August 26, 2021

Written By Shanya Olivares

PENNY BOARD TOUCHES ON THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN THEIR NEW SONG "GEMINI"

For those of you who enjoy discovering up-and-coming artists, this review might heavily interest you. Today we’re introducing you to Faith Alesia, who runs a solo project under the name penny bored —pretty cool name. Alesia recently released a single titled “Gemini” and merch to go along with its release, which looks amazing, and an interactive pre-save option before the single was released where you could create your own ‘Gemini’ icon! 

Penny Bored is a Texas-based alternative pop band, their first release being back in November 2020, we’ve gotten a total of 4 songs from them since then. Recently, they’ve released the track “Gemini”, which has gotten a lot of press and recognition since it was released on August 18th, which is deserved since the song is highly virtuous. 

Gemini, the zodiac sign designated to those born between May 21st to June 21st, is represented by the twins, something Alesia is very heavily trying to hint here. The song is an anthem for all those who love the alt pop sound, and an inspiration for Alesia. The song, based on Alesia’s take on their bipolar disorder and their identity as a non-binary artist, has helped them feel less alone, here’s what they had to say about it: 

“It’s been difficult to navigate and I felt like I was hiding a huge part of myself. Luckily, now I no longer feel like I have to hide - it doesn't feel so scary knowing that I have such a great support system. I know I'm not alone in this and I want others to know they're not alone in this either.”

• Fath Alesia on their single “Gemini”

If you were to look at the penny bored Instagram, you’d see a video of Alesia dancing around to their newest release. There’s no better way to describe the vibe of this song than to point you to see that video yourself! The lyrics and the melody seem like it’s personal to Alesia, which is noted by their explanation and clarification that their sign is indeed a Gemini. You can also click on the link in their bio to play the Gemini game and make your own Gemini inspired icon. 

The song starts with a soft melody, adding the emotion that Alesia feels and a conversation regarding how they feel. Yet, I can see the aspect of acceptance Alesia follows throughout the song, and it’s completely admirable!! We hit the chorus about 45 seconds in and then we get the upbeat and alternative sound that many fans enjoy, and this includes my favorite part of the song and the part I’ll be listening to for the next few days. 

Faith shows us that music can be personal and used for self-reflection and acceptance, we can’t see what they come up with next!