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I'm going to go out on a limb and say that I've never been a big fan of breakups. The lingering feelings, the uncertainty, the dreaded visit to collect your forgotten sweatshirts, it's safe to say that breakups do not give us the "spring vibes" that many of us are clamoring for as the flowers start to bloom. Luckily, this week singer-songwriter Annika Bennett returns to us with "Universe," a bittersweet breakup banger that manages to flip the time-tested trope on its head.  

Over dreary and dejected piano chords, "Universe" sees our hero steadily coming to the realization that there does indeed exist a universe outside of her once-significant other. It tugs on your heartstrings in all the right ways, while still crossing a broad emotional register to leave listeners with a little pep in their step.  

Though I'm not usually one for breakup anthems, It's hard to ignore how remarkably well-written "Universe" is, especially when comparing it to similar work made by her peers. From the track's brilliant melodic contour to her painstakingly-polished writing, Bennett establishes herself immediately in a lane of her own. Her dulcet tones not only decorate the nostalgic piano tracks and string swells of  "Universe," but the mix serves as the perfect foundation for Bennett to make me believe that I myself am reeling from a romance that has reached its fatal conclusion.

With an EP slated for April 22, "Universe" serves as the perfect introduction to those who are uninitiated to Bennett's masterful songwriting prowess. It's no surprise that her talents have led her to write for other artists, such at OTW alum Lexi Jayde, but luckily this time around the spotlight is squarely concentrated on herself. Though this is only the second release that the LA-based artist has delivered us this year, Bennett is quickly making a strong case for 2022 being her year.  

Listen to  "Universe" below: