New Music from Grace Lionato

"Broken Wings" - by Grace Lionato

Release Date: January 21, 2025

What You Should Know: "This new single “Broken Wings” is going to be a part of an album I’m releasing very soon. This song is about finding your independence and figuring out what that means for you. I hope this song can bring some peace to the people who listen, as writing it gave me peace."

Find It: Everywhere, like  Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "It's 2025 in Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Grace Lionato Visits Section 36 Music!"

Boston’s Savoir Faire announces debut studio album Hopeless Nostalgic, out January 31st.

With a voice straight out of the jazz age, Savoir Faire brings the modern existential crisis into a realm of retro noir with Hopeless Nostalgic. 

“ I am a very nostalgic person,” states the singer/guitarist. “And indeed, hopelessly so, at times. I have to remind myself not to live in the past, whether it's my past or the comforting allure of music, fashion, etc, from times past. That nostalgia feels very conflicted, because when you peel back the layers of those times, you reveal very imperfect and problematic eras. Memory can be very deceiving.” 

Fans of Savoir Faire will recognize singles such as “Sweet” and “Think Twice,” songs that landed on year end “best of” lists in 2022, as well as the more recently released “Machine with a Dream,” which coincided with a music video conceived by Savoir Faire and directed by Blake Larson. Aided by the production skills of Dave Brophy, Hopeless Nostalgic highlights both Savoir Faire’s jazz training as well as her ability to shred, balancing lounge singer sensibilities with heavier instrumentation. This blend of genres has earned Savoir Faire nominations as singer-songwriter of the year (Boston Music Awards 2023), jazz act of the year (New England Music Awards), and post-punk act of the year (Motif Awards).

With songs like “Only Fools (Betarseed)”, in which the Iranian American singer addresses the “Women, Life Freedom Movement” (aptly assisted by the dark instrumentation of composer Via Mardot), Hopeless Nostalgic begs the question “what if a torch singer wanted to join the Riot Grll movement instead of serving the male gaze? The answer is Hopeless Nostalgic, an album that begins with the sardonic “Curtains Up,” a dramatic noir ballad, and ends with the album’s title track, a melancholic yearning for the comforts of the past. 

Hopeless Nostalgic’s title track, first released in April of 2023, also gets a new life for the album’s release with a music video directed by Kat Holms. Filmed mainly in an antique warehouse full of relics of the past, the music video aims for the jugular with its nostalgia, referencing notable album covers of the 90’s that will pull at the heartstrings of those whose formative years were accompanied by the era’s songwriters.  

Presave "Hopeless Nostalgic" now before its release on January 31!

Get to Know Treble On Huntington Better

Treble On Huntington is Northeastern University's first all-

women a cappella group, who "showcase the unique styles of their soloists along with the hard work and artistry of the entire group." 

What kinds of experiences to group members have? What are some of their favorite group activities? Which is their favorite memory? I asked the members of the Treble On Huntington that very question to try to find out. It looks like a couple reasons came to the forefront.

Some members really enjoyed the chance to bond as a group. Member Alyssa specifically called out a trip the group too when she said, “Recently we went on a retreat to New Hampshire and that was a great opportunity to get to know people better outside of the context of rehearsal and have fun together. I especially enjoyed playing board games with the other members.”. Sarah, another member echoed that by adding, “We went to a bed and breakfast in New Hampshire and it was so fun to get to bond with everyone.” Shir added onto that by including, “We got really close through the trip, joked around together, and made some incredible memories.” Mya mentioned that, “I felt like it brought us all so much closer and allowed us to make memories outside of our usual setting.”. Which is such an important part of any group outing, isn’t it? The chance to see everyone in a different light under differences and bond over that common experience. Especially when Mika included "Retreat in New Hampshire was definitely one of the most memorable experiences, especially our attempt to jump-start our car.”. That’s something I feel like I need a longer story about.

Other members recalled a specific performance the group had. Eve recalled, “The most memorable experience I've had with Treble has been performing at ICCAs last year for the first time. I was so nervous but the more experienced girls were there for me the whole time and encouraged me to go out and leave it all on stage! While we weren't successful competition-wise, that day grew my confidence in my performing abilities significantly, and made me feel so grateful for my a cappella community”. Edom seconded those feelings when she added, “I loved getting to sing with treble in a fun and relaxed environment.”. The tip even went beyond singing, when Abigail added, “It was a great trip full of masterclasses and music, and then some of us ended the weekend at Universal Studios, which was just so much fun.”. Another member added that going to NACC and, “gaining valuable experience from experts was amazing and really helped our group grow!” The trip was also a bonding experience of itsown, much like New Hampshire. Nat remembered, “We got to travel together, sing and perform, and take masterclasses as a group to perfect our techniques. We also spent time with other groups and overall had a great time.” Member Katia added one more element to the trip when she said, “We had so much fun singing with other groups and hanging out together at the pool and around Orlando. Hopefully we’ll raise enough money to come back next year.” I know I certainly hope they do too.

One last favorite moment came from Toni Rose. By the sounds of it, everything really fell together when she said, “This fall, we held a Friendsgiving at one of our members' houses, and at this point in the semester, we had all already gotten very close. When we sat down to eat our meal together, we decided to say things we were thankful for and try not to say Treble because that was the obvious answer. By the end of the meal, everyone was crying after we ended up talking about how much everyone at that table meant to us and I will forever remember how meaningful that dinner was.”

And that’s what it’s all about. I love the idea of the group spending so much time together and really forming those friendships that make Treble on Huntington so special. Hopefully that continues going on from here.

Thanks to all the members of Treble on Huntington for sharing their thoughts with us.You definitely owe it to yourself to check out this group as soon as you can. Follow them on their socials: Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube. Also be sure to visit their website. And if you get the chance to see them perform in person, don't miss out. It's an experience you need to take in for yourself. 

And be sure to say you saw them in Section 36!

Keyaa Hira Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Keyaa Hira is fresh off the release of her EP "Chapter One", which you absolutely need to listed to as soon as you can! I was so thrilled she wanted to visit with us to discuss the EP, her musical goals, and more!

So, let's see what happens when Keyaa Hira visits Section 36 Music!

I’m a big fan of your EP, “Chapter One”. What can you tell me about it?

Thank you so much, I’m so happy you like it!

‘Chapter One’ is my very first project, and it’s one that is always going to be close to my heart. The EP is a reflection of experiences I have undergone in my life. Each of the four songs in it speak on a different core experience in my life. 

‘Home’ is a song about embracing my sensitivity and speaking out about my mental health, even though through the years, I have been told to hide it from the world and change the way that I feel and express emotions. 

‘Convey’ is a song about a relationship that’s falling apart and unhealthy. I wrote the song by putting myself in the shoes of my parents (sorry mom and dad) as they experienced and reevaluated their marriage. It was hard, but a very important experience for me to have. 

‘All That’s Left’ is a song that I actually wrote while doing an object writing exercise on the topic ‘puddle’. It grew into something so relatable for me. I wrote it when I had recently turned 18, which was quite a confusing age. The song is one about nostalgia and wanting to be a child again, even though it’s impossible to go back. 

Finally, ‘Bittersweet’ is a song I wrote at the time of my graduation. I’ve never been great with endings or change, and was able to express the mixed emotions I was feeling at the time when I wrote it. 

‘Chapter One’ is like a window into my life and felt cathartic for me to share. Each song is an authentic expression of my emotions, and they also helped me process my own experiences with better self-awareness. 

Do you have a favorite memory from the recording process?

Overall, the experience of recording this EP was amazing, seeing my vision come to life with the help of my producer was beautiful. I think my favourite part of the recording process was layering the harmonies in the studio! I’m a huge fan of layers and layers of harmonies, and incorporating that into my songs felt like a full circle moment for me. 

Do you see more studio work in your future?

Definitely! I have a lot of songs I’ve just written in the last year, and I am keen to share with the world soon. Stay tuned! :) 

What do you enjoy most about performing in front of a live audience? 

The sense of belonging and seeing my audience relate to my music is so rewarding. It makes me realise that though intense experiences feel personal, they’re actually quite universal, and there’s something very healing about that because you see that you aren’t alone. 

When I perform for live audiences, I feel connected to my audience and music. It’s like we’re having an open and honest conversation with each other, and it’s really beautiful. It also reminds me about how music brings people together, and that’s what it’s all about for me. 

What is your biggest musical challenge?

I think it’s really hard for me to write about happier experiences, I usually write to express more intense and complex emotions. I also put a lot of pressure on myself as an artist to be perfect, and that can get overwhelming. 

What are your immediate music goals?

I really want to finish working on my songs I’ve written over the past year, and see the vision in my head come to life. I’m really excited about it and can’t wait to release new music as soon as I can.

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New music definitely sounds exciting to me!

As always, I want to thank Keyaa for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram, and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again Keyaa, and good luck reaching your goals!

Get to know Treble On Huntington

Treble On Huntington is Northeastern University's first all-women a cappella group, who "showcase the unique styles of their soloists along with the hard work and artistry of the entire group." 

How does a group like this come together? What makes all of these incredible performers want to try out for such a group? I asked the members of the Treble On Huntington that very question to try to find out. It looks like a couple reasons came to the forefront.

For some, it was just a lifelong love of singing. Treble on Huntington could help them continue something they enjoyed.

Group member Alyssa summed it up by saying “I have always loved singing and fell in love with a cappella in high school when I joined my school's group! I knew I wanted to join a group in college and especially loved the welcoming atmosphere of Treble on Huntington. I felt the most at home there during my auditions compared to any other group and was so glad when I was offered a spot to join!”

Another member, Sarah, echoed that point and took it one step further by adding, “I have always loved singing and I loved the welcoming and loving atmosphere I felt from Treble during auditions”. Clearly, the love of music doesn’t make up the whole reason. You need the right place to grow that love. Which is why member Nat Christopher honed in on Treble on Huntington. “I knew I wanted to continue music in college and I wanted to try something new. I was immediately drawn to Treble's powerful and feminine energy, and tried out as soon as I could!”

Keeping with the “more than just music” theme, some members craved the social side of Treble on Huntington. Group member Mya really exemplified that concept when she said, “I had a really hard year and cut off all of my friends I'd had since freshman year. I started rebuilding my social circle and wanted to be part of an all-girls group of some sort to help me find good people that shared a common interest with me. I also missed performing like I did in high school, so this was the perfect option.” Group member Eve echoed that when she said, “When I began college at Northeastern, I struggled to find a group of kind, supportive girls. I was a performer in high school and being in college without a creative outlet or a solid friend group was incredibly difficult. I decided to join Treble on Huntington not only so I could express my love for music, but also to form friendships with like-minded, strong women who share my passion.” Which I think really gets to the point of any good club.

Those strings of community also pulled on group members Edom, who “wanted to be a part of a community that allowed me to express my love for music and treble was the perfect fit for me.” As well as Shir, “I was looking for a sense of community on campus through a shared interest of music and passion for singing. I also wanted a group of people that share interests and deeper values beyond music, and people I can be comfortable and my true self around.”

So, you want a place where you can pursue your love of music. You want a community made up of some amazing women. But, why Treble of Huntington? Member Mika knew right away. “After seeing Treble on Huntington perform at the Fall Showcase at the start of the semester, I knew right away that I wanted to join. Their bond and energy were so vibrant, and I could see the genuine joy they all shared for singing.”

Another member “really appreciated the healthy balance between working hard on music and also having time to be friends outside of that, and Treble really embodies this!” Which is such an important thing, to find that balance.

Treble on Huntington definitely seems to make a good first impression. Like Mika, Katia was also hooked immediately. “I spoke to them at our fall club fair and everyone was so sweet and seemed so excited to be part of the group that it made me want to join!” Member Toni Rose closed it out by explaining, “Singing has always brought me more joy than anything else so I've always wanted to pursue it, and a cappella is the perfect way to do that. When I auditioned at Northeastern, Treble was the most welcoming and friendly group by far, and I knew right in that audition room that this was the group I wanted more than anything. “

You really can’t put it any better than that.

Whatever the reason, you can sense that every member is glad they signed up for the experience!

Thanks to all the members of Treble on Huntington for sharing their thoughts with us.You definitely owe it to yourself to check out this group as soon as you can. Follow them on their socials: Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube. Also be sure to visit their website. And if you get the chance to see them perform in person, don't miss out. It's an experience you need to take in for yourself. 

And be sure to say you saw them in Section 36!

Grace Lionato Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Grace Lionato just released her amazing single "Breathe U In", which I'm sure you all adore as much as I do! I was so thrilled she wanted to visit with us to discuss the song, her musical goals, and more!

So, let's see what happens when Grace Lionato visits Section 36 Music!

I really enjoyed your recent single, “Breathe U In”. What can you tell me about it?

My newest release “Breathe U In” is one of my most polished songs yet. The song has elements of dark pop and 2000s rock influences, outlining an eerie yet unique sound. The lyrics are inspired by the idea of holding on to someone who is now gone, whether through a literal death or the death of a version of person you once knew. This “death” could also be the death of a version of yourself, whether for better or for worse. 

Do you have a favorite memory from the recording process?

One of my favorite memories during the recording process was hearing the guitar solo for the first time with my twin sister, Mariella. A basic outline of the solo  was commissioned to guitarist Elizabeth Cannon, a friend of my producer, and man my sister and I were blown away. She took my idea and amped it up to something insane. I played it in my car and when we got to the solo, our jaws were dropped, it was absolutely perfect for the rest of my song.

You are attending Berklee College of Music. What made Berkee the right choice for you?

Berklee College of Music was just one of those schools for me where if I didn’t get in I wouldn’t be going to college. It is such a privilege to be surrounded by people with the same passions and ambitions as you, I believe it’s made me a better person and musician. Not to mention the opportunities I’ve gotten to be apart of have changed the trajectory of my career into more than I could imagine.

Do you see more studio work in your future?

I definitely see more studio work in the future…especially because I have an album coming out 2/11/25.  With 9 original songs (including my new single “Breathe U In”) it’s going to be awesome and not something you’ll wanna miss!

What is your biggest musical challenge?

My biggest musical challenge is probably my own mental obstacles. When you’re surrounded by amazing musicians all the time, while it is inspiring, it can also be incredibly frustrating to just focus on yourself and not compare yourself to others. I find that when I feel overwhelmed or down about myself I have to change my focus, and remind myself of all the great things that I’ve done! Also to remind myself that I am not defined by what other people think of me.

What are your immediate music goals?

My immediate goals for my music is to have my album out on 2/11/25, as well as share my playing with other people! I’m in a couple other bands that I am very passionate about. One of the main things I find very important to remember is that as musicians we need to build each other up, not tear each other down. I want all my bands and myself to succeed equally. I just love music and I love making people feel wholeheartedly. 

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I definitely can't wait to watch her reach all of her goals.

As always, I want to thank Grace for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram, and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again Grace, and good luck reaching your goals!

New Music from Grace Lionato, Michelle Rose, Sophia B, Alexa Name, Gracie Modean, Sofia Devitt

"Breathe U In" - by Grace Lionato

Release Date: December 27, 2024

What You Should Know: "This song has been such an amazing experience and the people I’ve gotten to work with are incredible."

Find It: Everywhere, like  Apple or Spotify

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"When We're Rich" - by Michelle Rose

Release Date: December 27, 2024

What You Should Know: "This is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever worked on. Huge thank you to everyone who worked on this project!"

Find It: Everywhere, like  Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2024 Sounded Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Michelle Rose Visits Section 36 Music!"

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"Mr. Wrong" - by Sophia B

Release Date: December 28, 2024

What You Should Know: "If you need to take that difficult step of saying goodbye to Mr. Wrong, Let this be your anthem this New Year. Whether he has a dismissive avoidant attachment style, a narcissist, a player or he’s just the wrong guy for you. You deserve better. Walk away from Mr. Wrong to the beat of this New Song."

Find It: Everywhere, like Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2024 Sounded Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Sophia B Visits Section 36 Music!"

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"No Words" - Alexa Name 

Release Date: January 3, 2025

What You Should Know: "This track is seriously one of my absolute favorites, and there’s so much behind it that makes it so special to me."

Find It: Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "It's 2025 in Section 36", "What 2024 Sounded Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Alexa Name Visits Section 36 Music!"

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"Face It" - by Gracie Modean

Release Date: January 3, 2025

What You Should Know: "This single from Gracie is definitely one you won't want to miss!"

Find It: Everywhere, like Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "It's 2025 in Section 36", "What 2024 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Gracie Modean Visits Section 36 Music!"

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"Good For Me" - by Sofia Devitt

Release Date: January 3, 2025

What You Should Know: "Around this time last year I was home for winter break and itching to record this song so me and @joshwurzmusic started COOKIN. We recorded all of the parts within that day and I looove the way it turned out, it sounds like you’re right in the room with us!."

Find It: Everywhere, like Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: ""It's 2025 in Section 36", "What 2024 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Sofia Devitt Visits Section 36 Music!"