Today's Pick

Katie Armiger has premiered a new video on KILT (Radio Studio 100.3) for her latest high-octane pop ditty single "Best Song Ever," which is the third single from Armiger's recently-released third album "Confessions of a Nice Girl." The album begins with the perky and happy melody of "Best Song Ever," a tune she co-wrote with Amanda Flynn and Bruce Wallace, that belies the darker undertones of what is really going on in the mind of this young woman. This little piece of pop-country fluff is your go-to happy song whenever you need a pick-me-up.
The storyline for song is that Armiger has just been through a bad breakup, but one day when driving through town, she hears a love song on the radio that somehow gives her new hope that her relationship can be rekindled! She is thrilled at the prospect! She turns up the volume and shouts her hopeful excitement for all the world to hear. At one point, she seems to doubt herself for a moment, as she takes a moment to reassure herself "I'm not crazy - You still want me, don't you baby?" But she quickly pushes such thinking out of her mind, and once again relishes the joy of having found her perfect love's "perfect soundtrack."
Granted, this does sound a lot more like pop than country. The arrangement is mainly built on pop-heavy drumbeats and guitars, with a mandolin supplying the country flavor. But even though it is essentially pop, the arrangement still sounds happy, and fits the mood of the song. Even the mandolin sounds happy, rather than sounding out-of-place among the track's pop flavorings. Does this song live up to its title? Is it really Armiger's "Best Song Ever"? Maybe not. Is is unrealistic? Of course it is. But listen to Armiger's energetic delivery of this song - she sure sounds like she believes it! A playful and bouncy melody pushes the song's hookiness through the roof. I've always loved the sound of Armiger's voice, but when she decides to play the catchy card, I find her darn near irresistible. Just try listening to "Best Song Ever" in the car with the windows rolled down and the volume turned up. Then you'll understand.
From Sugar Land of Texas, the newcomer Armiger's powerful vocals and skillful songwriting are clearly showcased on her new music. At the ripe age of 19, Armiger does not hold back and has an inspiring combination of determination and passion that shines through in her music. Rarely do you hear of a young artist whose vocal ability and talent is compared to the likes of seasoned country artists like Sara Evans and Martina McBride, but Armiger, who burst onto the country music scene is just that. Confident, secure, bold, assertive, vulnerable and in-your-face could all describe the songs on the new album, "Confessions of a Nice Girl," as well as the artist who sings them. Armiger has just scratched the surface of what she is capable of. She is a passionate and driven performer well beyond her years.