At just 22, Nashville-based Caroline Romano continues to prove herself as a formidable force in the indie pop-rock scene with her latest single, “Body Bag”. This track is a testament to Romano’s growing artistry, seamlessly blending commercial pop sensibilities with edgy rock elements to create a sound that’s both familiar and refreshingly unique.
“Body Bag” is quintessential Romano – an anthemic, pulsating track that wouldn’t sound out of place in an indie movie soundtrack. The production is a rich tapestry of sound, featuring glitchy elements and a thumping bass that stutters through the chorus, leading into an Olivia Rodrigo-esque guitar breakdown in the post-chorus. This intricate instrumentation provides the perfect backdrop for Romano’s dreamy indie-pop vocals, which float effortlessly over fuzzy guitars, rousing percussion, and sparkling synths.
Lyrically, “Body Bag” tackles the weighty theme of growing up and confronting life’s harsh realities. Romano herself describes the song as “a peak behind the curtain at the reality of modern romance and feeling young and old at the same time.” This duality is reflected in the song’s sonic landscape, with its numerous ups and downs mirroring the tumultuous nature of young adulthood.
Romano’s ability to transform raw emotions into anthemic bliss is on full display here, much like in her recent singles “Doesn’t Matter” and “Used By You”. She paints a vivid picture of chasing an idealized version of youth – “running barefoot on the concrete, chasing something you can’t quite put your finger on, but running towards it nonetheless.”
“Body Bag” is more than just a song; it’s a masterful study of being a young woman in today’s world. Romano’s trademark rawness, lack of pretense, and introspective lyrics shine through, creating a piece that’s simultaneously anguished, hedonistic, and deeply reflective.
As Romano continues to evolve as an artist, “Body Bag” stands as another impressive milestone in her journey. It showcases her versatility, effortlessly bridging the gap between misty-eyed ballads and fiery alt-rock anthems. With her high-energy live performances gaining recognition and her first US tour under her belt, Caroline Romano is undoubtedly an artist on the rise, and “Body Bag” is a thrilling indication of what’s to come.
Review by Hannah Schneider