Archives: press_release

Chicago, IL – Blooming TikTok moguls SM6 have released their latest single, “Cologne,” an edgy intersection of jazz and pop that speaks volumes on the language of young love. The track details the familiar tropes of teenage love found in our typical romantic comedy films. From sneaking out of the house to late-night swims, SM6 channels a nostalgic sense of romance in the summer during our formative youth. “Cologne” is now streaming worldwide on all music platforms.

The track takes the innocence of a young love story and sets it to a mature tone. With a sultry instrumental, alluring melody, and the rich vocal talent of lead singer Isabel Jones, listeners are taken through a cinematic experience as the band recounts a story worthy of the silver screen. In a masterful sonic combination reminiscent of Michael Buble’s “Feeling Good” and Dove Cameron’s “Boyfriend,” SM6 captures the charming feeling of falling in love in the summer, as portrayed by the familiar movie plot lines many resonate with.  Utilizing vivid lyrics such as, “Your white button down is sticking to your skin, reality hits when I dive off that cliff,” SM6 creates a colorful image of risky fun and young attraction that will draw listeners into the captivating story.

Composed of six siblings from Geneva, Illinois, SM6 is a hard-hitting group whose come-up is hard to ignore. Their journey to success in music is driven by their unique sound that is not typically heard in mainstream pop music. With the emotionally potent vocals of Isabel Jones, bassist and lead singer, supported by the harmonious combination of talent by pianist George Jones, guitarists Adam and Jack Jones, Emily Jones on drums, and Ellie Jones on percussion, the band develops a dark atmosphere filled with driving synths and a punk edge.

SM6 has made its mark as seasoned musicians throughout their decade-long run together. The band has amassed over three million followers and 12 million weekly watchers on TikTok with their seamless combination of witty, fun-loving content alongside showing off their musical abilities. Their influential presence both as a family and a musical entity makes this unique mixture of artists a standout group to electro-pop fans worldwide. Their debut album Rom Com attracted notable praise from champions at EARMILK, Celeb Mix, and Music Connection Magazine. As an homage to pride month, the group’s single, “Panic,” released last June, was a personal letter from Isabel on her journey of embracing her sexuality and the anxieties of coming out as part of the LGBTQ+ community. “Panic” gained over one million streams on Spotify and was featured in Sweety High, Celeb Secrets, and Tonight Magazine.

With a poetically charged melody, hypnotizing vocals, and descriptive lyrics, “Cologne” is sure to be the song of the summer. SM6 paints a striking picture of young love through a cinematic lens, detailing both the enjoyment of living in the moment and the thrill of taking risks. There is only more to the journey for these influential pop frontrunners. Be sure to follow SM6 on  Instagram and TikTok @SM6band and visit their website www.SM6band.com to stay up to date on their future projects.

San Antonio, TX – Rising singer-songwriter Emily Monsen has revealed her latest single, “It Was You.” Compellingly honest, the track offers a heartfelt and poignant commentary on how heartbreak can spark meaningful self-reflection. Set against a backdrop of haunting melodies and evocative lyrics, Monsen delves into the aftermath of a painful breakup, grappling with her emotions and finding the strength to move on.

“It Was You” captures the authentic feel of Monsen’s journey through self-discovery using heartfelt and impactful storytelling. From the opening lines, where she admits to drowning her sorrows in alcohol, to the realization that her former partner was not worth the agony she endured, Monsen’s vulnerability shines through each verse. Confronting doubts and insecurities, she questions her own responsibility for the failed relationship before ultimately discovering that it was the other person’s actions that led to its demise.

With introspective songwriting and Monsen’s captivating vocals, “It Was You” exposes the fragility and strength of the human heart. The lyrics touch upon sacrifices made and the desperate hope for reconciliation, only to realize that moving forward is the best path to healing. Monsen’s powerful performance resonates with listeners, reminding them of the complexities of love and the importance of self-worth.

The new single follows her remarkably transparent single, “how we used to be.” Told from the perspective of present-day Monsen, now 24, as she reflects on a relationship that came to a jarring and sudden end when she was 18, the track simultaneously captures the pain of the moment as it occurs and the wisdom she gained by experiencing and reflecting on the experience. “how we used to be” zooms in on Monsen’s decision to remember the relationship how it was at its very best, rather than lingering in the goodbyes and closure she never received. Harnessing a fearlessly contemplative songwriting style and Monsen’s sultry, countrypolitan vocals, the debut single encapsulates her experience’s vulnerability as it surges through time and space – becoming a dynamic conversation between her past and present selves. Through “how we used to be,” Monsen finally reaches a point of negotiating her hurt with the knowledge that she has survived it.

On both tracks, Emily Monsen’s artistry thrives on her ability to convey genuine emotions through her music. Each song is a mindful testament capturing heartfelt moments. As an aspiring country artist, Monsen dreams of gracing the grandest stages in the genre, sharing her captivating songs with audiences worldwide.

Stream or download “It Was You” on all major digital platforms, and visit her Instagram at @emilymonsen for show updates, admire her sparkling outfits, and perhaps request adorable photos of her cat.

Asian Country Pop Band Details a Troubled Relationship in Melancholy New Single

Los Angeles, CA – Modern country pop band, NuAsia, has released their newest single, “Quiet Violence.” In an artful blend of passionate vocals, enchanting harmonies, and a building instrumental, “Quiet Violence” gives a stunning depiction of the desperation that comes with feeling a loved one slip away. The track is a melancholy, heartfelt tune detailing the initial stages of a relationship’s downfall, where one partner feels trapped in their sorrow as the other remains distracted from their affection. “Quiet Violence,” the first release lifted from their upcoming concept album, is now available for streaming on all platforms worldwide.

The single captures the raw and heartbreaking honesty of the song’s emotionally charged lyrics. Born from the creative mastermind that is NuAsia’s drummer, Roshan Seresinhe shares how the track remains open to various interpretations. “Although the track nor the video does not depict it being an affair, it can be translated that way,” says the artist. “The partner feels like she has no way out as she drowns in her sorrow.” The layered meaning behind the song and its heavy-hearted story allows listeners to place themselves in the shoes of the protagonist by drawing their own conclusions and connections to real life. Although, whichever way it can be interpreted, the lyrics are undoubtedly painful. “I can’t waste my breath on you one more time; feel like I’m holding onto what was never mine,” as sung by lead vocalist Saint Cloud is a beautiful recount of resignation to the situation. A painstaking message, coupled with the masterful production of strings, piano, and drums, creates a harmonious track dripping with emotive expression.

The sheer talent and passion for their craft make NuAsia one of the most remarkable bands that are paving a new path in the music industry. Brought together by their Asian descent and their love for country music, the six-piece act is beginning to establish their roles as vanguards to the rare but growing sector of Asian artists in the country scene. Their forthcoming album, Quiet Violence, is just the first stop on their pioneering journey to becoming one of the most successful Asian country bands. Led by creative visionary Roshan Seresinhe and supported by Saint Cloud’s poignant songwriting and ethereal vocals, NuAsia’s diversity in both culture and talent is simply unmatched. The other four band members include keyboardist Isamu MacGregor, an experienced musician that spent time touring with Colbie Callait; Mark Flores, one of the top Asian guitarists in California; Dhammika (DJ) Jayasinghe on bass guitar, and Janesh Ruwanpathirana on percussion. Ranging from the ages of 20 to 60 years old, the band is consistently churning out new ideas from a wide variety of perspectives that are likely to reach the hearts of any audience.

“Quiet Violence” showcases NuAsia’s ability to develop stories and create art that makes listeners feel seen is gives fans a sneak peek into what the album will bring. With ambient vocals, a stellar production, and beautifully tragic lyrics, this country-pop band embarks on a complex storyline full of love, loss, and reflection. A music video for the song is set to be released in the summer. “Quiet Violence” is now available on all streaming platforms worldwide. Follow NuAsia on Instagram @NuAsiaCountry or visit NuAsiaCountry.com to keep up to date on future projects.

Dublin, Ireland – Indie rockers Dakota 66 have released their debut album, If Not Now, When, a self-reflective work that details their experiences over the last ten years of their career. Touching on themes of love, loss, ego, joy, friendship, and youth, the album gives listeners a glimpse into the various identities the band has claimed throughout time. If Not Now, When premiered on The Big Takeover prior to its official release and is now available to stream and download on digital music platforms worldwide.

From start to finish, the album takes on various personas through its wide range of sonic elements that give listeners something new with each track. From “Bubble,” a song true to its name, as it celebrates the memories of tender, delightful moments and the radiance of human connection, to “Shine,” a bold cinematic masterpiece that embodies the joy and fulfillment of being alive, every song adopts a fresh angle on the experience of growth and being human in the lives we lead. While each track stands out in its own way, If Not Now, When remains true to Dakota 66’s overall sound as artists and songwriters. With every unique combination of pure, affective vocals, expressive percussion, and masterful guitar riffs, the album is an authentic showcase of the band’s observations made in life. Listeners are guaranteed a well-rounded emotional experience, as these four creatives bare their souls through a mixture of emotive lyrics and intense production.

Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, Dakota 66 is composed of J Gallagher (vocals), Brian Grace (guitar), Brian Curran (bass), and Thomas Leonard (drums). They have had a remarkable decade-long run thus far, drawing influence from bands such as The National, R.E.M., Radiohead, and songwriters such as Bob Dylan and Sam Fender. The four-piece act has created a sound that is uniquely their own and is bound to draw fans into their rollercoaster of reflection and interesting stories. “We always wanted to create music that connected with people,” they share. “You feel something more than melody or rhythm, you can see into the soul of the music and band.” After many years of hard work, perfecting their craft, and carving out the right direction, these indie rockers are ready to share their art with the world. They work to redefine the connection between artist and fan through the raw retelling of their personal experiences.

If Not Now, When truly says it all, with each song laying claim to a different moment in life. Epic, dynamic, and thematic, this project is the bridge that connects fans to the artist in a manner that is both intimate and real. To keep up with their musical journey moving forward, follow Dakota 66’s journey on their Instagram (@Dakota66_Band) to stay up to date on future projects.

Los Angeles, CA – Payson Lewis has released his new EP, retrospection (19:30),  a collection of singles previously shared through the years. Following his 2018 debut EP and a string of successful singles, this indie-pop innovator assembled a collection of heartfelt songs in one place. retrospection (19:30) marks the end of an influential period in Lewis’s life, with a new era on the horizon this coming summer. The EP is available to stream and download worldwide.

retrospection (19:30) chronicles the story of a relationship gone sour, from the painful pang of recognition to the inward strife of sacrificing memories to prioritize your own well-being. Through upbeat guitar work and lavishly catchy pop melodies, Payson Lewis’s collection begs the question: how do we rediscover ourselves through intense periods of change? This EP, produced by Ben Soldate, is the product of four conscientious years of polishing, tweaking, and re-tweaking to perfect the experience he has always felt passionate about delivering. “Revisiting this material and fusing it together in one flow, as originally intended, has helped me reconnect with who I was, even just a few short years ago: a person who simultaneously feels like my long-lost best friend, and also a complete and utter stranger,” explains Lewis. “I’ve learned a lot over these years, and I owe a lot of that growth and knowledge to these songs and the process of creating them.” The EP’s complexly brooding subject matter, subverted by playfully eclectic and often danceable rhythms, extends a figurative confidence that invites listeners into a state of communal catharsis.

Payson Lewis’s immersive sound locks the audience in from the first minute and foreshadows his inevitable conflict through the EP’s opener, “Making Trouble.” With an angular riff and catapulting backbeat, this song blasts past his lyrically reluctant resolution into a blossoming glance inside his head. The resulting emotional turmoil can be felt almost instantly on tracks like previous singles, “Back In Time (feat. Leah Lewis)” and “Nothing to You,” whose defiantly independent perspective is haunted by sentiments of losing oneself forever. His vivacious pulse is carried throughout the entirety of the project, especially on “Hotel Suite,” whose funkadelic hooks and playful content serve as a momentary reprieve and escape from the intimate complexity surrounding it. The EP concludes amicably with two mirrored tracks (“Only Yesterday” and “In Your Heart”) that show Lewis arguing his case first internally, then outwardly.

Los Angeles-based artist Payson Lewis’s creative journey traces back to his upbringing in the vibrantly multicultural city of Philadelphia. Lewis dove head-first into the music surrounding him from an early age, learning to play the piano alongside his brother’s old CDs, and lending his voice to school choirs and theatrical productions. Influenced profoundly by the likes of DAWES, The 1975, and the soulful tones of Lizzy McAlpine, he finds sonic motivation from evocative and catchy guitar riffs and a lyrical arsenal of modern edge to tell the story of his all-too-relatable experiences. His overwhelmingly energetic vocal delivery led to a first major breakthrough on the stage of NBC’s The Sing-Off, securing a spot among the elite Top 4 contenders. Lewis’s artistic versatility continues to open new doors, whether it be performing internationally in Taiwan and Korea, captivating listeners with his theatrical prowess in productions across Chicago and Las Vegas, gracing the soundtracks of major motion pictures, or appearing memorably in a variety of hit television shows including Jane the Virgin and How I Met Your Mother. With features in nearly 100 music publications, such as Hollywood Life,  PARADE Magazine, The Honey Pop, and an impressive Spotify stream count soaring above 1.6 million, his musical trajectory leaves an indelible mark on the industry’s landscape.

From anguished indecision to pained reminiscence, Payson Lewis’s retrospection (19:30) is a gripping story of an all-too-real relationship gone wrong.  “I’m really excited to share this collection with the world according to my vision,” says Lewis. “I look forward to using it as the foundation for the next phase just around the corner.” This EP is available to stream and download now on all digital platforms worldwide. Be sure to keep up with his future endeavors by following him on Instagram @PaysonLewis.

Seattle, WA – Hot Bodies In Motion has released its highly anticipated EP, Fortune, a multi-faceted project that explores the meaning of “fortune” through multiple lenses.  With captivating guitar instrumentals, energetic drum beats, and strong, raspy vocals, Fortune is littered with raw emotion and brutal honesty on various complex human experiences. “The word fortune can refer to wealth, luck, success, or failure,” says the pair, “as the lyrics explore its various meanings through the lens of love, relationships, and family dynamics.” Fortune is available to stream on all music platforms globally.

Hot Bodies In Motion, created by good friends Scott Johnson and Ben Carson, left nothing hidden when it comes to this latest release. In a dynamic fusion of throwback rock and soulful swagger, the four-piece project discusses the various manifestations of fortune in different contexts. Whether it be a story of falling in love in Peru while tripping on mushrooms like “Dive In,” to the remnants of previous life decisions coming back to haunt them at night in “All Night,” or a heartfelt journey of being there for a loved one going through a crisis, while simultaneously acknowledging their strength to overcome adversity in a “Hotel Room,” Hot Bodies In Motion shines an honest light on themes of love, heartbreak, and hedonistic reflection. The EP is chillingly beautiful in its willingness to dive deep into the layers of good, bad, and ugly within these intense experiences, as characteristic of the pair’s previous tracks.

Born out of a basement in Seattle 12 years ago, Hot Bodies In Motion accredits their passion for music to their religious upbringing and their immersion in the local community growing up. After Johnson picked up the guitar and Carson learned bass, the pair spent their free time playing together. Whether through high school choir or gigs at the town farmer’s market, music has served as both a creative and emotional outlet for the duo. Drawing inspiration from a plethora of artists such as Pharrell Williams, the Black Keys, and even Mariah Carey, Hot Bodies In Motion has created a unique sound that is the perfect balance of fervent and sensual. The group has collaborated with multiple notable artists such as Macklemore, Natale from JOSEPH, and Allen Stone, and championed multiple media placements such as the Lionsgate film Abduction, Netflix’s Lucifer, and NBC’s The Night Shift. Their last release, “Hymn 151,” gained praise from OutLoud! Culture, Drop The Spotlight, and Pause & Play.

Returning after a 10-year hiatus, Hot Bodies In Motion is not holding back. With a distinctly vintage vibe, pulsing rhythms, and captivating guitar hooks, Fortune provides an emotionally raw story of the difficult decisions that keep us awake at night, being there for a loved one in crisis, and learning to embrace things outside of our control. To stay up to date on Hot Bodies in Motion’s musical journey, follow their Spotify, Instagram @HotBodiesInMotion, and visit HotBodiesInMotion.com

New York, NY – Rising hip hop and R&B artist thee B.P. has released his dreamy new single “Lay Low.” Perfectly capturing the essence of the honeymoon phase of a relationship, “Lay Low” evokes a welcomed sense of romantic escapism. With an impressive vocal range and undeniable charisma, thee B.P. guides listeners into his blissful daydream. “Lay Low” is available now to stream and download on all digital platforms.

“Lay Low” is a masterful track that showcases thee B.P.’s exceptional talent and charisma. The smooth blend of R&B and hip-hop elements creates an immersive soundscape that highlights the beginning lovey-dovey phase of a relationship, leaving listeners feeling captivated and emotionally moved. thee B.P. states that “ You know you’re in trouble when she got you thinking about a nice lil private life where you two can lay low and take over the world.” The song opens with a soulful beat that sets the mood for thee B.P.’s introspective lyrics. His smooth and captivating vocals effortlessly glide over the beat, drawing listeners in and making them feel the depth of his emotions. The production quality of the track is exceptional, thanks to the collaboration of the three talented producers. HossyBeats, Lou Xtwo, and Drawzilla masterfully blend soulful R&B beats with modern hip-hop elements, resulting in a mesmerizing soundscape that enhances thee B.P.’s vocal performance.

thee B.P., originally named Brandon Michael Purdy, spent his childhood in a small town in upstate New York. As the son of a DJ, music has been running in his veins from a young age. A passion for music came naturally to him, as he couldn’t help but sing and dance wherever he went. Harboring an unwavering drive to make his mark, thee B.P emerged onto the hip-hop and R&B scene with notable momentum. In 2022, his debut year in the industry, he dropped two 16-track mixtapes Simpin Pimp III and B.O.M.B. Part One. Standout tracks such as “Me & U” and “WRONG BITCH” immediately captured listeners’ attention with mesmerizing flows and expressive melodies. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of musicians, thee B.P. ‘s unique sound is heavily influenced by hip-hop moguls such as iconic 90’s New York rap artists Jay-Z and Notorious B.I.G. The Atlanta trap scene has also played a major role in his development, as his sound takes cues from trailblazers like Young Thug and Future. Additionally, thee B.P. ‘s deep admiration for the late pop legend Michael Jackson has also impacted his style. His last single “Strike A Pose II” gained praise from Remixed Magazine, The Word Is Bond, and Landon Buford.

With such a diverse range of influences, thee B.P.’s music truly stands out from the crowd. With a fierce determination and undeniable talent, thee B.P. is destined to make waves in the hip-hop and R&B industry. “Lay Low” is available to stream worldwide on digital music platforms.

Charlotte, NC – Rising country artist Misha Fair has released “Beg,” an emotionally charged, swampy blues track that combines raw vocals with delightful and seductive melodies. The single is accompanied by irresistibly atmospheric electric guitars and marks the follow-up to Fair’s intense and soul-stirring single “Memphis,” which highlighted her captivating storytelling and vocal performance. “Beg” is available to stream and download on all digital platforms.

The new track delves deep into a woman’s journey of heartbreak and longing. “Beg” represents a deeply personal moment in Fair’s artistic growth process. Written during emotional turmoil, “Beg” channels a tenacity and resilience reminiscent of the iconic line, “Nobody puts baby in the corner.”

The idea for “Beg” materialized during a pivotal moment when Fair’s producer friend, Malik, entered her studio office seeking to borrow acoustic guitars. Fueled by unwavering inspiration, Malik was determined to bring his idea to life. Fair allowed him the space to work alone, sensing the importance of the creative process. When Malik sent over the track, Misha Fair was rendered speechless.

Simultaneously, Fair’s personal life seemed askew, intensifying her desire to create something cathartic and deeply felt. Fueled by anger and frustration, she poured her emotions into crafting lyrics that mirrored her experiences of unbalanced relationships, unreciprocated efforts, and personal growth. The result was a raw and honest expression of empowerment and strength.

As Fair explored different avenues for the song’s production, she realized that its true potency lay within the combination of her vocals and the soulful, Motown-inspired background. Collaborating with trusted producer friends, she refined the vocal production and enhanced the chorus’s dynamics, ensuring that the song’s authenticity and emotional depth remained at the forefront. With “Beg,” Fair aimed to evoke raw emotion and unfiltered sentiment reminiscent of iconic artists like Heart, Etta James, and Janis Joplin.

Fair’s talent stems from a rich musical legacy, with her grandfather, Chuck Willis, renowned as the “King of the Stroll” and a prolific songwriter. Raised in a musical environment, Fair quickly captivated audiences from a young age with her remarkable voice and renditions of timeless classics by icons like Dolly Parton and Linda Ronstadt.

With her distinctive sound that blends folk, gospel, bluegrass, and rock and roll, Misha Fair is rapidly emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the country music scene. Her ability to weave compelling stories through her music sets her apart, solidifying her position as a captivating storyteller.

Stream or download “Beg” anywhere music is found, watch the music video for her previous single, “Memphis,” on YouTube, and stay connected with Misha Fair by following her on Instagram @MishaFair.

Los Angeles, CA – Emerging indie-pop artist Ashley Elle has released her latest single, “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy.” Mastering a level of connection that is seldom achieved through lyricism alone, “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” is a melodically beautiful quest to find some relief from the overwhelming experience of anxiety and depression while navigating through life. Near and dear to her heart, Ashley Elle wrote “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” when she “felt so much pressure and responsibility trying to deal with growing up and the challenges we face.” “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” is now available to stream on digital music platforms worldwide.

“Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” was penned when Ashley Elle was moving back from living abroad in London and feeling overwhelmed by “struggling with the complexities of life.” Unguarded, comforting, and slightly haunting, the track urgently seeks relief from the overpowering experience of navigating life as a lost young adult.  With a catchy structure and repetition paired with a composition strongly reliant on guitar and piano, “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” feels reliable, reflecting the stability that Ashley Elle yearns for. Perfecting a sound as alluring and authentic as the lyrics, Ashley Elle has an ornate ability to connect with her fans in an intimate way, asking them, “Do you know this feeling?” Expressing desperation for connection, she enables her audience to feel seen as well. With a sense of familiarity and intimacy, listeners cannot help but feel as though Ashley Elle is a close friend, inviting them to seek solace and confide in one another. The song goes beyond emotional expression and allows the listener to feel as though they are trying to navigate through these feelings alongside Ashley. “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” was co-written and produced by Cazz Brindis and is the follow-up to her single “How Do You Stop Loving Someone?”

Ashley Elle was captivated by Taylor Swift’s music and creative artistry from a young age. It was this inspiration that led her to unearth her natural talent and love for music. Her musical journey started with the piano. Soon after, she taught herself to play the guitar. Through songwriting and vocal expression, Ashley Elle found a sense of comfort and emotional release. While initially modest about her undeniable talent, once her dad encouraged her to record in a studio, everything clicked into place. Through working with various producers and unleashing passionate dedication, Ashley Elle developed her addictively captivating sound. Her foremost objective is to connect with her audience, which is evident in the deeply resonant lyrics of her music. Although achieving such a connection often requires her to exhibit a level of vulnerability that can be intimidating, it also sets her apart, placing her in a league of her own. In 2019, her perseverance yielded results when she was signed to a publishing deal.

Ashley Elle breaks emotional boundaries in “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy,” proving she stands in a class of her own. Radiating an aura of familiarity, she provides listeners with an invitation to work through deep emotional turmoil and not feel so alone. “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” is now available to stream and download on all digital platforms. Follow Ashley Elle’s musical journey and upcoming releases by following her on Instagram @AashleyElle and visiting her website at AshleyElleMusic.com.

Los Angeles, CA – Indie folk artist Albert Kass has released his new single “Downward,” a hauntingly beautiful tale spoken from the perspective of someone watching a loved one struggle. The single describes, with a poignant simplicity, the torture and eventual resignation that one faces when seeing someone they care for reach rock bottom, especially amidst the throes of addiction. “Downward” is available to stream on all music platforms worldwide.

In a melancholy mixture of soft vocals, layered harmonies, and a bright and airy acoustic guitar riff, Kass perfectly details how the impacts of addiction extend past the person themself to their family, friends, and loved ones. Riddled with feelings of frustration, heartbreak, and anger, “Downward” shines a light on how difficult it is to be powerless in such an intense situation. The lyrics depict a message of “tough love,” as the singer recognizes that the only time this person can be helped is when they choose to help themselves. Kass sings with an exhausted yet empathetic tone, “You make mistakes / a massive amount / back again, somehow / carry on my wayward star.” The track exists in the space where grief and apathy meet; it is a recognition of the brutal reality that Kass needs to cut off the person they love to spare his own mental health and that he can only hope this person comes to their senses before succumbing to irreparable damage.

Albert Kass developed a connection to music early on in his life. Initially drawn to the darker classical music that his sister would play on the piano, Kass eventually began experimenting with composition as a creative medium to express himself. The alternative folk singer states that singing was not part of the initial plan he envisioned for himself; however, it “sort of happened of its own volition.” Since his initial entrance into the music space, Kass has spent the last two decades in two other careers, joking that he is a “late bloomer” in the music industry. However, with a voice as smooth as silk and a knack for lyrical storytelling, Kass has become a notable folk riser. “Downward” is from his upcoming debut album Young Old Man, which he created with the help of Grammy award-winning producer Billy Mohler (The Jimmy Chamberlin Complex, Lady Gaga, The Airborne Toxic Event). Previous singles from the album have been touted by Grimy Goods, American Songwriter, and antiMusic.

According to Kass, this new track “draws from the act of callusing over” after one has entered a state of “general malaise.” Listeners are sure to feel the heavy emotion in this song, experiencing a whirlwind combination of relief and remorse. Stream “Downward” on digital music platforms worldwide, and follow Albert Kass on his future endeavors on Instagram @AlbertKassmusic.