From barbershop quartet to metal, Borrelli writes it all. All songs are entirely composed, played, sung, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Anthony in his basement.
Below you can find both released and unreleased compositions that he has spent years writing and recording.
Politics (Released 07/26/24)
Fed up with growing partisan division and hostility, Borrelli channeled his frustration into a light-hearted yet powerful musical statement. Through this piece, Borrelli reflects the growing feelings of political disillusionment among the American people, providing a message that individuals of all political beliefs can resonate with: it is time that we unite as one nation.
The contrast between an upbeat chord progression and a light melody with heavy-hitting lyrics satirizes the divided state of the nation and mirrors the growing confusion of the electorate. Through an intentionally raw sound, Borrelli expresses his true, unfiltered dissatisfaction from the heart.
With his layered vocals, banjos, and whistles, Borrelli creates a "campfire" environment where all are singing along, reflecting the shared fatigue of the American people regarding politics: 65% of Americans feel exhausted by politics and 55% feel angry.
With his ending on a D7, which feels unresolved, Anthony signals to his listeners that there is still much work left to be done; we must seek out common ground and listen to differing opinions and perspectives, growing alongside one another to regain the sense of unity that defines the United States.
One nation, under God, indivisible.
After learning about labor history from school, stories of his great-great grandfather's union work for the ACWA, and economic discussions with his father, Borrelli composed "Overseas" to raise awareness of horrible factory conditions worldwide and fundraise for the Global March Against Child Labor—donate today!
Similar to "Politics," Borrelli juxtaposes a cheery chord progression and light instrumentation with tragic messages, reflecting how while our "shirts, shoes, and electronics" may seem wonderful on the outside, many times the labor that sources them is unethical and disturbing.
Lyrically, Anthony satirically presents the overseas factory as a "magical place," while sarcastically praising its "great" pay, hours, and safety regulations. Through this clever and edgy lyricism, Borrelli not only captures the attention of his listeners but also opens their eyes to the absurd and dark reality of current labor violations. Vocally and instrumentally, Borrelli crafts a raw and natural sound to deliver a genuine, heartbreaking call to action directly to his audience.
Did you notice? Listen to the song's last line (Ooooh, workin' till you die for just a dime). The vocal harmonies on "Ooooh" mimic the sound of a classic factory whistle, immersing the audience into the factories he sings of to drive the message home even further.
With his song "Eyes," Borrelli takes the "love song" to a whole new level. Experimenting with changing time signatures (5/4 and 6/4), powerful dynamic contrast, building instrumentation, and majestic harmonies, Borrelli crafts an emotional and moving piece that captures what it means to love.
The first half of the song—with its bouncing, march-like verses, and soft-sung choruses—represents the playful stages of developing love. Then, the piece suddenly shifts to a heavy guitar solo and a dramatic bridge, evoking the feeling of transcendence that accompanies finding true love. After a powerful chorus of layered vocals, big guitars, heavy drums, and strings, Borrelli then brings the listener to a quiet lullaby, resembling the peace and comfort that one can find in another person.
In this heartfelt piece, Borrelli tells the story of a traveling musician who can only bring happiness to others, not himself. While he plays at the bar, everyone smiles, laughs, dances, and sings. Yet, although he is a star on the stage, he ultimately returns home to a life of loneliness and despair.
Below is his debut performance at Needham High School Winterfest (12/6/2024):
It's time that barbershop quartets make a comeback.
In this piece, Borrelli presents a modern, yet classic-at-heart, barbershop quartet song for a fictional girl named Annie Rose. Its joyful melody, exciting close harmony, and unexpected chord changes capture the spirit of a classic and passionate romance.
WORKS IN PROGRESS
Below you will find song ideas currently in the making! Expected release is April 2025.
In this song, which is currently in progress, Borrelli pulls listeners in with fast-paced and catchy guitar riffs supported by a heavy bass line and powerful drums. This song must be blasted out of your speakers with all the windows down.
In this piece, which is currently in progress, Borrelli experiments with a catchy synth line and groovy rhythms that pull the audience in for an exciting ride that feels reminiscent of a summer night out.