Just a few weeks ago, The Project, those sonic explorers from the sun-drenched foothills of Upland, California, had us swaying to the bittersweet beauty of “Over You.” Today, they return, guitars blazing and spirits soaring, with their latest masterpiece, “what’s it going to take,” featuring the electrifying vocals of 23-year-old Mykele Hill. Released on January 19, this song is a sonic supernova, a collision of classic rock’s thunderous energy and Mykele’s soulful fire, igniting a cathartic journey through love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of understanding. Now, “what’s it going to take” if you don’t stick with me and read my thoughts on the song? So, relax and enjoy this beautiful review.

From the opening riff, a riff that would make any listener proud to be a fan, The Project lays bare the raw emotions of love on the brink. James Davis’s vocals then dive in, raw and relatable: “Sitting here alone on the edge of this bed where good love was made and dreams were all shared.” The lyrics unpack the familiar sting of a love lost and the frustration of knowing you can’t rekindle what once burned so bright. But just as despair threatens to engulf, Mykele Hill’s voice enters, a sunbeam piercing the darkness. Her soulful inflections offer a counterpoint, not of denial but of quiet resilience: “What’s it gonna take to make you understand no one’s gonna love you the way I can.” Hill’s vocals bring a refreshing dynamic to The Project’s heavier sound. It’s beautiful and it elevates the song to new heights. The synergy between them is undeniable—a yin and yang of rock that creates tension as electrifying as a lightning strike.

The lyrics themselves are a poignant exploration of resilience in the face of doubt. “what’s it going to take,” asks the chorus, a question echoing through valleys of disappointment and scaling the peaks of hope. The song doesn’t shy away from the darkness, acknowledging the scars and struggles that line the path to personal growth. But it also refuses to be consumed by them. Instead, it seeks the answer in the depths of the human spirit, in the unwavering belief that even the most shattered heart can find its rhythm again. It’s a call to action, an invitation to join the chorus and shout back at the darkness, and a reminder that even when life throws its worst punches, we have the power to rise above and find the light within ourselves and each other.

The production, on the other hand, is masterful, layering the raw power of rock with subtle sonic textures. Each note feels intentional, propelling the story forward. The guitars snarl and shimmer, the drums pound with unwavering urgency, and the piano adds a touch of melancholy that underscores the song’s emotional depth. It’s a sonic tapestry woven with equal parts grit and grace, perfectly capturing the spirit of both The Project and Mykele Hill.

And all of these said, dear reader, is the magic of “what’s it going to take.” It’s not just a song; it’s a spark, a whisper of hope that travels on the wings of melody. It’s a reminder that, even when the road seems endless, we’re never truly alone. So crank up the volume, let The Project and Mykele Hill guide you along this sonic journey, and remember: the answer to “what’s it going to take?” might just be the courage to keep singing.

Listen to “what’s it going to take” by The Project feat. Mykele Hill on Spotify and let us know your thoughts.

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