Goooooooood morning, SOTB Faithful. You’ve probably seen that I’ve gone Super Saiyan with my reviews to the point I’ve cleared out my archives. That’s a great feeling, especially considering how things looked a week or so ago. That said, I’ve still got a few tracks that I still need to get to before most of the new comes up. Two of these tracks are Maty Noyes’ “Ambience and Apple Pie” and Glou-Glou’s “Drink Slowly.”

You’re probably wondering why I’m pulling a two-fer here. I usually avoid them (as it feels lazy). However, these two pulled it out of me. Simply put, the songs have different sounds but similar subjects in that they both talk about life and its intricacies.

First, let’s talk “A&A.” The song focuses on marching to the rhythm of your own percussion section and being that MFer. It also focuses on group mentalities and substances. Sonically, the song reminds me of something that you’d hear from an artist in the vein of Lana Del Rey, circa her earlier pre-2015 stuff. Like Del Rey, Noyes’ lyrics have a slew of alternative meanings. Additionally, the song sounds lighter than the subject matter.

The song is quite airy, especially with its production sounding quite happy. It makes the topics at hand (Adderall addiction, being the Boss MFer of your group and carving out your own path) more digestible and relatable. While she isn’t advocating for Adderall misuse, there is a sympathy to the lyrics. That’s mainly because the song explains how people can be bored and then find themselves in some deep [crap]. Thankfully, no one’s still misusing Adderall and everyone is doing better in this post-pandemic world. There’s a bit of privilege, but Noyes acknowledges that throughout the song and its lyrics.

On a similar side of the same coin, “Drink Slowly” is also about a bit of opulence. However, the opulence is more celebratory and sweet at its heart versus speaking of the dangers of it all. That said, “Drink” still manages to advise listeners to be careful and go for their dreams while everything sounds pretty dang upbeat.

The instrumentalist/winemaker/producer is quite talented when it comes to his passions. If he’s able to achieve what he has, you can do what you desire and eventually celebrate you win(s). Essentially, while this one isn’t as dark, it does revolve around refreshing oneself in the face of life as we know it. Overall, I absolutely love the instrumentation here. Not a second—nor a note—is wasted here, like a fine wine. Like “A&A,” the song also focuses on enjoying the small things. So, drink slowly and enjoy!

Check out these different but similar songs below and remember to support dope music in all its forms.