Artist Spotlight

UP-AND-COMING CHICAGO ARTIST PRONTO VALID RELEASES NEW EP ‘MIDNITE FLOWERS’

The Chicago native artist, Pronto Valid, has released his new summer-time EP titled, ‘MIDNITE FLOWERS.’ The project gives an introspective look into the artist and his current mental and emotional state. The raw and gritty lyricism on all four tracks present a first-person take on the reality of being an artist in a day and age where entertainers and their mental health are taken for granted.

On the opening song, ‘GOAT,’ Pronto speaks on his humble-yet-hungry mindset that pushes his efforts as a musician, while taking a deeper look into why he has this mindset. Lyrics like, ‘Soldier in my blood- in my DNA, I got some blood that’ll never be buried no matter the prices they willing to pay,’ speak to his Bosnian-American roots. His reference to ‘blood that will never be burried’ is about his family members who were killed or went missing during the Balkan Wars in the 90’s as a result of genocide. Despite all of the hate and fake love, what keeps him motivated is his willingness to push past it all and reach high levels of success for his family that never had a chance to live out their lives.

The third song of the project, ‘GET AWAY,’ introduces a much more calm and introspective feeling throughout the EP. On this track, he explains his introvertedness as a result of cutting off childhood peers whose personality traits were toxic to his creative process as an artist and mental health as an individual. With very direct lyricism, he states; ‘If I could paint a perfect picture it would change with every peak, every glance, every minute, hour, second as we speak, There’s someone looking at it now who’s just like you and can’t be pleased, Always giving your critiques, With the same old shit you talked about at seventeen, Ain’t did shit since seventeen.’

To contrast with his sharp lyrics, the artist employs a laid-back style of production that aims to give you the feeling of a late night during the Summer. The washed-out synths in the background of his song, ‘DIE YOUNG,’ and the flagship song of the project, ‘AFTER HOURS,’ give a perfect example of the vibe he aims for while providing a strong kick/bass combo that sonically anchor all of the other elements of the songs and brings the project together.

Stay connected with: Pronto Valid

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.prontovalidofficial.xyz

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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.

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

“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.