After a number of successful radio hits and a spot on the Winter Jam tour, Veridia is back with a new EP entitled Pretty Lies. These four brand new songs (and one remix) showcase what we've come to expect from Veridia: a mixture of electronic and hard rock with Deena Jakoub's soaring vocals.

The EP kicks off with the rocker "Crazy in a Good Way," reflecting how crazy it is for God to love us as sinners. With its catchy, repetitive chorus, this song will become a staple at concerts. "Pretty Lies" is a slower electronic song about how the world dupes us into insecurities such as the need to feel beautiful and powerful. The message is very universal, and though the repetitive chorus does get a little old, the song is still worth a listen. Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire offers guest vocals here, and his voice mixes nicely with Jakoub's.

"At the End of the World" showcases what Veridia does best: combining rock, electronic, and orchestra together to make a memorable song. The song finds Jakoub singing about how nothing but God matters, even during the apocalypse. "Say a Prayer" is the EP's sole ballad, which is a passionate song about how we need to pray for those around the world who are hurting, reminding listeners that no matter how much they hurt, there is always someone out there who is hurting more. The song shows the vulnerability of the human condition, and makes it clear that everyone needs to come together as one. Jakoub's vocals are sincere and emotional in all the right ways. The last song is a remix of "Pretty Lies." Though the remix sounds good, it does not stand apart from the original enough, and it would have been better to hear another new song instead.

The music and vocals on Pretty Lies are fantastic. Fans of Veridia's debut are sure to enjoy this follow-up. I'm excited to see how Veridia will develop in the future, especially for another full-length album.