Browsing Tag

Rock Ballad

Mikey Wayne’s Lovin’ and Leavin’: A Bonfire Ballad for Every Heart That’s Learned the Hard Way

Posted on 21 April 2025

With a Hollywood panoramic production projecting the intimate echoes of a soul that knows the sting of a temporal romance all too well, Mikey Wayne invited listeners to do more than just dwell on the pain with Lovin’ and Leavin’ he painted a vignette with the emotions derived from the ebb and flow of love which pushes and pulls the heartstrings until they snap.

Lovin’ and Leavin’ isn’t merely a heartbreak anthem—it’s the internal monologue of anyone who’s chosen passion over peace and paid the price. The Alabama-based singer-songwriter, shaped as much by his Southern California beginnings as his Deep South roots, channels that contrast into a ballad steeped in bittersweetness and bound by conviction. His rendered-in-sentimentality vocal lines honey the nostalgic agony as it melodically pirouettes through the track, which lands in the perfect spot in the bitter-sweet equilibrium, especially when the rock solo breaks through the affecting atmosphere, illustrating the intensity of passion with the conviction of a thousand words.

It’s a classic feat of stellar songwriting, with all the hallmarks of the ’70s Americana greats—yet the scars are Wayne’s own. Raised fronting rock bands through high school and college, and now launching from Nashville after a decade of refining his voice, Mikey Wayne has proven that his stories don’t borrow—they bleed. Lovin’ and Leavin’ is a reckoning for anyone who’s felt the full force of head vs. heart, lived to regret it, and would do it all again.

Lovin’ and Leavin’ is now available to stream on all major platforms, including YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast.

G.B Rider rendered resonance into rock reverence with ‘Even Superheroes Cry’

Posted on 28 October 2024

In the raw, soul-stirring single ‘Even Superheroes Cry’, G.B. Rider—Guy Barnes’ musical alter ego—sharpens rock balladry with cuttingly evocative edges.

The standout track from his Child of Yesterday LP wields Elton John-reminiscent piano progressions in a production soaked in 80s nostalgia as the emotional tenor ascends to the raw grit found in Soul Asylum’s vocal desperation, coupled with a fierce nod to the early, unrestrained Manic Street Preachers.

So much more than just a melody that clings to your memory; Child of Yesterday is an anthem that roars for the right to be vulnerable, to be candid in the throes of emotional tumult.

Under the mentorship of the audio pioneer John Oram, Barnes has sculpted a career defined by decades of relentless creativity and emotional authenticity. His music—a synthesis of chorus-driven rock and the intimate narrative styles of legends like George Michael and Neil Diamond—is infused with the augmented energy of Jon Bon Jovi and the lyrical sincerity of Neil Sedaka. Each track G.B Rider crafts is a fortress of feeling and Even Superheroes Cry is far from the exception.

Returning from a hiatus propelled by the tragic loss of his friend and mentee Chris Hardman, Barnes channelled his sorrow into the defiant, hopeful chords of Child of Yesterday. This album is a phoenix’s cry from the ashes of despair, a testament to enduring past pain, a sonic anthology everyone will be able to find a piece of themselves within.

Stream Even Superheroes Cry as part of the Child of Yesterday LP in full via Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Joe Pallotta immortalised the fallen in his piano-driven hard rock ballad, Tears for the Titan

Posted on 11 September 2024
Feed The Fire by Joe Pallotta

In his latest hard rock hit, ‘Tears for the Titan’, San Francisco’s Joe Pallotta tackled the vast expanse of grief with an eloquent precision that almost defies belief. Putting into lyrics what few can weave into words, following the loss of a loved one, he sonically visualised how mourning can tear at the fabric of our being, leaving us frayed, disillusioned, and helplessly out of sync with a world that persists in the wake of tragedy.

The piano rock ballad pits minor key piano melodies against soaring guitar lines and a gothic aesthetic reminiscent of the Sisters of Mercy, pulling listeners deep into the atmosphere of the piece. Pallotta’s vocals echo the soulful vigour of rock legends such as Twisted Sister, Poison and Whitesnake, blending seamlessly with orchestral crescendos which rise and fall with invitations to find consolation that you’re never as alone in your grief as you think you are.

As much as Tears for the Titan is palpably a cathartic outlet for Pallotta, within the jagged shards of agony are commiserations to anyone else who has loved and lost.

 As Pallotta continues to expand his reach, aiming to touch as many souls as possible with his music, ‘Tears for the Titan’ serves as an affecting reminder of his ability to convert raw, unfiltered emotion into a soul-gripping alt-rock experience. To explore more of Joe Pallotta’s emotionally rich and resonant artistry, visit his collection at joepallotta.bandcamp.com.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Todd Michael Chapman’s latest melodic rock hit, Mesmerized, is enlivened through heart-on-riff soul appeal.

Posted on 9 January 2024

Romance isn’t dead; it was raucously revived through Todd Michael Chapman’s latest single, Mesmerized, which gives all the heart-in-throat electricity of Aerosmith’s I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing while channelling a fervid authenticity that stays true to the singer-songwriter’s rustbelt inspired melodic rock edge.

The confessional lyricism narrated through the strident vocal lines that will stir your soul as the bluesy rock hooks feed infectious appeal in the sublimely produced record ensured that the New York-born and-raised raconteur delivered a timeless hit that will resonate through the ages. With a touch of R.E.M.’s college radio rock nostalgic appeal laced with Chapman’s ability to make the old feel brand new, Mesmerized will leave you exactly what it says on the tin.

After hearing it once, I know it will be a sonic landscape I return to time and time again to be enlivened by the uninhibited heart-on-riff soul appeal.

Mesmerized was officially released on January 5th; stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Embarking on a Soulful Journey: ‘Detox’ by Thess

Posted on 29 June 2023

In the song “Detox,” the seriousness becomes apparent, both in its title and its tone. “Detox” by Thess is a beautiful rock ballad that takes listeners on a profound and introspective journey. With its slow tempo, minor tonality, and soulful atmosphere, this song captures and envelopes listeners in a captivating musical experience.

The slow pace allows each instrument to breathe, creating a sense of space and contemplation. The minor tonality adds a touch of melancholy and introspection, evoking a range of emotions.

Thess skilfully delivers heartfelt and poignant lyrics in their new Spotify release, showcasing their ability to convey deep emotions and thoughts. The soulful vocals resonate with authenticity and vulnerability, drawing listeners in and inviting them to explore the depths of the song’s narrative.

“Detox” is a song that unfolds as a transformative journey, where listeners can immerse themselves in its sonic landscape and delve into their own introspection. It addresses themes of struggle, growth, and the search for personal redemption. The song’s progression builds an emotional arc, gradually intensifying as it reaches its climactic moments.

For fans of “Man in a Box” by Alice in Chains or the album “Mechanical Animals” by Marilyn Manson, “Detox” will feel like a natural choice. The song shares a similar spirit and emotional depth, appealing to those who appreciate thought-provoking rock ballads that take them on a cathartic journey.

“Detox” by Thess is a captivating rock ballad that invites listeners on a soulful journey of self-reflection and emotional exploration. With its slow tempo, minor tonality, and poignant lyrics, the song creates a rich and immersive experience.

Never Built to Last by Forgotten Tides – Reminds Us to Live Passionately

Posted on 25 April 2023

“Never Built to Last” by Forgotten Tides is a captivating rock ballad that showcases the band’s musical talent and lyricism. The song starts with a mellow guitar intro, followed by the powerful vocals of lead singer, Jonny Lees. The lyrics speak of the fleeting nature of relationships and how they often come to an end, despite the initial passion and promises. Lee’s emotive delivery captures the heartache of lost love, making it a relatable and poignant experience for listeners.

Forgotten Tides is an up-and-coming band from Aberdeen, Scotland, and “Never Built to Last” is one of their most popular tracks. According to their website, the band was formed in 2019 and is influenced by rock legends such as Pearl Jam and Soundgarden. Their music combines the raw energy of grunge with modern production techniques, resulting in a unique sound that appeals to both classic and contemporary rock fans.

On social media, Forgotten Tides are active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where they share updates on their music and interact with fans. Their social media presence is a testament to their dedication to their craft and their desire to connect with their audience.

I love this song, “Never Built to Last” by Forgotten Tides is a must-listen for fans of rock music. Its powerful lyrics, raw energy, and impressive musicianship make it a standout track that is sure to leave a lasting impression. The band’s promising future is evident in their growing fan base and active social media presence, and they are definitely worth keeping an eye on in the coming years.

Marc Ambrosia gets visceral in his lo-fi indie rock ballad, When I’m Feeling Love

Posted on 13 May 2022

Indie-rock singer-songwriter Marc Ambrosia is set to release his Chris Isaak-Esque lo-fi single, When I’m Feeling Love, which progressively makes its way to a scornfully soulful 80s power ballad.

After the gentle and choral prelude and opening verse, the reverb starts to slip away as Ambrosia’s ethereal vocals pick up intensity and urgency to mimic the lifelines of new passions sparked; after a toe is dipped in the water, it isn’t long before you’re completely consumed. And that’s exactly the power Ambrosia has over you in When I’m Feeling Love. Ironically, we are infatuated.

When I’m Feeling Love is to be released on May 13th. You can check it out for yourselves by heading over to SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

PRESSURE inspect the sands of time in their rock ballad, AM I TOO OLD.

Posted on 10 October 2021
PRESSURE

The Stockholm-based powerhouse PRESSURE is set to drop their hard-hitting rock ballad, AM I TOO OLD, which tears through the self-doubt that starts to manifest in our mortal coil when youth has been lost. In true rock opera style, PRESSURE touches on raw issues veraciously while letting the atmosphere consume you in the intensity of the emotion.

I’ve lost count of the people that have come to me with ageism-inspired anxiety in the industry; the truth of the matter is that experience will be a better friend than youth ever was. I mean, you’ve heard of the Rolling Stones, right?

AM I TOO OLD is a stellar track, in every conceivable way. The theatrics of the track will take you right back to the time when we spent far too long thinking about what Meatloaf wouldn’t do for love.

AM I TOO OLD is due for official release on October 15th, 2021. You can hear it for yourself on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Orchestral rock alchemist Kaby Burton has released her sophomore single, The Dance.

Posted on 10 September 2021

It is probably safe to assume that most millennial alt girls, myself included, found themselves fantasising about cultivating the same grippingly gracious talent as the likes of Nightwish; Kaby Burton made it a reality.

‘The Dance’ is the sophomore single from the solo artist who made her debut with her single, Hymn of the Sea, in 2020. Her debut set the bar high, but the atmosphere and intensity of emotion in her orchestral rock track, The Dance, is enough to leave the hairs on the back of your neck stand to attention. ‘Immersive’ almost feels like an understatement when it comes to the theatrically sublime ballad.

The Dance is now available to stream on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Mined Music teaches us how to ‘Rise Again’ with his artful indie rock ballad.

Posted on 14 June 2021

After a soft, artful and neo-classic intro, Mined Music’s electronic indie rock single, Rise Again, featuring Mr. Maph, Amanda Power and Dara Zusko, transgresses into a viscerally compelling ballad where the instrumentals are as complexly layered as the emotions.

With the vocalists finding harmony atop the fervent Slash-style solos towards the outro, Rise Again runs through with an all-consuming intensity that you’d be hardpressed to find elsewhere.

Mined Music, AKA Michael Newell, is a Munch-based producer and DJ who started his career as a hip hop and soul producer before making the switch to electronica in 2012. Rise Again is just one of the recent testaments to his talent in reflecting human emotion in instrumental progressions and compassionate lyricism. Mined Music’s aural maturity, professionalism and nuance are sure to see him go far, wherever he decides to take his sound next.

Rise Again is now available to stream and download on all major platforms via this link.

Connect with Mined Music via Instagram.

Review by Amelia Vandergast