Bella Rios : Options Review

by Shannon Smith

Bella Rios returns with “Options,” a dynamic pop-rock creation that finds her delivering a confident and empowering message wrapped in her trademark catchy hooks. Drawing from her pop-punk influences, Bella captures that familiar bittersweet energy of an on-and-off relationship. The track is a vibrant reminder to prioritize oneself over a half-hearted romance, celebrating self-worth with flair and resilience.

“Options” begins with a stripped-down bass and vocal duet that immediately catches the ear, setting the stage with a sense of intimacy. This pared-down intro contrasts effectively with the subsequent build, as the song blossoms with layers of guitar, punchy bass lines, and drums steeped in pop-rock aesthetics. In the chorus, the distorted guitar chords weave seamlessly into Bella’s vocal line, complementing the song’s themes of standing up for oneself while adding an edge that harks back to the roots of early 2000s pop-punk.

Bella’s vocal performance is warm and commanding, effortlessly shifting between the understated verses and the soaring, hook-laden chorus. Her vocal backgrounds and multi-part harmonies are well-placed, creating a textured soundscape that adds interest to the track. Particularly notable is the final chorus, where Bella lets loose, demonstrating her vocal range with passionate R&B-inflected runs that bring the song to an electrifying climax. It’s this mix of pop-punk attitude and soulful vocal expression that sets Bella apart from her peers.

The lyrics of “Options” are tongue-in-cheek yet deeply relatable, speaking to anyone who has found themselves entangled in a frustrating “situationship.” Bella’s words are candid: she doesn’t just touch on the toxic allure of these connections but turns it into an empowering moment of realization. The line, “There’s absolutely no reason to settle for that feeling or treatment—that there truly are so many better options out there,” isn’t just a statement; it’s a rallying cry for self-respect. As Bella notes, “Options” encourages listeners to put themselves first, shed the uncertainty of a fleeting relationship, and find strength within.

Musically, the production of “Options” has a deliberate balance of grit and polish. The distorted guitars lend a raw, rebellious atmosphere, while the danceable drums and bass keep the energy tight and infectious. Bella’s sense of timing fits perfectly with the edgy pop-rock groove, giving her performance a natural swagger that feels effortless. The layering of the instrumental elements ensures that each section of the track maintains its momentum, pushing the listener forward to the explosive final chorus.

“Options” is just one more example of Bella’s evolving sound—a sound shaped by her wide array of influences, from the classic rock power of Fleetwood Mac and Aerosmith to the commanding vocal prowess of Adele and P!nk. Her ability to combine these inspirations into a fresh, modern pop-rock package speaks to her artistry and versatility. Coming off the heels of her debut EP, Sincerely, Bella continues to build her identity in the pop world with authenticity and a vibrant sense of who she is.

Her journey, beginning in Chicago and continuing in Nashville, her commitment to her craft, and the experience of a classical piano background combined with a love for the raw energy of pop-punk gives Bella a unique perspective. These influences are evident in every note of “Options,” making it an assertion of independence, a celebration of the choices we all have—and a reminder that the best option, ultimately, is always oneself.