Artist Spotlight
George Katsos releases a solo album “EP2”
George Katsos’ second independent release is a five-song solo album known as “EP2”. Its first single “Dearest Friend” is about being there at the end with a friend, to be made public on June 3rd. Subsequent singles “Slow Me Down, “Money Making Machine”, “Found”, and “The Fighter” illuminate his adult contemporary approach to writing music and lyrics.
In the 1980s George participated in the last night jam at the famous Cambridge Music Complex outside of Boston the night before it was demolished. Local bands and members such as from the band Boston, Aerosmith, The Cars, and The J. Geils Band, previously practiced there and the intrigue peaked George’s interest in becoming a musician.
Out of reverence to the Beatles’ song Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and approaching a 20-year musical hiatus, George paid homage to Liverpool, England during Beatlemania. Upon returning home to Northern Virginia, he developed the 2021 “George Katsos EP1” independent release.
Videos are on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOacZS7-MCBpgEgOG3mAtWw
website at https://georgekatsos.com. EP2 videos and reviews to be published starting this summer.
Album Review
Dian Sheng explores identity, life and love with “Sid” album
Dian Sheng releases his long-awaited first English-language album, “Sid,” a genre-defying collection of songs that includes pop, rock, electronic, and jazz. “Sid” is a deep, meditative exploration of identity, relationships, and self-growth, spanning 29 minutes and 12 seconds across eight tracks. This album is a personal exploration of the complex emotions of mankind and the vitality and jubilation of life.
From the opening track, “Right Now,” Dian Sheng establishes a sense of urgency and reflection. The upbeat song “I Come From Far” examines the connection between the self and one’s environment. It has joyful beats and layers that make you think and feel like part of the narrative.
The jazz ballad “Undecided Love” delves into the complexities of modern romance, featuring tender vocals and instrumentation that showcase Sheng’s delicate touch as a songwriter. “It Will Be Alright” is an empowering anthem about overcoming life’s biggest obstacles, combining electronic beats with a rock influence.
“Seventeen” is bursting with youthful energy, and its production captures the restlessness and emotionality of adolescent life. Two introspective songs with similar atmospheres, “The Way Before” and “This Life,” match chilling melodies with moving lyrics that touch on bygone relationships, self-awareness, and the quest for meaning we all experience.
The album concludes with “Shining As Your Name,” and the final few minutes of this piece alone evoke a strong sense of hope. Dian Sheng demonstrates his ability to join emotional depth with new styles. “Sid” is an invitation into the rich musical universe of Dian Sheng, where you can both consider yourself and feel influenced.
Connect with Dian Sheng on | Facebook | X | Spotify | Instagram |
Written by:
Faith Koch
Artist Spotlight
Feel the vibe with Sporty-O’s new EP “The P.L.U.R. Project,” a blend of emotions and sound
“The P.L.U.R. Project” begins like a rush of light across a crowded dance floor as jubilant, purposeful, and very human. This seven-song, 29-minute journey from the EDM pioneer Sporty-O is a cultural reset built around peace, love, unity, and respect.
Sporty-O establishes the emotional timbre for the entire project from the first track of its lead single, “Spirit Higher.” The song is anthemic, its purposes well outlined despite a high-gloss production. It’s a centerpiece that establishes the mood of an intensive exploration of sound and self-awareness.
“The P.L.U.R. Project” is just as much about managing your feelings as it is about moving. Sporty-O creates each record with intention, writing things that make people think on the dance floor. Another high-energy song is “Happy Together,” with Lorme and Chris Willis, pulsing warmth and togetherness. “SOLD!” has a clean, feel-good sound that embodies the community spirit of EDM culture.
Sporty-O embraces a multi-genre EDM palette on the EP, fusing forward-thinking sounds with uptempo beats. Tracks like “Revolution” with Specimen A and “Geek’d Up” with Baby Sweet provide lots of energy and edge. “Piece Of My Mind” is more introspective, while “Cheveyo” features a diverse array of collaborators and culminates in a rich, layered sound, all while maintaining a global welcoming spirit.
What makes this project unique is that it serves both and reminds people of the origins of dance culture. Sporty-O aims to help people rediscover the heartbeat of the community. “The P.L.U.R. Project” is an EDM experience that reaches beyond the speakers, colorful and thoughtful about meaning in music-based culture.
Connect with Sporty-O on | Facebook | Spotify | Instagram | TikTok | Website |
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