Song Review/ Pop Rock : Ava Valianti’s ‘Sophomore Slump’
Ava Valianti can make even being in a slump or a rut feel glamorous. That's exactly what she does in her latest release, ‘Sophomore Slump’. It’s a pop rock song that explores the state of feeling aimless and distorted by self-doubt and failure. It’s incredible how she employs commercial pop through a classic rock parlance with a muted country weave.
Her vocals carry us so candidly through the experience. They are strong and emphatic, owning the feeling while also trying to make sense of it. The relatable lyrical moments and charismatic songwriting have a way of making you feel lighter about it, especially if you’re in the same space. While the vocals anchor, the soundscape just exists in a floating state around it, weaving in moments of vulnerability. In the chorus however, she employs a strong riff break, a remarkable chord to create a catchy hook that you look forward to as you circle back to it.
