Category: Reviews

Review: Instrumental music artists create powerful emotional responses

by Samantha Campbell

When people think of what instrumental music is, they might think of the music used in tense scenes during action movies, or as far back as Mozart. While they aren’t wrong, instrumental music has more value than to be considered “underrated” in today’s time. 

Songs without words are called instrumental music. The symphonic music and electronic beats create powerful emotional responses through their instrumental melodies. Non-vocal compositions represent a universal art form, which has existed across cultures since ancient times.

Why does this matter now? People in today’s fast-paced society use wordless music tracks to escape mentally and to concentrate. Not many people are fond of listening to instrumental music, especially if they prefer to sing along to the lyrics. In modern taste, most people typically listen to Hip-Hop, Rock, and Pop. 

People may hear a piece but don’t have the ability or experience to really, truly ‘listen‘. To most people, instrumental music is boring. But, there are real benefits to instrumental music. 

Listening to instrumental music can help us concentrate. Whether we’re studying or meditating, the lack of vocals and lyrics helps us focus on our tasks rather than the music. This music will undoubtedly put one in the zone as we allow ourselves to be carried away by the tune. 

There are plenty of different categories of just instrumental music, too. Some may include more soothing instruments, like jazz, while others could be hip-hop related, electronic, or retro. In some scenarios, people may take a popular song of today, and with the use of technology, take away the vocals for just the instrumental. A good example of this would be a game of karaoke – we sing along to our favorite songs with just the music.

I personally enjoy instrumental music over what would be considered “normal” music. It makes me feel calm, collected, and in some cases, creative. I love the way a song can make me feel, so much so when I feel I’ve been given the inspiration to draw or write. 

Instrumental music, in my opinion, also makes me feel more productive in a way; my mind is constantly working alongside the instruments as I use my imagination, unlike when the lyrics are just given to me. I find this genre of music best to listen to during long rides in the car or when doing tedious work, such as chores or paperwork.

Richard David James, known professionally as Aphex Twin, is a British musician, composer and DJ active in electronic music since 1988. His idiosyncratic work has drawn on many styles, including techno, ambient, acid, and jungle, and he has been described as a pioneering figure in the intelligent dance music genre. I love his song “Xtal.” The beat of the song is almost nostalgic, and it’s beautiful.

Nicholas Creus, a small music-artist, is primarily a guitarist and producer based in Los Angeles. Growing up in Madrid, Spain, he listened to pop and rock from the 60s, 70s and 80s, and took up the guitar at age eight. His music includes a lot of instrumentals, such as his song “Watchin’,” which is a personal favorite of mine. 

Idris Ennolandy Vicuña, known professionally as Eyedress, is a Filipino musician who has released albums in various rock, pop and electronic styles. His genre of music falls more into indie pop, but his creativity is enough to consider him a virtuoso. A song he has produced that I enjoy most would be “On Fye.”

Roy Chukwuemeka Nnawuchi, known professionally as Dean Blunt, is an English singer-songwriter, musician, producer, and contemporary artist. He is best known for his current solo work as well as his previous work as part of the avant-garde duo Hype Williams and the hip-hop project Babyfather. His genre of music includes songs that are instrument based, but have vocals. My favorite songs by him would be “LUSH” for its beautiful crescendo, and “9”, for its poetic-way of singing.

Nicholas Foster Rattigan is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, journalist and music video director from Reno, Nevada. He currently releases music under the moniker Current Joys. He also is the drummer and lead singer of the indie surf rock band Surf Curse. I enjoy their song, “New Flesh.” It speaks volumes to me, and is very nostalgic. 

Instrumental music doesn’t have to tie in with just instrument based music, but it could include songs with vocals who may have the intention to focus their attention toward said instruments. Examples of this may be dramatic guitar riffs that are seconds long, gradually growing crescendo’s, or songs with more instruments than vocals altogether.

A few songs, in my opinion, that really highlight instruments in music include, “The Path Less Traveled” by Vegyn, “Dreamer” by Livin’ Joy, “Enjoy the Silence” by Depeche Mode, “Ghosts” by Nostalgiaisfun, “Save a Prayer” by DuranDuran, and “Soul Searching” by Aquarious, Tayla.

My Top 5 “Instrumental” Artists:

  1. Dean Blunt
  2. Aphex Twins
  3. Current Joys
  4. Eyedress
  5. Nicholas Creus
by jhshyphen

Review: ‘Winnie the Pooh’ offers return to childhood enchanted place

by Jilliann Denbo

The first sense of the “Winnie the Pooh” movie, colors on the walls from the TV, the familiar theme song tugging me in. It’s like I’m a kid again. This wasn’t ever only a movie to me. Winnie the Pooh was like a small portal back into my childhood. I always remember sitting on the couch, eager to see all my favorite characters. I always knew how it was going to end or what the characters would say. But the movie never got old. Pooh bear and Piglet always lost or scared. Eeyore always moping around. Tigger jumping. All the characters trying to save Christopher Robin.

There are many movies about “Winnie the Pooh” and the characters, different adventures, different holidays. Some include capturing the “backson” or helping Rabbit find his love for Easter again. Each movie helps children understand friendship and teamwork. These characters show how to be there for each other and to understand each other.

The original movie was made in 1977, called “The many Adventures of Winne the Pooh”. This movie ties in three classic animated shorts “Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree” (1966), “Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day” (1968), and “Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too” (1974). This movie is my absolute favorite movie. The second I hit play I remember what it felt like to see this movie for the first time, giggling when the characters had a small mishap, and loved all characters working together.

The first full length movie focusing on one single character was made in 2000 called “The Tigger Movie.” This movie is full of laughter watching Tigger jumping around and trying to get his friends to learn how to jump around with him. Then he gets upset about not having a family, so he tries to find his family because he believed he couldn’t have a family if they weren’t related to him.

A return to the classic animation style was “Winnie the Pooh” (2011). This movie comes in second place for me. It shows how all the characters truly care about each other. From when Eore was trying to find his tail, or when they all worked together to help Christopher Robin.

These characters like Rabbit, Piglet, And Owl, tend to overreact about many situations, while Tigger, Pooh, Eeyore and the other characters underreact and go with the flow about everything. They all realize that they are family no matter what, and they are all there for each other no matter what. 

The creators of Winnie the Pooh, A. A. Milne and E. H. Shepard, created my childhood. These characters aren’t just a childhood fever dream; they embody the beauty of a friendship, acceptance, and just the joys of being together. 

Each character shows an actual human experience. Pooh has a love for honey and shows great pleasure in life’s small pleasures. Piglet’s timid bravery at times shows everyone that great courage is not an absence of fear but the act of facing it. Eeyore’s mournfulness teaches empathy and how important kindness is to everyone. Tigger’s unending energy shows individuality and enthusiasm. Last but not least, Christopher Robin’s wisdom and mindfulness shows the innocence and imagination of childhood. 

Together each character shows that every single personality has a value. And that true friendship means embracing each other. They take in each other as family no matter what. 

Movie Review Chart

Movie Title: Winnie the Pooh

Starring: Winnie the Pooh – Jim Cummings

Director: Stephen J. Anderson and Don Hall

Writers: Stephen J Anderson, Clio Chiang, Don Dougherty, Don Hall

Rated: G

My Grade: A+

by jhshyphen

Review: Daniel Caesar’s ‘Son of Spergy’ dives deeply into the complications of relationships

by Jada Belser

I was 14 when I first started to listen to Daniel Caesar. He was the reason I got so into music so deeply. I was just watching YouTube one day — just looking for an animation video probably — and then I saw it.  “Get You” by Daniel Caesar a music video the preview started to play and I was instantly drowned in like a magnetic pull.  

“Through drought and famine, natural disasters my baby has been around for me.” 

That one line changed how I saw music from there on out. The presentation and the output of his voice was like nothing else I have ever heard before a divine feeling. The meaning of the song was a deep relationship, where the narrator feels a profound sense of gratitude and wonder for their partner. I can relate to the meaning on a deeper level now that I’m older. 

Caesar had a humbling experience when starting his career. After a fight with his father, he was briefly homeless. He felt he had no other choice but to pursue his calling as an artist. After leaving home he started doing gigs. Caesar connected with producers and future collaborators  Jordan Evans and Matthew Burnett and began writing and recording what would be his debut EP “Praise  Break.” In 2014 it made chart as #19 on 20 best RnB Albums of 2014. 

After some more collaborations on August 25, 2017 Caesar released his debut album Freudian that took his career to a new level. The album was shortlisted for the 2018 Polaris Music Prize. At the 60th annual Grammy Awards, Caesar won Best R&B Performance for “Get You.” At the 61st Grammy Awards Caesar won best R&B Performance for his single “Best Part.”

Caesar’s newest album Son of Spergy has gone off the charts, especially for his song “Who Knows?”   “I’ll probably be a waste of your time, but who knows? Chances are I’ll step out of line, but who knows?”  — a line many listeners can relate to  as young people. We want a relationship to work out but you never know what could happen. Anything could go wrong. The same thing as saying, “We could break each other’s hearts,” but who knows?

“I’ve been thinking ’bout my precarious future. Will you be there with me by my side, my girl, my shooter? Who’s to say who calculates? Not me, I’m no computer” 

Diving more into the narrative of not knowing what could happen in a relationship, but also not wanting to give up on it just because of that “who knows?” . Caesar’s second runner up “Have a baby (With Me)” this song is about a plea to create a lasting legacy with a partner as their relationship is coming to an end. Creating a family not in the traditional way, but in an emotional attempt to create something permanent– a “new dream”  holding on to their love, which is fading.

“There’s no time to believe in what we could be, We could leave something here

It’s too late for our dreams. We can make a new dream, have a baby with me.”

Album Title: Son of Spergy

Artist : Daniel Caesar

Released: Oct. 24, 2025

Number of Songs: 12

My Grade: A+

by jhshyphen

Review: Pearl Street Treats offers ice cream delights to downtown Jeffersonville

by Cylie Ross

I’m doing my review over Pearl Street Treats, located in downtown Jeff. When I walked in it was very decorative, blue floors, pink walls, ice cream decor everywhere. This is a black- owned family business, all the workers are very nice and welcoming. I decided I was going to try some of the blue bell flavors that they had.

Pearl Street Treats at 301 Pearl Street in downtown Jeffersonville.

The first one was cookies and cream, classic flavor; this is always a safe flavor to go with. The vanilla flavor was kind of weak, but the cookie chunks brought it together. The next flavor I got was chocolate chip cookie dough. I had high hopes for that one because it’s my favorite ice cream flavor, and it was great. I love the cookie dough bites in it.

The next flavor I got was banana pudding. I didn’t know what to expect for this one because banana flavored things aren’t really for me, but it was immaculate. It was very creamy and it had chunks of vanilla wafers in it, and the banana flavor wasn’t like an artificial banana – it tasted like fresh bananas. 

The last flavor that I got was strawberry cheesecake, and this one was amazing. It had chunks of cheesecake in it and also strawberry swirl. It tasted like actual cheesecake. 

This is a really good ice cream shop, with cheap prices and good ice cream. I got four kids’ scoops that were only $1.99 a piece. They also have milkshakes, sundaes, ice cream nachos, floats and more. And it’s right next to the walking bridge, so it would be a great place to take your kids. Come and join us at Pearl Street Treats sometime.

by jhshyphen

Review: ‘EX’ proves P1Harmony is ready for a broader stage

by Liddia Waterbury

P1Harmony’s EX hits with a bold pop attitude and unfiltered confidence, pushing their artistry into a more daring era.

P1Harmony’s debut album, Disharmony: Stand out, is edgy, masculine, has a superhero-like concept, and is heavily rap-oriented. Contrastingly, EX explores relatable emotions like self-doubt, empowerment and features strong synth-pop sounds. This album is designed to be catchy and features a more melodic vocal focus.

As P1Harmony’s first full English album, EX is filled with bright energy and excitement. The group shifts from its signature hip-hop edge into pop-rock anthems and electronic vibes, creating a fresh sound. This electronic feel coincides with the retro Game Boy theme of the album.  

An all-English release from this K-pop group isn’t unexpected. The leader, Keeho, is Canadian, and Jiung and Jongseob already speak English fluently. Even members, such as Intak, Theo, and Soul, who are still developing their English skills, have demonstrated strong motivation to continue learning. 

As well as being their first English release, EX is P1Harmony’s ninth mini album, featuring five songs. With this album, the group clearly aims to expand their global audience, connect with international listeners, and highlight their creative growth. 

“EX”, being the first track in EX, is 2 minutes and 53 seconds long and is built around synth-pop and crisp digital sounds. This track blends “80s synth pop” with modern pop elements. It’s a catchy song with a clear message of independence, self-respect, and empowerment, with the lyric, “Every girl deserves to have her exploration, have a little fun without an explanation.” Even though the track has a clean production, it lacks depth or distinctiveness lyrically and melodically.

“EX” also has a Spanish version, which keeps the same upbeat, catchy sound. It doesn’t change the vibe of the original. Hearing it in Spanish makes it feel fresh and exciting. The members handle the language well, and it’s clear they are trying to connect with more fans around the world. It also shows P1Harmony’s creativity, exploring Latin-pop. The track is fun to listen to and a cool choice for Spanish-speaking listeners.

The second track in EX, “Dancing Queen,” is 3 minutes and 31 seconds long. The members deliver strongly with clear vocals, like “their voices soar.” This song is light-hearted, romantic, and is about being captivated by someone dancing. It also tells a simple love story. This shows with the lyrics, “Just keep on dancing queen, you’re so sweet. You put a spell on me.” It sets a fun tone and energy for the album. However, the lyrics are straightforward and kind of familiar.

Similarly, “Night of My Life” has straightforward lyrical content. This song is the fourth track of this album, and it’s approximately 2 minutes and 12 seconds long. It arrives toward the end of the record, functioning as a kind of feel-good, carefree moment. The lyrics are quite simple, though there is variation to the members’ typical vocal roles. It’s about enjoying the night and letting go of tomorrow. The sound is light and energetic, evoking a crowd-friendly feel. Yet, the song sounds like a “less-inspired version” of what P1Harmony can do. 

“Stupid Brain,” the third track in EX, is 4 minutes and 2 seconds long. It has a mellow, reflective sound and captures the frustration of being stuck in your own head. The feeling shows with the lyrics, “Just turn it off, Just for a day, cause I don’t wanna live a life, tryna hold on while it’s slipping away.” The vocals carry emotional weight, allowing listeners to feel the overthinking and unease. This track isn’t flashy, like the big singles, but you can return to it when you’re in a quieter, more meditative mood. So this track is more relaxed than exciting.          

Over the five years of producing music with FNC Entertainment, P1Harmony reached a huge milestone. EX showcases the group’s intent to connect with a global audience and experiment with new genres, including pop-rock and Latin pop influences. EX also serves as a central theme for P1Harmony’s large-scale P1ustage H: Most Wanted world tour. 

With the tour, this album was released in various formats, including mini-album versions, Vinyl versions, and member compact versions. The mini-album versions, In-Game and Game Lovers, are both available for $31.99 each at Target. The Vinyl version can be found at Target for $29.99 and Barnes & Noble for $31.99. The compact CDs have a version of each member and are $19.99 each. All of these items can also be found online on multiple websites. 

EX proves that P1Harmony isn’t afraid to take risks and redefine their sound. Their mix of catchy pop energy and fearless lyrics shows how much they’ve grown as artists. Each track carries a sense of freedom and ambition that matches their bold new direction. With this album, P1Harmony steps confidently into a new chapter, ready to connect with fans around the world. 

Album Review Chart

Album Title: EX

Artist: P1Harmony  

Released: Sept. 26, 2025

Number of Songs: 5

My Grade:  B

by jhshyphen

Review: Atmospheric pop meets honest storytelling in MUNA’s debut

by Chloe Newton 

MUNA’s debut album About U, released in 2017, is a neon-lit diary of heartbreak, self-discovery, and resilience. It doesn’t feel like just discovering an album; it feels like a moment in time, like standing on a city rooftop at midnight, overwhelmed by possibilities.

MUNA is an American indie-pop trio formed at the University of Southern California. The members Katie Gavin, Naomi McPherson, and Josette Maskin combine shimmering synth-pop production with deeply emotional lyrics, often exploring LGBTQ+ identity, trauma, and empowerment. Their music exists in a bittersweet space between crying on the floor and dancing through the pain.

The opening track, “So Special,” immediately sets the emotional tone with a questioning vulnerability — “Now I know I’m not so special,” a line that conveys a sense of genuineness and rawness, leaving listeners feeling seen. 

Graphic by Chloe Newton.

“I Know a Place” rises like an anthem for belonging: the powerful and hopeful chorus “I know a place we can go/Where everyone’s gonna lay down their weapons” sounds like an offering of safety and strength. In early 2018, MUNA released some acoustic versions of their songs, including “I Know a Place.” The shift was not just musical – it was political and emotional. The United States was coming out of the second month of Donald Trump’s first term in office, a time when fears around LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, and civil liberties were heightened. 

Many queer people and allies felt a renewed urgency to protect one another and speak out. In this acoustic version, it carries a sharp accusatory tone: “Even if our skin or our gods look different/I believe all human life is significant/I throw my arms open wide in resistance/He’s not my leader even if he’s my president.” The adjustment is powerful, and instead of focusing on harm already done, the new line turns toward collective resistance and resilience. This version also stripped away the glittery pop polish of the original. What remained was raw voice, raw emotion, and raw community, almost like a rally cry whispered directly into the listener’s ear. Releasing this version when they did made the song feel like a response to the moment one of MUNA’s first moments, where they leaned into visibility, encouraging their listeners to stay loud. 

Meanwhile, “Winterbreak” is icy, aching, and melodic; it captures the sting of someone who lingers in memory like cold air through a cracked window. The repeated confession “This is the love that we won’t get right”  feels painfully honest to listeners.

The standout emotional knockout comes in “If U Love Me Now”, where the lyrics depict a painful struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts, when MUNA is questioning if they are “deserving” of love and expressing a desire for their partner to leave, as heard in the line “If you love me now/ You should just let me leave.” This gives the song intimacy and a heavy feeling, but ultimately a very hopeful and important message on the exploration of mental health within a relationship.

This album to me felt like peeling back the layers of some heavy emotions- the songs explore uncovering pieces of identity, vulnerability, and power. They move between quiet introspective thoughts to glittering liberation, a duality that makes the listening experience personal and immersive. 

Some production elements blur together mid-album, creating moments where tracks sound sonically similar. However, the emotional clarity and lyrical depth keep the record grounded. 

Available on streaming platforms; physical CD copies generally retail around $10-$15 USD depending on the store and edition. 

This album discusses trauma, heartbreak, queer identity, and emotional vulnerability. The suggested sensitivity rating is PG-13 for emotional intensity and mature themes.

About U stands out with sincerity-an electrified love letter to survival, vulnerability, and chosen identity. A debut that does merely introduce MUNA, but invites listeners into a shimmering, earnest world of healing.

by jhshyphen

Review: Texas Roadhouse sets the stage with southern style

by Cherish Brown and Kaylin Bowman

“Legendary food, legendary service.”

This is the motto of a restaurant that most definitely blew us away with its Texas-themed atmosphere and incredibly delicious food. Texas Roadhouse! Texas Roadhouse is one of the great restaurants out there. Its first location opened in Clarksville, Indiana, in 1993 by Kent Taylor. The vision for Texas Roadhouse began with a dream sketched on a cocktail napkin, a dream that was soon turned into the reality that we are reviewing today.

The Texas Roadhouse we visited was 757 Lewis and Clark Parkway, Clarksville, IN. Let’s start with the looks. This restaurant is Texas-themed, and they definitely rose to the occasion. With country music in the background and an armadillo for a mascot, we’d say this is the most southern place we’ve been to.

When we got inside. It was quite busy. There were people in almost every booth. We walked through the sea of customers and got to the line to get our seats. Cherish gave them her number, and we waited for a text to let us know we could proceed to our seat. We waited and walked around the mall for about 45 minutes, and then we finally got the text. That was actually pretty good for the large number of people there.  

When we got to our table, they started us off with our drinks and asked if we wanted any appetizers. When our waiter arrived, he was very energetic and full of joy to be serving his customers, and it was a pleasure to have him as our waiter. When our waiter first came to our table, he complimented Cherish’s hair and made us laugh a lot. We had a great time with him and the other waiters in the restaurant.

We both got our drinks, Cherish got a lemonade, and Kaylin got a Dr Pepper. They were both about 4 dollars. They offer many different drinks, including Coke products, lemonade, sweet tea, and water. Ages 21+ can hang out in the bar, where they have margaritas, cocktails, beer, wine, and their famous margarita “The Legend.”

They started us off with complimentary rolls and peanuts as soon as we arrived at our table. The rolls were nice and fresh and came with two types of butter, regular and cinnamon. When Cherish bit into the roll, it burned her mouth because the rolls were so hot, but overall, they were really amazing.

When our food came to the table, it was nice and hot as well. Kaylin got the Chicken Critter dinner for $14.49, and Cherish got a kids’ mac-n-cheese for $5.99. According to Kaylin, the chicken was crispy, juicy, and flavorful, and Cherish’s mac-n-cheese was cheesy and rich,  surprisingly good for a kids’ meal. We both had fries as one of our sides, and Kaylin had corn, too. The fries were so hot they burned our mouths, but they were nicely seasoned.

Overall, the food was really good, the rolls were amazing, and we enjoyed our stay there. When it was time to pay, we both paid half; Kaylin paid with a card, while Cherish paid the rest with cash. Everything was excellent. The staff was nice, the food was spectacular, and the atmosphere was amazing. The only complaint we had was that the floors were a little dirty. Other than that, we had a great time with Texas Roadhouse’s legendary food and legendary service.

Restaurant Report Card:

The Place: Texas Roadhouse

Address: 757 Lewis and Clark Parkway, Clarksville, IN

Phone: # 812-280-1103

Hours: Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m

Reservations: https://www.texasroadhouse.com/order/action/waitlist 

Food: A+

Service:  A++

Accessibility: A

Our Grade: A+

by jhshyphen

Review: ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ is a great, sad movie

by Gabriella Kraft

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a very emotionally intelligent movie. You need that emotional intelligence to fully understand the movie and grasp what’s happening as the movie gets more intense.

This film is a single movie with no sequel. It follows Charlie, played by Logan Lerman, who is going through a lot as a freshman, suddenly being befriended by two outgoing seniors, played by Emma Watson and Ezra Miller, who begin teaching him what life is really about.

Director Stephen Chbosky has a habit of making emotionally intense movies; for example: Wonder, Nona, Dear Evan Hansen, Rent, and the live-action Beauty and the Beast. These are all very emotional, high-tension movies.

The film is set in a Pittsburgh suburb in Pennsylvania and cost $13 million. The musical score of the film goes perfectly with the movie; all the song choices fit very nicely. I liked how well they show Charlie’s anxiety, PTSD, and his slowly coming out of his shell and back into it. However, I disliked how they are seniors, and he’s a freshman; it feels like they are grooming him, especially in certain scenes.

It’s a very popular movie with a motion picture and sensitivity rating of PG-13. To showcase how popular it is, some reviews from Rotten Tomatoes say, “I think for the first film this guy who wrote the book and has adapted it for the screen has done a terrific job, and I really found these characters sympathetic.”

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a heavy, heavy book. It contains some of the hardest moments that teenagers face,” stated another critic. “I also think that there’s something so incredibly special about this book that every adult can understand.” 

There were some bad reviews, but “some” as in 2 or 3. There are a rare few who don’t like this movie, and I think it’s because they don’t fully understand it. They may have watched it too young, or they simply think it’s too heavy a topic to be in a movie. Either way, it’s a great movie to watch if you need a good cry or if you just need a really good sad movie.

Some of my favorite quotes from the movie are “We accept the love we think we deserve”, “Things change. Friends leave. Life doesn’t stop for anybody”, “ And in that moment, I swear we were infinite”, and “I would die for you. But I won’t live for you” I feel like quotes really grasp what this movie is trying to convey and just how heartfelt it really is.

I watched this movie at a young age, when I couldn’t fully understand what was going on. But as I rewatch it when I’m older, I fully grasp what’s happening now. It’s such a good movie that I feel like everybody should watch it at least once in their life. It’s crazy what age can do to someone’s understanding of certain subjects.

Movie Review Chart 

Movie Title: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller

Director: Stephen Chbosky

Writers: Stephen Chbosky

Rated: PG-13

My Grade: A

by jhshyphen

Review: The Doors’ debut album achieves perfection from top to bottom

by Tyler Conley

Before the release of the first album, way before the legacy and creation that The Doors became, no one, not even the band themselves, would realize the lasting impact they would have on the music industry and rock and roll as we know it today.

The Doors first got their kicks of being a band in 1965, playing small venues, with nervous frontman Jim Morrison turning his back on the audience as he sang to avoid stage fright. Also included were Ray Manzarek at the helm of keyboard bass and organ, Robby Krieger laying down chords and bluesy solos, and John Densmore putting down rhythms unmatched and unheard of at the time. This lineup would stick together until the eventual breakup of the band. 

When 1967 struck, it was time to record the first record. For 10 thousand dollars a 4- track recorder was purchased. With the help of Paul A. Rothchild, the band began their sessions for their self-titled debut. Rehearsal outtakes were recorded of songs that would appear on later records, but the first actual songs recorded were “I Looked at You” and “Take It as It Comes.” 

Graphic by Tyler Conley.

With the combined power and input of all band members, the band completed recording. “Light My Fire” became an instant success, reaching #1 on Billboard charts, along with “Break on Through (To the Other Side.)” At the time The Doors arrived, rock was in absolute infancy, especially when compared to today’s standards for what “rock” is. With a mixture of blues, soul, rock, and everything in between, this album is a gem for anyone a fan of those genres. 

Morrison’s lyricism is a big factor in what makes the music magical. His outlook on life, his expressions of feelings and ideas are perfect. The final song on the record, an 11-minute epic, details fighting past trauma and getting over the past. Most of the love songs the Doors would write on this record and many more are about Morrison’s longtime girlfriend, Pamela. 

Over Morrison’s life, controversy has played a big part in how people perceive him. People label the singer as a drunk, and stupid. But behind those bad, vulnerable moments is a person who was caring and compassionate. Back in the 60s, mental help wasn’t as easily accessible as it is now.

This album changed my life when I first heard it. The beautifulness of “The Crystal Ship” And “End of The Night,” and the killer tunes of “Break on through (To the Other Side)” and “Twentieth Century Fox.” These songs, and much more, make up one of the best debut albums of all time.

And if that alone isn’t enough to pique your interest, artists like Jay-Z and Lauryn Hill have sampled The Doors’ music in their works. The Doors are respected by every genre, and heavily influential.

The Doors are engraved into the heart of rock and roll, and the music industry as a whole. Jim Morrison, and all members respectively, are like cosmic brothers, and their music is there for the listener whenever they need it. When people are strange, music will always be waiting with open arms, and this album is no exception. Top to bottom, perfection.

by jhshyphen

Review: Billie Eilish changes the music industry

by Ricky Cummins

Every artist has demons that they fight. Billie Eilish is no exception. Her music captures her raw emotion as she is feeling it. Her songs “bad guy,” “Happier Than Ever” and “Bury a Friend” are all examples of such songs.

Billie Eilish has been an inspiration all my life. Ever since I was little, her song ”bad guy” played in the background. My mom found it and became obsessed with it. Some lyrics that stood out to me the most are “I’m the bad guy, Duh” and “I got bad thoughts, I got bad vibes.” These stick out to me because I grew up with mental illnesses in the family, so I could relate to the lyrics specifically.

Musically, Eilish blurs the lines between pop, alternative, and electronic, often favoring whispery vocals over minimalist, sometimes eerie productions. Her debut album “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” (2019) was a cultural reset in the music industry. Eilish was fearless when it came to singing about topics of mental health, fame, and identity. Songs like “bad guy” and “Bury A Friend” showcased her versatility, while tracks like “i love you” highlighted her emotional depth.

What sets Eilish apart is her authenticity. She doesn’t chase trends—she sets them. From her distinct fashion sense to her refusal to conform to traditional pop aesthetics, she brings a punk emotion to mainstream music. Her 2021 follow-up album Happier Than Ever showcased her growth, trading some of the earlier darkness for reflective ballads and a more mature sound, while still maintaining that signature Eilish vitality.

Billie Eilish is the voice of the anxious, the sensitive, the misunderstood. She’s reshaping what it means to be a pop star in the 21st century—providing that quiet can be as powerful as loud, and being true to yourself is the boldest move of all.

Studio AlbumsPopular Songs
When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Goxanny, all the good girls go to hell, bad guy, you should see me in a crown
Happier Than EverHappier Than Ever, NDA, Therefore I Am
Hit Me Hard And SoftL’AMOUR DE MA VIE, BIRDS OF A FEATHER, LUNCH
by jhshyphen

Review: Adele provides inspiration through her music

by Ricky Cummins

Adele has been a positive influence on me for my entire life. Ever since I was little, her music was all over the place. My mom would play Adele’s music when she was cleaning, cooking, sewing, pretty much anytime that there was a chore to do. Of course, there was other music, too. Adele stuck out the most.

Adele is an inspiration to people all around the world. She encourages individuality, finding our voices, and staying true to ourselves. She has been a trailblazer in promoting body positivity and self acceptance. 

Adele is a 36-year-old English singer-songwriter who is known for her soulful vocals and sentimental songs. She has one son, Angelo, whomich she and her ex-husband share joint custody over. They even live across the street from each other in LA to do “what is best for Angelo.”

I appreciate her music so much and\ there are some songs that just put me in a trance-like state. They make me forget about things even if it’s for three and a half minutes. So many of her songs are playful and catchy and enlightening. And some are slower and have a deeper meaning. 

Some songs that stick out to me the most are “Rolling In The Deep,” “Hello,” and “Oh My God.”

“Rolling In The Deep” sticks out to me for the reason that she sings about the displeasure and heartbreak of a past relationship. Adele sings about her anger and feelings of betrayal in the lyrics: “There’s a fire starting in my heart, reaching a fever pitch and it’s bringing me out the dark.” She creates a feeling of realization when she sees him “crystal clear,” as she doesn’t see him how she did previously. I believe that “the dark” she refers to is the disillusionment of the relationship.

Adele’s “Hello” broke the record of most views in 24 hours. At 27.7 million views, she even surpassed Taylor Sswift’s “Bad Blood” at only 20.1 million views. 

“Hello” speaks about regret and guilt. Adele admits her wrongdoings when she sings, “I must have called a thousand times, To tell you I’m sorry for everything that I’ve done.” She speaks up to honesty and boldness.

Adele sings about feeling dismissed or ignored when she sings, “To tell you I’m sorry for breaking your heart, But it don’t matter, it clearly doesn’t tear you apart anymore.”

When I first heard “Oh My God,” I imagined Adele in a room full of mirrors, walking around and searching for an escape from herself. The lyrics “I’m a fool, but they all think I’m blind, I’d rather be a fool than leave myself behind-,” reveal an internal struggle of whether or not her choices are selfish or if it’s okay to put herself first. She has the same effect when she sings, “I am a grown woman and I do what I want to do.” It’s another unfolding of her journey, a part where uncertainty pervades everything. 

Adele has had a great impact on me and countless others. Her soul and jazz music captivates many audiences all around the world.

AlbumsPopular Songs
19“Day Dreamer,” “Chasing Pavements,” Make You Feel My Love”
1988“Chasing 1988: The Intro,” “First Love (Remot remix),” “Melt My Heart To Stone (kickdrums remix)”
21“Rolling In The Deep,” “Rumor Has It,” “Turning Tables”
25“Hello,” “Love In The Dark,” “All I Ask”
30“Oh My God,” “I Drink Wine,” “Easy On Me”
by jhshyphen

Review: ‘Dragonball’ movie combines stunning visuals with well-written characters

by Keegan Fountain

A monster, a beast, Dragon Ball Z’s devil, Broly the legendary super Saiyan. 

Even if you’re not a Dragon Ball fan, chances are you’ve heard of Broly. He was first introduced on March 6, 1993, in the movie: “Dragon Ball Z: Broly the legendary super Saiyan.” He was introduced as this huge, menacing villain that was a threat to even the likes of Goku. However, his character was rewritten to fit a new movie that released Jan. 16, 2019, titled: “Dragon Ball Super: Broly.” In this review, I’ll go over both the change with this new Broly, and how he contrasts the old one.

When the movie starts, we’re placed on Planet Vegeta. We meet many characters — King Vegeta, Frieza, Bardock — but who we want to focus on is Broly. He was only an infant, but displayed immense power. To protect both his planet and his pride, King Vegeta sends Broly off to another planet, Vampa. Broly’s father, Paragus, steals a spaceship and flies after him, finding and training his son for 40 years due to them being stranded. 

After Frieza makes a move and steals 6 of the 7 dragon balls from Goku and the others, they track the last one down to intercept Frieza and his soldiers. However, that’s when they meet Broly, and Paragus immediately recognizes Vegeta as Prince Vegeta’s son. He sends Broly after him, and there’s a huge fight with Vegeta and Goku versus Broly, each of them pushing their limits and going through multiple forms. The fight eventually ends with Goku and Vegeta fusing into Gogeta, defeating Broly before he is ultimately teleported back to Vampa. Goku befriends a calmed down Broly and that’s where the movie ends.

This movie is beautifully written. The visuals are stunning, the characters are extremely well written, and I can never stop admiring the story in this film — it always makes me smile.

Another nod to an old Dragon Ball Z movie, the fusion Gogeta was first introduced in the 1995 movie: “Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn,” where Gogeta was made to defeat Janemba. They both share similar characteristics, despite Gogeta being more serious in his first appearance, so I won’t stay on him.

The differences between Z Broly and Super Broly are obvious. Z Broly is more one dimensional and flat, while Super Broly is much more developed and characterized. Z Broly was made purely for the instance of having a villain stronger than Goku, and that’s evident in his size and muscle mass. However, Super Broly was made to turn Broly into a more deep and sympathetic character. He is soft spoken, honest, kind, and only fights with Goku and Vegeta because his father wants (and forces) him to. There’s a moment near the middle of the movie that really shows Broly’s difference in the two versions of him.

After Broly and Paragus are found and rescued by Cheelai and Lemo, Frieza Force soldiers, Cheelai offers Broly proper food. Broly takes it and scarfs it down, but after which he is reminded by his father to use his manners. He thanks Cheelai, and even tries to replicate her little thank-you gesture she does. It’s also shown at the end when Goku befriends Broly. Broly doesn’t attack Goku at all, letting him speak and even smiling as he leaves.

This movie is a beautiful representation of the difference between two versions of one character that can be made. It also shows the symbolism between Dragon Ball characters. The world of Dragon Ball is met by two kinds of characters, good and evil. Without the good, the evil takes over and tips the scale, and if there’s no evil, vise versa. Broly perfectly shows this, because good and evil of him exist, both movies showing what could happen if he is good or evil. What I’m trying to say is, Broly perfectly encapsulates the path characters in Dragon Ball can go — they’re either Goku’s friend, like Vegeta, or his enemy, like Frieza.

This movie is beautifully written. The visuals are stunning, the characters are extremely well written, and I can never stop admiring the story in this film — it always makes me smile.

Movie title: Dragon Ball Super: Broly

Starring: Christopher Sabat, Vic Mignogna, and Sean Schemmel

Director: Tatsuya Nagamine, Kazuo Ogura (Art director), and Naohiro Shintani (Animation director)

Writer: Akira Toriyama

Rated: PG

My Grade: A

Platforms to watch: Disney Plus, Hulu, and Crunchyroll

by jhshyphen