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Artist Spotlight

Single Review: Larry Jay – What Do I Have

A fantastic slice of country rock from the heartland, Larry Jay sings with soul on “What Do I Have”. Guitar playing is of the essence for he makes sure that the song unfurls along at its own pace. His voice remains steady throughout the duration. By far though the true highlight comes from the way he manages to bring all these many elements together, building them up until they become cinematic in scope. Everything about it displays an uncanny sense of timing, patience and atmosphere. Upon the song coming into bloom the amount of color that bursts forth in particular has a fantastic stately grace behind it. Volume is not a must it is a given for the way that the song increases in intensity gives it a whirlwind aspect to it one that feels undoubtedly lovely.

Things start off quiet, a hushed awe running though. Not much time is wasted before those sweet, reassuring elements are brought into the fray. Layer upon layer gets added with such serenity. Balance matters for there is a playfulness to the way he lets the song grow. Akin to a sheer force of nature, a gentle breeze becoming a great gust, there is something captivating about it. Lyrics feature a true understanding of the world. Sung with his personal experience there is a real, earnestness to all of it.

“What Do I Have” shows off the splendid storytelling of Larry Jay in speaking from an entire life lived to the absolute fullest.

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–B.S.

Album Review

Dian Sheng explores identity, life and love with “Sid” album

Dian Sheng

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.

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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

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Artist Spotlight

Feel the vibe with Sporty-O’s new EP “The P.L.U.R. Project,” a blend of emotions and sound

Sporty-O

“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.

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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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