Lone Kodiak Releases New Anthemic Rock Track “PDX ‘97”

Rock Trio Details the True Story of Portland Teenage Runaways Falling in Love

Los Angeles, CA – Rock trio Lone Kodiak has released their newest exhilarating single, “PDX ‘97.” The indie-rock single chronicles the emotional rollercoaster and true story of love and teenage runaways with sentimental lyrics, captivating storytelling, and a powerful driving beat. “PDX ‘97” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

The rock trio composed of Dainéal Parker, Daniel Alden, and Joshua Harris delivers an anthemic and cinematic track produced by Kyle Mangels, reflecting on lead vocalist Dainéal Parker’s young love story. “This is the true story of one teenage runaway falling in love with another on the streets of Portland, OR., in the late 90s,” Parker explains. “I normally shy away from writing anything too personal or plainly autobiographical, but the vibe of this song just took me right back to those hot days and cold nights I spent wrapped around the finger of a girl, and our summer trying to find couches to crash on but often settling for cardboard.” Lone Kodiak brings a vast and atmospheric sound, blended with intimate and heartfelt storytelling depicting head over heels love and the unpredictable adventure of a teenage love story. Parker also reflects on the last thing this girl told him that became a huge inspiration lyrically and emotionally for the track. “September inevitably came and a friend’s family took me in for the school year, but the streets weren’t ready to let her go and we lost touch, but not before she left me with maybe the best thing anyone’s ever said to me: ‘I wanna hear my favorite songs sung by you’” explains Parker. The line ‘I wanna hear my favorite songs sung by you’ rings throughout the track bringing you right along the melancholic, yet optimistic story of young love and heartbreak.

The East Los Angeles band, Lone Kodiak was founded by Dainéal Parker and Daniel Alden, who met as teenagers in Portland, OR. With the combination of their insightful lyrics, unique and melodic guitar lines, and unmistakable drumming, Lone Kodiak is reminiscent of bands like Hum, Explosions in the Sky, The Cure, and Deftones. The band released two EPs, became a feature of LA’s independent venue circuit, and was among BuzzBands.LA’s ‘Bands to Watch’ before a severe motorcycle accident involving bassist Daniel Alden sidelined them for most of 2019. The unscheduled pause gave them time to reflect and refocus, shuffling their roster by adding drummer Josh Harris and returning furiously in the summer of 2020 with their single, “Make It a Weapon,” from the forthcoming EP. Lone Kodiak has been featured on Buzzfeed, Pop Matters, Stereogum, and has been played on KROQ, KCRW, KCSN, and more.

With their beautifully layered guitar work, introspective lyrics, and infectious vocal melodies, “PDX ‘97” is a dynamic and effervescent single capturing the wild ride of teenage love. Download or stream “PDX ‘97” now on digital music platforms worldwide. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the National Forest Foundation to help recovery efforts in Oregon. To keep up with Lone Kodiak’s journey, follow them on Instagram @lonekodiak and LoneKodiak.com.

 

Anthony Lazaro Delivers Emotional Single “The Silent Patient”

Italian Singer-Songwriter Searches for Hope During COVID Crisis

Los Angeles, CA – Singer-songwriter Anthony Lazaro has released his emotive new single “The Silent Patient.” Lazaro brings a calming feeling to listeners as his descriptive lyrics allow them to connect to the song on a deeper level, making them feel as though they are experiencing the track firsthand. “The Silent Patient” is available for streaming and download worldwide.

Anthony Lazaro’s new single, “The Silent Patient,” explores a desire and longing for love and hope. The song is about a complicated relationship that illustrates love while comparing different seasons. “It could be a metaphor of the world, the silent patient, waiting for the (physical and metaphorical) spring to come. Considering many hope this nightmare with COVID will start finishing around next spring, it could be a nice song of hope.” The instrumental introduction into the song is shortly accompanied by Lazaro’s soothing vocals and the opening lyrics, “the last breath of summer is blowing down our necks,” creating a strong visual that sets the scene for the listeners. The chorus brings about an ambiance to the listener as Lazaro sings the lines, “you know I’m your silent patient.” Contrasting the image of summer given at the beginning of the song, he croons, “I’ll be holding on to the winter for your kiss to wake me up,” allowing the audience to further visualize the experiences being explored through the song. The poetic imagery remains strong into the second verse as Lazaro sings “with the colors of spring, my heart will blossom again,” contrasting with the previous verse of longing, he showcases the feeling of warmth and hope. Lazaro’s beautifully written lyrics accompanied by his soothing vocals allow him to tell a story while transporting the listener into the song itself. The track was co-produced by Lazaro and Danny Humming and marks the first single from the upcoming full-length album, due out October 20th.

Anthony Lazaro is an Italian singer-songwriter and indie musician who currently resides in Hamburg, Germany. In addition to being a vocalist, Lazaro plays many instruments, including guitar, ukulele, and piano. His musical inspiration comes from artists such as Chet Baker, Nina Simone, Amy Winehouse, Bon Iver, Devendra Banhart, and Jack Johnson. Lazaro has had his music featured in the Amazon Prime Series Russian Affairs; it has also been used by Starbucks and Cosmopolitan and has over 445K monthly plays on Spotify.

“After releasing the Basement Love EP about long-distance relationships and bunker times lovers, “The Silent Patient” is about the big sick, a world that is enduring the winter of COVID with a fragile, but resolute hope for a spring that couldn’t come soon enough,” explains Lazaro. Through stunning vocals and captivating lyrics, Anthony Lazaro’s new single transports the listener to a serene universe. Stream or download “The Silent Patient” on digital music platforms worldwide. To keep up to date with new releases from Anthony Lazaro visit his website AnthonyLazaro.com.

 

Benny Freestyles Takes You On A Dreamy Trip In Music Video For “Slow Motion”

Fun-loving and ever-rising artist, Benny Freestyles, releases a new music video for his adventurous and intimate single “Slow Motion.” The music video truly embodies the upbeat and joyous sensation partnered with every Benny Freestyles track and the robust and undeniable love and admiration for his partner. The music video is now available on YouTube.

Benny Freestyles has shown his creativity, passion, and admiration for his craft. The song “Slow Motion” is inspired by love and an intimate look into his personal relationship. “I wrote the track about how much I love my girlfriend,” and drawing from another famous love song, “it is also inspired by the song ‘I Love You Always Forever’ by Donna Lewis. This is one of my all-time favorite songs,” says Freestyles. When it was time to focus on a vision and concept for the video, Freestyles called up his longtime friend and videographer Sam Morrisey (Endeavor Studios), to create an aesthetic and telling visual experience synonymous with the vibe of the single “Slow Motion.” It wasn’t just telling the story of the song; they wanted to experiment with a new approach, “For this video, we wanted to try a different edit style than usual. We incorporated real-life iPhone footage into the visual. We also used photos and show footage.” A relationship can be a bit of a ‘love ride.’ Still, in this video, Freestyles wanted to both take the viewers on an emotional adventure in addition to one of actual physicality. Leading the viewers into Point Dume and Red Rock Canyon’s beautiful sceneries in California, everyone watching gets an escape to a tranquil landscape. A part of the joyride that the music video for “Slow Motion” takes you on is through show footage from Freestyle’s previous concerts in Portland and Boston showing off the reminiscent excitement of a crowd gathered together centered around a shared love of music. This serves as a nostalgia factor for the artist and those watching the video as well, with all of us in these times of struggle we’re facing together.

For Benny Freestyles, traveling the world has always been a massive part of his life. He has engaged with people, culture, love, and excitement all across the globe. Experiencing new perspectives on life has shaped Freestyles’ spiritually based music. The musician has released consistent projects and been on multiple national tours, collectively bringing in millions of streams on Spotify and Youtube. By releasing his music and touring the country, he has built a dedicated fan base worldwide, with his movement proliferating.

A letter of love, “Slow Motion” now takes on a visual journey through the intimate tellings of a blossoming relationship with true love from Benny Freestyles that is without question. The music video is now available on YouTube. You can stay in tune with all things Benny Freestyles by following him on social media @BennyFreestyles.

Nadia Vaeh Releases New Single “Anxiety” With Powerful Message

Pop Artist Drops Track Advocating For Mental Health Awareness

Los Angeles, CA – Pop artist Nadia Vaeh has released her powerful new track “Anxiety.” Vaeh reflects on her personal mental health struggles and how she copes with the highs and lows of anxiety. She aligns her message of “Anxiety” with the non-profit organization MusiCares to raise critical funds that can directly support music people in need. “Anxiety” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

Nadia Vaeh brings thought-provoking lyrics and inspiring storytelling in her dark and raw new single. “Anxiety is a fabric of my life, as it is for so many others. This world breeds anxiety as if it were positive for us. Sometimes I am able to channel my anxieties in a positive way; other times, it can disable my ability to function. It just depends on the day… sometimes the hour,” explains Vaeh. “I am just glad society is arriving at a place where we can keep the topic of mental health a bit more open. The more we embrace the light and dark sides of the human experience, the easier it is to recognize and enjoy the goodness.” The combination of Vaeh’s sincere lyrics of her own experiences, and the moody and dark undertone of the single, brings a realistic and relatable perspective on mental health. The conscious pop singer is donating a portion of the proceeds of the single to MusiCares, an organization focused on providing critical assistance to people in the music industry, and resources that affect the music community’s health and welfare. “I want to help my music family. My peers need help more than ever with the state of the world. The entertainment industry is so high pressure, and this organization helps artists navigate the mental health issues that can arise or become exacerbated from these pressures,” she says. As an advocate, she hopes her music can inspire people to embrace the conversation of mental health and be a reminder that they are not alone. “Anxiety” is written by Nadia Vaeh and Dion Shaw, produced by Dion Shaw and Tyler Spratt, mixed by Tyler Spratt, and mastered by Paris Minzer.

Nadia Vaeh’s love for music began at the age of two. Her mother was a poet and became a personal inspiration for Vaeh’s music career by sharing with her a love of words and music. Vaeh’s mother passed away when she was seventeen years old. The event led her down a self-destructive path away from music. These experiences fueled her return to music making Vaeh more determined than ever and creating her unique and compelling sound. With influences such as Lady Gaga, Lana Del Rey, and FKA Twigs, her sound is a unique collection of pop and personal experience. Most recently, Nadia Vaeh won the “Vox Pop” award at the Independent Music Awards for ‘Best Holiday Song’ and achieved a #1 rank on all of the Broadjam music charts for her song “Boomerang.”

With intense lyrics and powerful vocals, Nadia Vaeh delivers an authentic perspective on her journey with anxiety and hopes to bring more awareness and advocacy towards mental health. Download or stream “Anxiety” now on digital music platforms worldwide. To keep up with Nadia Vaeh’s journey, follow her on social media @NadiaVaeh or visit NadiaVaeh.com.

 

Liam Mogan Releases Euphoric Pop Single “Alone in the City”

Los Angeles Artist Describes a Perfect Adventure Through an Empty City

Los Angeles, CA – Pop artist Liam Mogan, released his new single “Alone in the City,” a vivid story of finding the best things in life through your surroundings. This single demonstrates how exploring alone can be a euphoric experience. “Alone in the City” is now available for streaming and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

Liam Mogan’s “Alone in the City” illustrates the gentle feeling of adventure by painting a picture through his lyrics. The pulse of the beat is felt through the track accompanied by the soft melodies embodying the California scenery. “There’s something about being able to see the lights of the city without being seen yourself, getting the pier all to yourself, and driving PCH and Mulholland off-hours,” explains Mogan. He describes the therapeutic attributes of self-discovery while taking what feels like a personal tour of an empty Los Angeles due to the COVID crisis. “I get a special feeling that makes me slow down and think about things that I don’t have time to think about during the day.” This euphoric hit was produced by Taylor Sparks and co-written by Liam Mogan, Dylan Rouda, and Taylor Sparks.

When Liam Mogan is not making waves in the Los Angeles music scene, he is catching waves in Malibu or riding his rescue horse, Tulsa – two passions of his that have affectionately dubbed him as the Surfing Cowboy. Working construction during the day and making music at night brings a humbled candor to the industry. Early on in life, he was inspired by the melodies and raw, honest songwriting of artists such as The Beach Boys, Alan Jackson, and Hank Williams. Mogan has played on stages across California and is accompanied in the studio by premier producers and songwriters from Capital, Sony, and Universal.

“Alone in the City” sparks a nostalgic adventurous bliss found through the alone time spent with a city. Life can seem perfect when you stop and embrace your surroundings. The single is now available for streaming and download on digital music platforms worldwide. You can follow Liam Mogan’s journey on Instagram at @liammorganmusic or at LiamMoganMusic.com.

 

London Duo 88/89 Release Electrifying New Single “Hit Me”

Psychedelic Pop Duo Drop New Vibrant & Nostalgic Track

Los Angeles, CA – Psych-pop duo 88/89 have released their electric new single “Hit Me.” With a blend of synths and guitar riffs, 88/89 deliver a euphoric and sentimental single reminiscent of the best moments of a relationship. “Hit Me” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

The British duo, comprised of Jack and Michael, delivers a nostalgic and psychedelic single capturing the high points of being in love. “Melodically, this one just fell into place quite easily. It started with some ‘la la la’s’ in the chorus, and the lyrics followed on from there,” explain the duo. “Like most of our writing, once we get the theme of the song, everything kind of fits into place.” “Hit Me” was recorded and produced by 88/89, mixed by Tim Rowkins (Maribou State, Mura Masa, Rina Sawayama) and mastered by Kevin Tuffy at Alchemy Mastering. “‘Hit Me’ is about that moment in a relationship when you’re like ‘uh ooooooooo this is the real deal’ and the moments that take your breath away. It’s one of our favourite songs because it represents a time where we realized what kind of music we wanted to make.” Vocally, the track is evocative of bands like The Temper Trap, while the soundscape of synths and guitars are resonant with 80s neo-psychedelia and modern synth-pop bands like MGMT. “We wanted to make something with a slightly unorthodox rhythm, an Andrew Weatherall, Screamadelica style beat. Then we thought it would be fun to pair that with some shoegazy, My Bloody Valentine-esque guitar,” Jack and Michael explain. The dreamy synths, obscured vocals, and distorted guitar bring a unique and ethereal sound to the indie-pop track.

Hailing from London, Jack (born in ’88) and Michael (born in ’89), began carving out a space between synth-pop and psychedelic rock, creating a sonic landscape with no boundaries. The duo met when they both were trying to start again creatively – Jack, after leaving Sissy and the Blisters, and Michael, after leaving his acting career behind. Once Jack played some of his music to Michael in a car, they grew from there and quickly realized that they are like Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, yin and yang. While their unique sound is redolent of bands like MGMT, Vampire Weekend, Tame Impala, The Cure, and The Temper Trap, 88/89 also pull influence from artists such as Lou Reed, My Bloody Valentine, Simply Red, and Primal Scream.

In their new track “Hit Me,” the rising psych-pop band has delivered an atmospheric and transcendent single, filled with nostalgia and dreamlike soundscapes. Download or stream “Hit Me” now on digital music platforms worldwide. To keep up with 88/8 9’s journey, follow them on Instagram @8889music.

On-the-rise R&B artist Floyd Miles Releases “OMNI”

We live in a world where most party songs on the radio embody low-vibrational elements that do not serve our soul well. Floyd’s movement and vision are about making sure that in every song, he is conscious of what the record depicts and the energy that it magnetizes towards anybody coming up after him. His music is all about being the energy you want to attract. This is a new-age love song straight from the heart. As light beings on this Earth, Floyd transcends his energy through his music. Getting back to fighting for love, awareness and abundance in relationships. “OMNI” is now available to download and stream on digital music platforms worldwide. 

Within the first few bars/lines, Floyd expresses: “Got no chains on me! If I run out baby are you gunna change on me? She said if you ever leave me I’mma send an army. Make it reign on me, say you want it “‘OMNI’.” In these first few phrases, the perspective begins with Floyd expressing to his Queen that he is not bound to anything of this physical world, especially money. This is the balancing act of their Kingdom. If he loses everything he has to his name, would she leave him? His Queen assures him that if he were the one to leave, she’d send an army to come find him. This goes to show what extremes she’d take to keep their love alive and growing. She says she wants it “OMNI” which means “In all things or in all ways or places.”

Most of Floyd’s music is created from the energy he finds in free-writing. From simple melodies to full productions, or merely a guitar-riff – “OMNI” just started out as a freestyle in the studio while he was shuffling through various productions. The perspective and story of the beat had a foundation. Thus, he began to interpret what the beat was saying to him. This particular beat made him feel liberated. The inspiration struck him with love-energy. “It is love that will always set you free. Thus, a love song emerged,” explains Miles.

“OMNI” is a song where Floyd’s career shifts to an evolving direction. Very different from all his other productions, the tempo of this beat is much faster.  Thus, he was able to show his range, flow and melody all in one song.  3AM, the feature on the record, is an incredible artist that brings his own. Floyd and  3AM met on Instagram and discovered instant respect for each other’s craft. “I like what 3AM brings to the game. His sound is unique and his energy is bright as an individual. As soon as I reached out to him, we began manifesting right away. We were able to really unite our sounds together to create a dope project for our fans.”

There’s plenty of Floyd Miles content to look forward to in the near future as he prepares to release new music this summer. “OMNI”  is now available for download and streaming on digital platforms worldwide. For more information on Floyd Miles, keep up with him on Instagram, @floyd_miles.

Francis Aud Releases New FONKY Pop Single “Take Me Home”

NYC Musician Encourage Fans to Dance Their Sadness Away

New York, NY — NYC native, Francis Aud has released his new funk-pop single, “Take Me Home.” Aud delivers a unique fusion of groovy funk and electronic elements combined with melancholic tone and lyrics. “Take Me Home” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

With an 80s influenced psychedelic-funk sound and pumping disco-era beat, Francis Aud’s new single lets you wallow in your feelings and makes you want to get up and dance the sadness away at the same time. “Disguised in synths and a funky dance-pop bass line, ‘Take Me Home’ is a sad song that’s aware of its melancholy towards love and the state-of-the-world,” explains Francis Aud. “To prove to its friends that “everything is fine” and that they’re “thriving,” the song puts on a lycra jumpsuit, a neon-green headband, and shows up to the local roller rink ready to boogie while popping bubble gum for 80’s dance night.”

“Take Me Home” is produced by Stavros Tsourhas (AJ Mitchell) and Zach Golden (Anthony Ramos, Jasmine Cephas Jones) and mixed and mastered by Douglas Schadt. “I wrote this song back in 2019 during a snowy February afternoon in Stavros’ studio. At the time, I thought the song was a little “too moody,” and I wasn’t that confident in releasing it because I was so self-conscious,” he admits. “To me, this song represents taking a chance to pursue “what I heard in my head,” and the universe shows me that it’s okay to take artistic chances.”

Born in NYC, Francis Aud is the child of two strict immigrant parents who drilled it in his head from day one that education was the priority. With the expectation that he would have a “respectable” career as a doctor, professor, or engineer, there was certainly no room for the arts. In fact, Francis was 12 years old before he ever listened to the radio! After graduating from college, he decided he could no longer push aside his love for music and began writing and recording his first EP, Tender Things. After releasing his debut EP in 2017, Francis began to move away from his retro-soul beginnings and started writing and releasing music that he likes to call, “FONK™ MUSIC,” his own unique blend of funk and pop. Since then, he released a slew of FONKY™ singles, including “Without You,” “Say It Loud,” and “Thought Of You.” The soulful pop artist fuses his retro-funk sound with influences from artists Al Green, James Brown, and Marvin Gaye, and is reminiscent of contemporary artists such as Bruno Mars, Allen Stone, and Paolo Nutini.

Francis Aud masterfully blends retro-funk and pop to deliver his mesmerizing and dreamy dance track, “Take Me Home.” Download or stream “Take Me Home” now on digital music platforms worldwide. To keep up with Francis Aud’s journey, follow him on socials @FrancisAudMusic or visit FrancisAud.com.

Nadia Vaeh Drops Electrifying BellaBeats Remix for “NAKED”

Pop Artist Teams With FLUiD AUDiO For the Launch of Remix Contest

Los Angeles, CA – Pop artist Nadia Vaeh has released an electric, thrilling remix of her empowering single “NAKED.” The remix is a fresh, high-energy rendition on the compelling single about finding your way through life’s hardships. The “NAKED (BellaBeats Remix)” is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

Nadia Vaeh’s dynamic and energizing remix for the inspirational and moving single is in collaboration with producer BellaBeats (Drew Dugan). “The lyrics for ‘Naked’ were inspired by the start of my journey as an artist. I was terribly taken advantage of and almost gave up,” explains Vaeh. “It was through the process of writing this song that I was able to manifest not only strength but new opportunities to really become a better artist and a better me. Words are like spells, and as I say in the bridge, I am already living my dream.” The combination of Vaeh’s motivational lyrics and electrifying production by BellaBeats brings a refreshing and exhilarating take on the track. “When Drew Dugan, my buddy in Colorado, and I linked up to work on a remix, I was pumped when he chose ‘Naked’ out of all my songs. Writing ‘Naked’ was such a pivotal moment for me. As I hone in on another personal and professional transformation, it has been a really incredible experience to hear this production metamorphose through his creativity.” With Vaeh’s pop sound and electronic/house influence, she delivers a powerful and invigorating dance track that builds to an adrenalizing and exciting culmination as the beat drops. “NAKED” (BellaBeats Remix) is mixed and mastered by Tyler Spratt and produced by BellaBeat (Drew Dugan).

In conjunction with the “Naked (BellaBeats Remix)” release, Nadia Vaeh is also launching a Remix Contest with FLUiD AUDiO. Fans will have the opportunity to remix their choice of three Vaeh tracks; “Boomerang,” “1000 Cuts” or “Heavy.” First and Second place prizes include a pair of FLUiD AUDiO FX-80s and a $50 Guitar Center Gift Card. Submissions must be received by August 24. More details can be found at NadiaVaeh.com/remix-contest.

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Nadia Vaeh’s love for music began at the age of two and was heavily supported by her parents. Her mother shared her love for words and music as a poet and was an inspiration for Vaeh’s journey as a musician. Vaeh’s mother passed away when she was seventeen years old, leading her down a self-destructive path away from music. With resilience and strength, Vaeh returned to music, creating her own distinctive voice and sound. With influences such as Lady Gaga, Lana Del Rey, and FKA Twigs, her sound is a unique blend of pop and indie rock, enriched with lyrics reflecting personal experience.

With Nadia Vaeh’s thought-provoking lyrics, captivating pop sound, and the masterful collaboration with producer Drew Dugan, Vaeh delivers a high-octane, heart-pumping dance track in “NAKED” (BellaBeats Remix). Download or stream “NAKED” (BellaBeats Remix) now on digital music platforms worldwide. To keep up with Nadia Vaeh’s journey, visit her website NadiaVaeh.com.

Jono Dorr Releases Inspiring EP, The Unexamined Life Part 1

Kehlani and Hayley Kiyoko Collaborator Releases Moving New EP

Los Angeles, CA – Songwriter and producer Jono Dorr has just released his new EP The Unexamined Life Part 1. The thought-provoking collection of songs examines Dorr’s own experiences with trust, freedom, and purpose. The Unexamined Life Part 1 is now available on streaming platforms worldwide.

Jono Dorr’s inspirational collection of songs on The Unexamined Life Part 1 explore his personal experiences with values he upholds in his life, “each song focuses on different moments in my life that compelled me to look inward for answers.” In its entirety, the EP recognizes the importance of understanding concepts that are core to all human relationships; “The Unexamined Life is about choosing pain over ignorance, freedom over obedience, and purpose over greed,” Jono Dorr explains. The EP opens with the incredibly powerful track “High Tide,” what starts as a piano piece breaks into an uplifting chorus with the motivational lyrics, “I went to bed, and one night I said that my life would change, cause you can’t stop the high tide from rolling in.” The second track on the EP, “Envy the Man,” focuses on the idea of an individual choosing greed and wealth over finding love and purpose in life. Whilst addressing these issues, Dorr sings the lyrics, “the soul of a boy be damned, but please try to be kind, cause he doesn’t understand,” explaining the idea that when individuals uphold more self-centered values, they often do not understand the ways in which it’s impacting their lives and relationships. Dorr explains that this upbeat track “helps me identify a quality in a man that I never want to become.” “Quiet Footsteps,” the lead single from The Unexamined Life Part 1, is a captivating song that features stunning backing vocals by Maesa Pullman. Born out of a very personal experience with broken trust, Dorr’s emotional connection with the song is felt through a compelling guitar solo. “Wanna Stay” leaves the listener with a wave of calmness washing over them, as Dorr sings lyrics about a place where all worries about the world can be escaped for a moment, “outside of the window, outside where I feel no pain I just wanna stay.” The haunting track “Boy” opens with the sound of a knock on a door, imagining a retroactive protection of the childhood self; “stay close to me child, I can see their shadows coming round.” The Unexamined Life Part 1 closes with “Today,” a song that explores leaving behind people who parasitize your life. The lyrics “ashes fallen, taste so sweet when they come from a fire that sets you free,” show that painful life events can lead to beautiful transformations.

Throughout his career, Jono Dorr helped shape and build a plethora of artists such as Hayley Kiyoko, Kehlani, Gnash, and The Neighbourhood. Dorr executive produced Kiyoko’s breakout album, Expectations. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Dorr played bass and guitar in various bands during his childhood, mainly focusing on classic rock, blues, and funk. He studied philosophy and music at UC Santa Cruz, refining his love for creating and playing music. Following a brief consideration of becoming a lawyer to make his mother proud, Dorr faced the ultimatum of either making money from music or getting a nine-to-five job. He was lucky enough to start composing for television and received the opportunity to partake in growing the careers of other talented artists, while also allowing him the time and space to focus on a solo career of his own.

The Unexamined Life Part 1 is a collection of cathartic songs that build a relationship with listeners as a result of Dorr’s personal lyrics. By addressing the importance of reflecting on life and the values we uphold as individuals, he is able to build a powerful connection with the audience. The Unexamined Life Part 1 is now available on streaming platforms worldwide; stay up to date with Jono Dorr’s new releases by following him on Instagram @JonoDorrMusic.