energy was just as high as it was at the start of the show. Yungblud ran around the stage, and got the crowd involved by bouncing their arms and participating in the “la-la-la-la-la” call and response.
He finished off the set with his 2019 song “Loner,” another high energy song for the crowd to give it all last time. He had the crowd put the classic “L” symbol up on their foreheads mimicking the artwork for the song and began the song. He brought out the tambourine for the end of the song as we all sang along to the final bridge and chorus. Yungblud gave it all and belted out the last notes before tossing the tambourine into the air and throwing the mic stand towards the back of the stage. The crowd cheered, not wanting for the night to be over.
The energy at a Yungblud show is indescribable. You feel safe as you scream along to the lyrics to his songs and take in the message of mental health, love and heartbreak behind them. They join the Yungblud family, a moment that they never want to end, and they cannot wait to experience again.
You can stream Yungblud’s new single “Lowlife” on all streaming services. You can also find upcoming tour dates on his website.
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Paramore brings long awaited This Is Why Tour to Cleveland
People fill the floor of the arena, others are filing into their seats on the outer sections. You can feel the energy radiating off of everyone in the building. Many have been waiting for years to see the band live again, and others, this is their first time. The stage is set, drums are uncovered and microphones are ready. All that is left is for the band to take the stage.
The music playing throughout the arena stops, the lights get dark, and the crowd begins to scream, ready for the show to begin. The members begin to fill the stage, they begin to play, and as the lead singer takes the stage and begins to sing, the show begins.
Paramore brought their This Is Why Tour to Cleveland, Ohio at the Rocket Mortgage Arena on June 4, 2023. This tour is in support of their February 2023 album This Is Why, the first album release from the band since their 2017 album After Laughter. Needless to say, this tour and album was highly anticipated for fans who have been waiting years to finally see this amazing band live.
I think it goes without saying that Paramore is a fantastic live band. The energy they bring to the stage is unmatched. Hayley Williams commands the stage with her presence and nails every single song. She uses the whole stage, interacts with the crowd, dances and just brings every single song to life. Her use of facial expressions, vocal delivery and just overall presence brings out the emotion in every song and makes the audience even more engaged. Obviously her vocal performance was on point, but it is Hayley Williams. We know she will always bring it on stage.
Williams encouraged everyone to be themselves and let loose, and that is what everyone did. I know I was dancing in my seat and singing every word at the top of my lungs. There was no such thing as bad dancing at the show. Looking into the crowd, you see people having the time of their lives, hearing songs that they have loved for years. It was a positive, loving, and welcoming environment.
The feeling of love and being welcomed with open arms was evident not only from the crowd, but from the band themselves. Williams repeatedly talked about Paramore as a family. She mentioned that if this was your first show, you are now a part of the Paramore family. That everyone in the family makes up Paramore, because without the fans and support, they would not be able to do what they do. The fans have watched the band grow up and become who they are today. They have stuck by them even through the tough times. They would not be able to be on stage, and they are extremely grateful for that.
The set list consisted of songs that span the band’s entire discography. They played songs off of their new album like “Running Out Of Time,” “The News,” “Figure 8,” “Big Man, Little Dignity” and “Crave.” They also played songs from the previous albums like, “That’s What You Get,” “Ain’t It Fun,” “Rose-Colored Boy,” “Playing God,” “Last Hope” and “The Only Exception.”
A favorite moment of the show was when the group played “Decode.” This classic song brought out the early 2000’s angsty teen in the whole crowd as we screamed the classic line “how did we get here”. If you were not already losing your mind, when this song began, you were screaming the lyrics and headbanging for sure. The heavy drums, guitars and Williams killer voice brought the song to life and the crowd was living for it.
Not only was the band fantastic, but so was the stage set up and visual effects. Behind the band was a large screen that provided visuals for each track, to further bring the song to life. Some of my favorite ones were the ones that had the lyrics of the song. For “Decode,” it was the chorus with the words splattered around the screen. Others were just different color visuals to match the vibe of the song and some was just the band being broadcasted with a filter or effect added, like some sort of distorted effect during “This Is Why.” Whatever it was, added another level of creativity and life to the performance. Even if you could not see the band, you still had something to see at all times.
Confetti and streamers were shot off into the crowd throughout the night. Many fans scrambled to gather as much as they could hold to take home as a souvenir. As well as some gold sparkler pyrotechnics that go off from the ceiling behind the band during “The Only Exception.” They lit up the stage as they fell from the sky as Williams belted out the last notes of the loved acoustic love song, adding to the beauty of the already beautiful Paramore classic.
A stand out moment in the show was around half way through the show the band exited the stage and the back portion rose up until it was around the middle of the screen. It became a small stage and the lights came back on slightly, but they were still dark. All you could see was just silhouettes of Hayley Williams, Zac Farro, and Taylor York. The screen was lit up with clouds and the sky, with orange lights providing the soul lights on the trio. There was no introduction: they appeared on the stage and began to play. The crowd was silent and just took in the beautiful moment in front of them. Here, they played “Liar” off This is Why and “Crystal Clear” off Williams’s solo record Petals For Armor.
That part of the set was a beautiful and memorable moment. It was so simple and personal. It felt like it was just you and the band, and not like you were in an arena full of others. There were no crazy effects, or over the top choreography. It was just instrumental and vocals. You could not help but watch and be the moment. Williams’ vocals soared and filled the arena magnificently, allowing for the whole crowd to feel the emotion and be in the moment with the band. It was a time to sit back and admire the talent that is Paramore.
Drummer Zac Farro also played a song by his band HalfNoise titled “Baby,” which was so cool. It allowed fans who may have not been familiar with Farro’s work outside of Paramore to hear his other music and was a bonus for those who are fans of HalfNoise. It also showed how supportive the group is of each other’s work outside of the band, just further cementing how amazing Paramore is.
Of course, a Paramore show would not be a Paramore show without the major hit and favorite of many “Misery Business.” This song absolutely goes off every time. It is loved not only by Paramore fans, but many others who grew up in the 2000’s. Everyone screams every lyric, dances, headbangs, does whatever they want. Williams feeds off the energy of the crowd and goes just as crazy, jumping and dancing all around the stage. Of course, there is the part of the song right before the bridge when they invite a lucky fan on stage to sing the rest of the song with the group, and this show was no different. They brought a lucky fan on stage who was so happy and shocked. She absolutely killed it. They nailed the bridge and owned the stage. It was such a fun moment to watch from the crowd.
You can find dates and tickets for upcoming shows on Paramore’s official website. You can also stream their new album This Is Why on all major streaming platforms.
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Vanner releases comeback schedule for VENI, VIDI, VICI
They came, they saw and they’re ready to conquer.
On July 30, Peak Time winner Vanner announced their first mini-album with Klap Entertainment titled VENI, VIDI, VICI. The album is set to release August 21 at 6PM KST (5AM EST). While the full concept of VENI, VIDI, VICI has not yet been revealed, a release schedule was posted to the band’s social media on August 1.
It was also revealed on August 1 there will be two main versions of the album: Victory Banner and Voyage of Dreams. Each album will contain a photobook, one random photocard, a sticker sheet and an origami paper. The Victory Banner version will contain an ID card and the Voyage of Dreams version will contain a paper tag in place of it. The first press of albums will include a random poster and 150 albums will include a limited Polaroid.
A third version of the album, designated PLVE, has its own set of perks. In addition to a QR card and lyric book, the PLVE version will contain a photocard, temporary tattoo sheet, scratch card, photo bookmark and a digital photocard.
Vanner previously released one full album and three single albums under VT Entertainment. Their debut album V was released on February 14, 2019 with the title track “Better Do Better.” The follow-up, 5cean: V, was released on September 4, 2019 with the title track “Crazy Love” and the second single album Life released on December 1, 2020 with the title track “Form.”
This also marks their first comeback since Take Off, released on February 28, 2022 with the single “Rollin’.” It also marks their first release after winning Peak Time on April 19.
While far from Vanner’s first release, fans certainly have a lot to look forward to with this fresh start.
VENI, VIDI, VICI is currently available for pre-order. For the chance to win a fansign or video call with Vanner, albums can be ordered here.
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Sadye can keep it to herself with new single
Sadye is taking all her secrets straight to hell.
The alt-pop songstress released her latest single “Keep It to Myself” on July 28. Produced by Slush Puppy, “Keep It to Myself” pulses with ethereal synth and addictive, driving bass. If the song’s start-stop intro and pounding percussion doesn’t get you into a hazy house party groove, its pounding percussion will.
From the jump, Sadye’s lack of real investment in an unrewarding relationship is sharp and clear. The way she sings the first line, “don’t worry, I won’t tell anybody how good you are at fucking…me over,” is brilliantly tongue-in-cheek. Described by Sadye as “the fuckboy circus anthem of my dreams,” this is a track about every guy who’s ever turned off his location before going to a girl’s house. Sadye makes it clear she knows exactly which cards to play with lyrics like, “I’ll pretend that I don’t know you/if and when I see you out.”
“Keep It to Myself” also cleverly answers the question of why some women keep going back to partners who treat them like secrets: sometimes, the rush of sneaking around is so all-encompassing it’s easy to get stuck in a fantasy. It also helps if that person is good in bed: “you can pour me one more shot/we can get naked on your floor.”
Sadye’s sarcasm and effortless charm takes her power back from whatever loser guy treated her like a dirty little secret. The tables have well and truly turned, even if no one will ever know.
“Keep It To Myself” is now available on all major streaming services. Check out the lyric video below!
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SUPERKIND makes MusicCore debut
Players, welcome to the Show!
On July 8, K-pop boy group SUPERKIND made their debut on MBC’s Show! MusicCore program. They performed their latest title track “Moody,” released March 17, wearing school uniform jackets and khaki slacks.
SUPERKIND debuted on June 20, 2022 with the title track “Watch Out” and gained attention for being made up of both human and AI members, called PRIDs and NUKEs respectively. The performance was exclusively comprised of the PRIDs: Daemon, Eugene, Geon, SiO and JDV. NUKEs SAEJiN and Seung were not in attendance.
Check out the full performance below!
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Alizee brings you “Into the Breach” with new mockumentary
“Until yesterday, I had no idea who Paul Breach was. I’d never seen him before in my life, but I randomly received this threatening message from him and it prompted me to investigate him further.”
YouTuber Alizee, in collaboration with X ANIMA, released her long-awaited mockumentary Into the Breach: The Paul Breach Files on June 30. The 32-minute video explores controversial TikTok user Paul Breach, who became a viral meme due to lip-sync videos and his original song about Jack Grealish. This fame turned to infamy after allegations of grooming teenage girls surfaced.
“It’s finally here,” the YouTube description reads. “My long awaited [by no one] true crime mockumentary! Featuring the finest bloke in the TikTok drama UK scene, Paul Breach! Feast your eyes on too much TikTok cringe to comprehend, but don’t get creeped out. It’s just a joke, alright?”
As the name suggests, the mockumentary is a parody of true crime documentaries. While the allegations against Breach are severe, Alizee approached them with tongue-in-cheek humor and her signature snark.
“Though our picture of Paul is becoming clearer, it was still blurry,” Alizee said in one clip. “Like when you look out a window and notice the window is blurry.”
In addition to Alizee, Into the Breach stars Maria Pearson as psychoanalyst Dr. Jane Shending, Adam Bloom as Paul Breach superfan Saul Peach and Alexander Pankhurst as both Berlock Polmes and Alan the binman.
Into the Breach is available exclusively on Alizee’s YouTube channel. Watch the full mockumentary below!
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Arrows In Action are Built to Last on debut album
Figuring out your place in this crazy world is a scary time filled with ups and downs. With it often comes heartbreak, self-doubt, loss of connection and you may feel like things may never work out. On Built To Last, Arrows In Action explores this anxious time in our lives.
This pop-rock trio have gained a strong fan base over the last few years through TikTok and the success of their song “Uncomfortably Numb” off their 2021 EP Be More. Built to Last showcases the range of sound the group is able to create and execute from slower more acoustic moments like “Checking In” to heavier tracks like “Seeing Red,” and songs like “Over It” that bring a more groovy feel. By the end, you are full of emotion, the main one being hope.
This album discusses the struggles of mental health and life including relationships, career, family and friendships. Songs like “Put You Through Me” discuss pushing people away because you don’t want them to fall in love when you know you will only hurt them, whereas “Over It” is about feeling like life is beating you down again and again and just wanting it to turn around.
Tracks like “Entropy” are about moving somewhere new and working towards what you want and second guessing yourself. You get to the place you want to be but you feel alone, burned bridges and everything just feels numb. However, not every song is completely negative. The song “Head In The Clouds” is about having a positive look on life and believing that everything will be okay.
Built to Last comes full circle through the title track, connecting every song on the album and specifically tying back opening track “Made For This.” The very last verse of the song has lines that call back to each song on the album. You may not catch it on first listen, but once you notice it the appreciation and understanding of the song grows. “Built to Last” feels like a reflection of everything in life that has happened and ready to move forward and leave the past behind. The other tracks are the stories of the past, so referencing them is acknowledging the past and those lessons are a beautiful moment. Specifically, the last line, “What was I made for if I wasn’t made for…?” calls back to “Made For This” and cutting off of the title makes for a perfect transition back to the start of the album.
“The Credits” is a strong track that showcases all three vocalists individually very well. Loveless brings anger to the second verse and a chorus and Magnolia Park brings emotion to the powerful bridge.The name holds true and it has a feeling like it should be in a movie. The lyrics discuss the end of a relationship and not wanting to come to terms with it ending and your partner moving on. The line “the credits are rolling and I’m still holding on”, compares the end of a movie to the end of the relationship. Also, the transition from the first chorus to the next verse has this sound that almost mimics like some sort of magic effect found in a movie. Like it is dissolving from one scene to the next. The rolling drum beat keeps it moving and when the bridge kicks in, it is full speed ahead. The drums and guitar get louder and more intense, and even when the vocals drop, the drums are still going and gearing up for one more big chorus to close out the track.
“Wide Eyes” starts off with a groovy melody and quieter vocal, almost like lead singer Victor Viramontes-Pattison is talking to himself. But you can still hear just the right amount of sass and attitude thrown onto the vocals that will be the underlying theme throughout the song. However, by the time the chorus kicks in, nothing is quiet. And it only grows as the song goes. You can hear glass breaking effects, a running drum beat, synthesizers, all of it. Brian Butcher of The Home Team kills it, adding in his own sassy yet fun vocal. He not only shines his verse, but also by adding in some backing vocals on the chorus and bridge. The ending brings out fantastic high notes from the vocalists that seemingly transition into the guitar and drum melody and finish off with a simple “I hope you’re okay with that”.
“Seeing Red” is a stand out track on this album. The energy on this track feels vengeful and feeling like someone has backstabbed you with lines like “so who the fuck are you to tell me my own truth”. And the instrumental definitely matches that energy. This song shows off the band’s heavier side with rougher vocals, roaring guitars and heavy in your face drums that make you want to headband. The delivery of the vocals in the chorus feels very reminiscent of pop punk songs with straightforward, short lines that make you want to scream and point your finger as you sing them. However, the verses still have style that feels like the other tracks. The lines are a bit longer and more storytelling-like. Then we add in some screaming and synthesizer infused breakdown moment, followed by a moment of calm with a running guitar riff that builds into the last chorus to end the track strong.
“Checking In” is another stand out moment. This track explores feeling like you have lost connection to the loved ones in your life. They have reached out to you, but you have not returned the effort. Part of that is because you have all grown up and moved on in life, but part of it is isolating yourself from everyone. While not completely acoustic, this track is a more toned down moment on the album. A simple guitar line and drum beat that will have your toe tapping. The band lets the emotion in Vic’s vocals and the lyrics tell the story. A story that many listeners will be able to relate to.
Those listeners looking for a groovy bass line can find it on the track “High”. The bass on this track is heavy and fun and gives jazzy rock vibes. “High” overall is a more fun track, with a catchy chorus. While still hitting on the topic of being in a toxic relationship with lines like “She’s so sweet only when she needs somethin’ from me” and “what she don’t know is that it gets me high.” The bass line will have you dancing and singing along in no time. Mix that with the catchy chorus, a fun drum beat and dreamy vocals and we have a recipe for the song to get the crowd moving and grooving.
Arrows In Action also collaborated with several artists on this project. The first being on the track “The Credits” which was released back in February. This track features the bands Magnolia Park and Loveless. On the track “Wide Eyes,” the band The Home Team joins the band.
Overall, Built to Last is a fantastic debut album for Arrows In Action. This album feels like a complete story of struggle, self-reflection and perseverance. The order of songs is done in such a way that you hear every step of the story from sadness to anger and, by the end, hope. Finishing the album you feel like you have gone on a journey with the band and that everything will be okay.
Built To Last was released on May 26 and can be streamed on all major streaming platforms. You can catch Arrows In Action on tour this summer and tickets can be found on their website.
Image Credit: Zach Pigg
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Arrows in Action talk debut album release, fan support and upcoming summer tour
Alternative rock band Arrows in Action are taking the scene by storm following the success of their 2021 song “Uncomfortably Numb” with Taylor Acorn, which currently sits at over 13 million plays on Spotify. Since then, the band’s momentum has not stopped. Having amassed over 280K followers on TikTok and many dates on their upcoming tour being close to selling out, Arrows in Action are just getting started. We talked with vocalist Victor Viramontes Pattison, guitarist Matt Fowler and drummer Jesse Fimmel about their debut album Built to Last, the support from their ever-growing fanbase and their upcoming North American tour.
Matt Fowler, Victor Viramontes Pattison, Jesse Frimmel (from left) Congrats on putting out your debut album Built to Last! How does it feel to finally have your debut album out in the world?
Victor Viramontes Pattison: After well over a year of working on these songs, we feel like we’ve dialed in who we are as a band and what we want to convey through our records. It feels very validating to finally have a full record out and have it be so well received by our amazing fans! A lot has happened since we moved to Nashville together and releasing this album has helped us to feel at home in a new place.
What song were you most excited for people to hear on the album and why? Have you noticed a song that has become a fan favorite?
Jesse Frimmel: We were most excited for people to hear Checking In because it is such a sentimental song for us. As we were writing it with our friends, we were each thinking of someone we had lost touch with but who we wish we hadn’t. It was so genuinely fun to create, and we felt it had such a poignant call to action, that we couldn’t wait to share it.
Photo Credit: Zach Pigg This album touches on many topics relating to coming of age and finding your place in the world like mental health, relationships and keeping loved ones close which makes the songs very personal. What was the experience writing those songs like?
Matt Fowler: Writing these songs was incredibly cathartic for all of us. We’ve experienced a lot of life in the past three years, some incredible and some not so much. Getting together to vent, and create felt more necessary than it ever had. Most of these songs were written across late nights and long life talks. Through this process we learned to prioritize the relationships in life that mean most to us; our friends and family.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they influenced the way you create music? Can these influences be heard on the album?
MF: While writing for Built to Last, we referenced a wide range of artists! Most frequently referenced were Demi Lovato, Foo Fighters, 5SOS, Bad Suns, Waterparks and The Aces. For a long time, we created music through imitation like a lot of artists. Imitating our favorites while putting our spin on it. This time around it truly felt like we were keeping our own identity in mind, and letting these influences modify our style to create an eclectic batch of songs.
Photo Credit: Zach Pigg Looking online, it seems you have grown a strong community of fans online between TikTok, Twitter and your discord server. How does it feel to have such a strong community of support behind your band?
JF: It’s difficult to grasp how large the community has grown. It’s beautiful to see different groups of fans from all around the world forming friendships and regularly attending shows and live streams together. We are incredibly grateful that they’ve stuck with us and we plan to keep growing an inclusive and fun community!
You had the chance to feature Magnolia Park, Loveless and The Home Team on the record, how did those collaborations come about?
MF: We’ve known The Home Team since 2019 when we played four of their tour dates with them! We’ve talked about collaborating for a long time, and Wide Eyes just felt like the perfect track even before it was done we knew Brian would rip on it. We’ve been internet friends with Loveless for some time now and likewise had thought a collaboration would be super fun for fans and for ourselves. We felt like The Credits was an interesting opportunity to have rock vocalists on a more synthy, pop focused track. Magnolia Park saw some early Twitter discourse about the feature and offered to hop in and make it the awesome “TikTok band” trifecta that it is!
Photo Credit: Zach Pigg Was there anything you learned while making this album that you will take when you make future records?
VVP: Even though the record is sonically eclectic, we learned how to make a large collection of songs cohesive through story and theme. We learned how to work on multiple songs at once, and how to collaborate with each other on a deeper level.
This summer you are heading out on your first full North American headlining tour, what can fans expect from this tour?
MF: Fans can expect the best Arrows in Action show yet! We pride ourselves on being highly interactive with the crowd and full of energy. This will be the longest setlist of our career so far, and the first time we will be introducing a sick light show. And like always we’ll have surprises baked into the show that super fans especially will appreciate.
What songs are you most excited to finally get to play live? Are there any places you are excited to get to play?
JF: We’re all really excited to play Seeing Red because it’s our first song that’s as heavy as it is! It’s so hard to pick even a few places, we have so many second homes now thanks to our fans like Denver, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and so many more. But we are also stoked to be playing so many new places for us like Seattle and Vancouver!
Anything you would like to add?
“Thank you so much for thinking of us and including us!! If you listen to the album 500 times in a row it unlocks a special secret.” – All of us 🙂
Photo Credit: Zach Pigg Arrows In Action’s debut album Built to Last is available on all streaming platforms. The band is also heading out on a North American tour this summer with Honey Revenge and Finish Ticket. Tickets and dates for their summer tour can be found on their official website.
You can also follow the band on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok: @arrowsinaction.
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Songs to start your summer: Summer Playlist 2023
With the summer solstice marking the official start of the season, it’s only fitting to have a summer playlist on deck. Just in time, Penny Rae Hawkins and Alicia Kobasic have teamed up to bring you the top ten tracks off their ultimate summer playlist for 2023.
1. “Touch My Body” Sistar”
What summer playlist would be complete without the Queens of Summer themselves? This 2014 track from Sistar was touted as “a blast of summer fun” by Soompi upon its release, and rightfully so. With swift electric guitar, iconic choreography, joyful vocals and a wonderfully dated sax solo, this is the perfect track to put on when refilling mimosas with your besties at your next pool party.
2. “Head in the Clouds” Arrows in Action
When you think of summer, you think of good times, no problems and leaving all the negative energy behind you. And that is what is captured in this Arrows In Action Track. This upbeat track is full of clapping and acoustic guitar with a catchy chorus that will have you singing along in no time. With lyrics about living in the moment and putting a negative mindset behind you, this track is a must have for any summer playlist.
3. “Candy” NCT Dream
NCT Dream released this cover of the classic track from first gen icons H.O.T as the single of their 2022 Winter Special mini album, but I would argue “Candy” is better set at a summer carnival. Maybe I’m biased because of the original music video, but that vibe is carried over with Dream’s cheerful vocals and youthful charisma. Its bouncy melody almost makes you forget it actually begins as a breakup song, but quickly turns around by the chorus. Sour and sweet like a bag of Sour Patch Kids, “Candy” is perfect for summer love that outlasts the season.
4. “Take Me Home” Weathers
“Take Me Home” by Weathers captures the feeling of spotting someone from across the room but being nervous to approach them. The lyrics perfectly encapsulates the feeling of wanting to make the first move, but being hesitant. Whether it is a summer fling or the start of a new love, this fun guitar riff and catchy chorus is the perfect soundtrack. So maybe, if you got your eyes on someone this summer, throw on this dancey track and see where it goes.
5. “be free” KB
If “Candy” is a cute date at the state fair, “be free” is a hot summer night when you aren’t ready for that date to end. The solo track from OnlyOneOf member KB perfectly soundtracks the part of the evening that could go one way or the other. A funky bassline and a bright guitar complement KB’s voice masterfully on both the distorted chorus and his attitude-filled verses. Put simply, it’s confidence in a bottle that doesn’t waste a drop.
6. “Teenagers” The Summer Set feat. Against the Current
Summer can bring back nostalgic feelings and memories from the past. Especially from when you were young and carefree. “Teenagers” discusses remembering those times and wanting to go back to those days. The whole song just feels anthemic from instrumentals to vocals. With lyrics full of imagery of summer memories and lines like “summer never felt like this,” this track will have you empowered to have a summer just like you did when you were young.
7. “Young Boy” NINE.i
It’s been a while since I’ve heard a song that so perfectly captures youthful optimism, so discovering “Young Boy” feels like an old promise fulfilled. Vocalist and producer Vahn balances the uncertainty and excitement of being on the cusp of that first taste of freedom, whether it’s high school graduation or just another summer break. There’s no better song in K-pop right now that could soundtrack the feeling of running towards an uncertain future with nothing but vigor and brash naivety.
8. “Worst Apology” Honey Revenge
Every summer playlist needs a sassy and powerful track and “Worst Apology” is just that. This song is about not accepting apologies from people who won’t change. With a nice groovy beat and sassy vocals you will be dancing along as you blast it at all the summer parties in no time. Add lyrics with lines like “now my drink tastes like I should ruin your night” that are perfect to scream with all your friends. Time to leave that toxic energy behind and start fresh this summer.
9. “Prime Time” Vanner
The “Peak Time” winners have really outdone themselves with this bop. Produced by Ryan S. Jhun, “Prime Time” bounces across your speakers in a way that demands to be played at top volume. Ideally, they should be played from the radio of a convertible for that premium summer vibe. Without pause, “Prime Time” is a victory lap from the opening harmony to its triumphant closing notes. If you’re not shouting “this is how we do” or “can’t stop, won’t stop” at the top of your voice, you aren’t doing it right.
10. “Paradise” Broadside
What is a better song than “Paradise” for a summer song? This track is full of fun guitars and drums perfect for driving around with the windows down. The lyrics of the chorus, “go chase your paradise into the waves” and “dive right in, stop coasting through your own life/learn to value your time” is just the motto you need to go on all your summer adventures on your bucket list.
How will you be celebrating the beginning of summer? If these ten songs aren’t enough, check out our full playlist below!
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