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Sixsense's latest single, "AYANNA," is a vibrant and soulful fusion that injects new life into the music scene. Drawing inspiration from Afrobeat rhythms and Latin-infused R&B, Sixsense delivers a track with infectious energy and heartfelt lyrics. The song, described by Sixsense as a blend of a love anthem and a poignant reflection on the passage of time, strikes a chord with listeners on a deeply emotional level. As the music unfolds, listeners are transported on a journey filled with nostalgia, longing, and hope. "AYANNA" showcases Sixsense's ability to craft evocative melodies that resonate with audiences worldwide. The seamless fusion of acoustic and electronic elements creates a dynamic and immersive soundscape that captivates from start to finish. Born and raised in the bustling city of Santiago de Chile, Sixsense infuses his music with the rich cultural heritage of his upbringing. With influences ranging from Afrobeat to Latin music, Sixsense brings a unique perspective to his sound that sets him apart in the industry. In this release, Sixsense's emotive vocals take center stage, delivering introspective and relatable lyrics. From the smooth delivery to the heartfelt expression, Sixsense pours his heart and soul into every word, cordially inviting his audience to connect with the record personally. With its intoxicating rhythms, wistful lyrics, and mesmerizing vocals, "AYANNA" is a testament to Sixsense's talent as a musician and storyteller. As the single continues to make waves in the music world, it's clear that Sixsense is poised for great success in the industry. Instagram Facebook

Following up on his promise is singer-songwriter and captivating country recording artist Trent Prewitt. In August 2023, he announced the release of his highly anticipated debut album, Highway To Me. Now, he's treating listeners far and wide to a masterful blend of country sounds, past and present. Trent Prewitt has quickly made a name for himself through tracks like "Read Your Mind" and "Redneck Royalty." Landing over 2K monthly listeners on Spotify since he started dropping tunes last year, Prewitt recently teamed up with writers Corey Lee Barker and Jaqueline Burke Veaudry and producer Kimo Forest for his 10-track album, Highway To Me. He says it's a "compilation of modern, traditional, and classic country sounds," inviting listeners on a sonic road trip through the nation. The new album opens with one of the most impactful songs in Trent Prewitt's discography. In the album's title track, "Highway To Me," Prewitt takes us through healing, finding oneself, and rebuilding the highway back to his inner peace. It's a beautiful intro track that prepares us for some toe-tapping fun in track number two, "Redneck Royalty," the poster child of country songs sung by the self-proclaimed poster child of country music. It's a fun-loving, classic country groove that kicks that album into full gear. But hold on just a minute; the real party starts in track number three, "Honky Tonk Central," where Trent Prewitt paints picturesque scenes of American flags flying high, playing country music 'til the sun rises, and celebrating the lifestyle down in Honky Tonk Central. Ramping up the passion in "Small Town Love Story," Trent Prewitt takes us back to an innocent time when nothing else mattered but making your big escape with a lover. It's a feel-good homage to small-town love and its big impact. Keeping the theme of love alive is track five, "Shine," where Trent Prewitt gets the most vulnerable we've seen from him. This stunning ballad sees Prewitt channeling Shakespeare to find the right words to describe just how grateful he is for this shining star of a person. With a tender twang and gentle groove in "Pass Me By," Trent Prewitt blends in nostalgic traditional country sounds and nuances to make one of the most melodic songs on the album. The dynamic back and forth between the pedal steel guitar and fiddle is top-tier. Laying it on the line is song seven, "We Need To Talk," where Trent Prewitt navigates the dreaded words no one in a relationship wants to hear. This track dives into his world with deeply relatable lyrics and an emotional country twang to keep the spirit and passion alive. So, what happens next? Trent Prewitt reaches for his old friend in "Hello Beer," a feel-good, playful tune that honors ye old drink, the mood it sets, and its pivotal role in country music culture that's synonymous with good times and even better company. In a similar listening experience, Prewitt reminds us of his faithfulness and loyalty to the ultimate dynamic duo, "Tequila and Tacos." Because why have one when you could have both? We love this track's playful (and relatable) nature, not to mention the gentle rhythm that keeps us swaying to the beat. The same can be said about the soothing feel of the album's outro track, "When I Get Where I'm Going." The gentle piano and Trent Prewitt's tender vocals portray a never-ending growth journey. Until he gets to his destination with the Man upstairs, he remains committed to keeping his heart and mind open and making the most of his time on Earth under the guidance of God's amazing grace. There is, without a doubt, no better way to close off such an impactful album than with a message like that. Hear it yourself and experience a rich blend of traditional, modern, and classic country sounds through Trent Prewitt's 10-track debut album, Highway To Me, now available on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram Facebook

Dave Luv, a rising star from the vibrant city of Chicago, has unleashed a sonic gem with his latest single, "Some Days." This track isn't just music; it's a kaleidoscope of emotions, a testament to Dave's journey through life's twists and turns. "Some Days" blends elements from diverse genres into a seamless sonic tapestry. Dave's music defies easy categorization, from the opening chords to the final crescendo, offering listeners a refreshing departure from the norm. At its core, "Some Days" reflects Dave's evolution. Born from the challenges of the pandemic era, the song captures the highs and lows of the human experience with poignant lyricism and electrifying energy. Each note feels like a brushstroke on the canvas of Dave's soul, painting a vivid picture of his innermost thoughts and emotions. Directed by the visionary Nick Jandora, known for his groundbreaking work with artists like Lil Skies and Arizona Zervas, the music video for "Some Days" is a visual feast for the senses. From captivating visuals to unexpected twists, the video amplifies the song's message, inviting viewers on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. Despite initial reservations, Dave fully embraces Nick's creative vision, embodying the song's themes of boldness and vulnerability. The result is a video that transcends expectations, leaving a lasting impression on all who watch it. "Some Days" has struck a chord with fans worldwide, earning praise for its thought-provoking lyrics and relatable message. As Dave continues to push the boundaries of his artistry, his music will undoubtedly resonate with listeners, inspiring them to embrace their own journey with courage and authenticity. Welcome to BUZZ, Dave Luv! We're thrilled to have you here chatting about the release of the vulnerable "Some Days." Your music blends elements from diverse genres. How do you approach genre-bending, and what do you hope listeners take away from this fusion? I try to take real feelings and find sounds that match, or find a sound and then find the words that match the feeling it evokes. I try not to focus too much on what genre I’m working in but rather on what kind of vibe I’m creating. If you nail the vibe, people will connect with it, and that rings true for everything from hip-hop to pop and even EDM. I think the biggest thing I want listeners to take away from it is that you don’t need to follow any sort of set of “rules” to make good music. "Some Days" captures various emotions, from sadness to acceptance. Can you share the inspiration behind the song and how you channel your personal experiences into your music? I had gone through a pretty rough breakup, and all of the emotions surrounding it were so mixed daily that the writing just came naturally. I was in the studio when my friend Moshi texted me & asked me for some advice about his similar situation. At that moment, it kind of dawned on me that everyone experiences heartbreak in the same way. How they handle it and what it looks like may manifest differently, but the feeling is almost universal. Some days, you wake up patting the spot where someone used to lay in your bed, wondering where they are, and others, you wonder why you ever let them in that spot to begin with. Heartbreak is one of those things that you can’t avoid and have to just go straight through when it happens & you’re really just along for the ride at that point. It's remarkable how your lyrics delve into introspective themes. How do you balance personal storytelling and creating music that resonates with a broader audience? Every person is unique; we all experience life differently through different eyes. One universal thing is emotion. Whether or not people choose to show it personally, the feelings are always there. I’ve always found music therapeutic, a way to put words to the noise inside my head when I needed it most. When you hear a song that describes exactly how you’re feeling and have that moment of realization that someone else is going through what you are, it’s an indescribable feeling. I don’t worry about people judging me for talking about real stuff or anything like that; the ones who would do that— will do that— no matter what, so I don’t let it get to me. I know what I’ve created has helped certain people through things as they’ve reached out to me, so I’ll always continue to do exactly what I do for people like them. The song "Some Days" explores the theme of chasing happiness amidst life's uncertainties. What message do you hope listeners take away from this track, especially during challenging times? I want listeners to know that despite the ups and downs of heartbreak, things get better. Learn to appreciate the downs, and it makes the ups even better (when you find the right person). You can apply that to a broader theme, too, life in general, really. As an artist, how do you see your music evolving in the future, and what impact do you hope to make with your artistry? I’m unsure where I’ll go next, but I always try to build upon my previous styles. I like to add new and innovative ways to my music that grow the sound, but I don't outright change it. I like to just do the best I can to create good music that sounds true to who I feel I am as a person. I hope to show people that as long as you’re real and authentically yourself— things will work out for you. Instagram Twitter

It’s tough to navigate the internal struggles that live within us all. Driven by a clear artistic vision and a burning desire to inspire through his music, American Afro-Fusion artist Na’Jaii has quickly established himself as a premier underground talent with the skills to make it big. Drawing influence from icons in the industry like Drake, SZA, and Burna Boy, he’s constantly found ways to channel his personal experiences and music affinities, expressing them in ways that make his sound uniquely his. As he gears up and puts the finishing touches on his upcoming EP “Jaded,” keep Na’jaii on your radar; you’ll thank us later. Blending R&B and Afro-Soul with acutely personal narratives and honest lyricism, Na’jaii’s releases connect with listeners intimately. Yes, he’s human and has his faults, but he has his strengths too. Although you can tell he struggles at times, he’s not afraid to reflect on these struggles, which helps his narratives shine. His releases feel authentic, which drives a rare and captivating emotional connection. Faithful to his friends, community, and collective Team Fever, this talented musician feels destined for big things. Driven by a thumping, addictive bassline and his smooth delivery, Na’jaii’s latest release, “Anaesthesia,” slips you into a delicate yet vibrant soundscape. A strong release in its own right, “Anesthesia” is a testament to Na’Jaii’s continued artistic maturation and the good things to come on “Jaded.” “You say you ain’t trippin you got options,” Na’jaii sings, tersely navigating the emotional landscape at his feet. Fittingly, Na’Jaii describes “Anesthesia” as an “intricate blend of managing pain and existing in a state of detachment from one's usual self.” His dialogue and impassioned vocals captivate and entertain as he grapples with his emotions internally. Na’Jaii’s “Anesthesia” is a groovy, introspective release that’s sure to be a hit with any R&B or Afro-Soul enthusiasts. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Na’Jaii’s latest release, “Anesthesia,” on all majour streaming platforms. Watch for his “Jaded” EP on the 8th of March. Instagram

Elise Harper’s latest single “Bartender Therapy” has been available on streaming platforms since January 5, 2024.  Along with the song, a music video was released to YouTube March 23, 2024. Elise has dedicated this short film to her best friend and cowriter, Craig Wilson, who unexpectedly passed March 23, 2023.  There is nothing more she wants than to honor Craig’s memory and “Bartender Therapy” was always his favorite song. “Bartender Therapy” is by far the most classic country tune that Elise has produced. The acoustic guitar, piano, and percussion introduce a song that is heart-felt and relatable. When the kiss of pedal steel enters the mix you instantly feel you are sitting in a dive bar with a broken heart ready to drown your sorrows. Elise’s mellow, evocative voice, and stirring lyrics will pull at your heart strings, arousing strong memories. “Bartender Therapy” was written by Elise Harper, Sarah Jones, Jason Lane, and Craig Wilson. The song was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, on music row in the famous Sienna Recording Studios; produced by Craig Wilson, mixed by Tim Brennan, and mastered by David Veslocki. Instrumentalists on the song include Ryan DeMers playing electric guitar and pedal steel, Craig Wilson playing piano, Bryan Good on drums and percussion, Christopher Donohue playing bass, and Zach Moody on acoustic guitar and providing background vocals. Story telling has always been Elise’s favorite part of music. The opportunity to capture “Bartender Therapy” in video form feels transformational. Elise would like to thank videographer, Joey Jacob and the JACO Collective team, for the incredible job they did portraying Elise’s vision on screen. Elise has partnered with Joey on several projects and finds him a joy to work with. Joey is as professional as they come, always making the set a fun, warm, and safe space to be truly authentic. The music video was filmed at Party Fowl, a local Nashville restaurant, where Elise has worked as a server and bartender. Elise would like to thank Austin Smith, owner of Party Fowl, for allowing her to film in his establishment. She loves the company, their core values, and her co-workers, some of whom premiered in the video! She feels beyond blessed to have worked at Party Fowl. If you are ever in Nashville she recommends that you stop and enjoy the food and atmosphere at one of their several locations. The opening scene of the video finds Elise in her therapist’s office talking through her problems. The scene cuts to Elise at a bar with her friends talking over drinks. Elise’s phones continually buzzes with text messages from her ex who has decided that he wants to come back into her life. She has struggled and worked hard to get over him. Elise flips the phone over and ignores the messages; she is working to put the past behind her; working to heal from the pain. As the video continues you see scenes flashing back and forth of Elise in her therapy sessions, attempting to work through her feelings alternating with shots of Elise hanging with her friends at the bar trying to move on. One of the friends sitting at the table notices a handsome stranger at the bar looking over at Elise. She gestures to Elise, who turns around and smiles in approval. As the video progresses Elise’s ex fails to get the message as she continues to ignore his texts. The bartender continues serving more rounds to Elise and her friends, including the handsome stranger, who smiles as he sips his whiskey at the bar. At the end of the video, you see the handsome stranger sitting at the bar with his drink holding the hand of the bartender. As the camera pans out it reveals Elise as the bartender, a fun, unexpected twist. The video ends with Elise happily smiling at her new love interest. The “Bartender Therapy” music video tells a contemporary, poignant, heartfelt story. The memorable music, beautifully shot videography, and relatable storyline draws you in, making it hard to look away. Instagram

In the vibrant world of Detroit's jazz scene, saxophonist Duane Parham shines like a supernova. Renowned for his innovative flair and unparalleled talent, Parham's latest single, "My Turn," is a testament to his boundless creativity and musical prowess. As a revered figure in Smooth Jazz, R&B, and Gospel Music circles, Parham's artistry knows no bounds. Beyond his musical endeavors, he's a beacon of inspiration as a dedicated teacher and esteemed minister of music. His contributions haven't gone unnoticed, earning him prestigious accolades, including five Mayoral Proclamations of Achievement from esteemed leaders like Mayor Coleman A. Young and Dennis W. Archer, alongside the Spirit of Detroit Award from the Honorable Mayor Dave Bing. Now, with "My Turn," Parham delivers a sonic masterpiece destined to ignite the airwaves. The track pulsates with infectious energy from the get-go, inviting listeners on a euphoric musical journey. Parham's saxophone weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of sound, effortlessly blending jazz, funk, and soul elements into a groove-laden anthem. From the moment the first note hits, "My Turn" exudes an irresistible charm that's impossible to resist. Each melody celebrates life, love, and the universal language of music. With its catchy hooks and infectious rhythm, this track will have you tapping your feet and moving to the beat in no time. In "My Turn," Duane Parham once again proves why he's a force to be reckoned with in jazz. With his unparalleled talent and infectious energy, he's ready to take center stage and claim his rightful place in the hearts of music lovers everywhere. Welcome to BUZZ, Duane Parham! Thanks for inviting us into your world with "My Turn." It's such a vibrant and energetic track that's truly felt more than heard. Can you share the inspiration behind its creation and what message you hope listeners take away? My main inspiration for writing “My Turn” was to satisfy all of my fans with something new, fresh, and funky and, in so doing, draw them into my funky groove like a magnet. I'm declaring succinctly, "It's "My Turn" to get in the groove, drop it like it's hot, and make it do what it does! As a multifaceted artist involved in Smooth Jazz, R&B, and Gospel Music, how do you approach blending different genres in your music, and what draws you to each of these styles? As a young teenager, I was drawn to smooth jazz by Grover Washington Jr. and confirmed by Gerald Albright. My mentors were some of Motown's greatest musicians, such as Ernie Rogers and Teddy Harris. Ernie Rogers shaped me not only as a musician but also as a person. Today, I live by some of the values he instilled. My 2021 release of "Your Precious Love" is a cover for the original Marvin Gaye and Tammy Terrell's song of the '60s. Not only was Motown their town, it's also my town! I have worked with Motown artists like The Four Tops, The Contours, The Vandellas, and Pat Lewis. solidified that genre in my soul. RnB is stamped on my brain. Growing up in the church, listening to "church music," some gospel and some "uplifting music," gave me a sense of "no matter what the world does, I can make it."  Therefore, combining all three genres in consciousness is what flows from my horn.  No matter the genre, peace, harmony, and restfulness emerge from my saxophone. Your career is marked by musical accomplishments and your contributions to the community, earning recognition from esteemed leaders. How does your role as a teacher and minister of music influence your artistry? All of those elements define who I am. Therefore, they influence my words and actions. We are what we believe. As my autobiography, Can You Hear Me Now? reiterates that my life is a compilation of stories. "Every story has a plot...each plot is a life lesson, and each life lesson is a key to survival, solidarity, and self-direction." Self-discovery is the key to a positive life direction. With your vast experience in the music industry, what advice would you give aspiring artists looking to make their mark and stay true to their artistic vision? Music is an art, but becoming successful in the music industry means understanding that it is also a business. They go hand-in-hand. Many musicians allow others to conduct their business while they "blow their horn." That is a mistake. Just as a horn blows many beautiful melodies, successive life strategies lead in numerous directions to produce beautiful life memories. Enjoying one does not eliminate understanding another. Learn the intricacies of both. What can fans expect from you regarding future projects or collaborations? Are there any exciting ventures on the horizon that you can share with us? Future projects include a Sugar Melts album to be released in 2024 or 2025. Facebook Twitter

Hailing from Richmond Hill, Ontario, is singer-songwriter, versatile recording artist, and self-proclaimed 'huge nerd' Katie Dauson with her latest 10-track album, Fool's Gold. Having graduated with honors from the Creative Advertising program at Seneca College and the Video Game Design and Development program at The Toronto Film School, Katie Dauson is no stranger to creative ventures. But, with music close to her heart, she recently embarked on performing in May 2022. And with a slew of dynamic releases under her belt, including her recent album Fool's Gold, Dauson is settling into Toronto's music scene quite nicely. In her latest album, Dauson kicks off the experience with the intro track, "Dizzy," a toe-tapping, jazzy groove that introduces listeners to Katie Dauson's playful and animated vocal stylings, relatable lyrics and witty storytelling that keeps our attention locked. Making her way into the country-infused "I Can't Wait To Tell You," she jumps into another fun-loving, go-getting tune that sparks a sense of adventure and excitement to reconnect with someone special at long last. Slowing things down with "Rodeo Riders," Katie Dauson continues the subtle country twang while embracing the rodeo culture, watching it with loved ones, and the high-energy spirit that keeps her coming back. In track four, "Galactic Buckaroo," Katie Dauson takes us to the outer space rodeo and ramps up the energy with a toe-tapping country groove alongside her storytelling lyrics of a galactic buckaroo traveling the cosmos on new adventures. Keeping the fun-loving spirit alive is track five, "Blue," with a warm country instrumental and Katie Dauson's carefree vocals expressing the importance of being happy and free and sharing our time on this earth with those who mean most to us. Reaching the album's title track, "Fool's Gold," Katie Dauson does what she does best and tells a playful story of ye' old diggers searching for the jackpot, only to discover that it's just "Fool's Gold," something that might make you 'feel' rich but isn't worth a pretty penny. Continuing into the second half of the album with track six, "Doris' Drive," Katie Dauson channels her inner storyteller to tell the tale of lonely Doris, who takes the open road to feel alive. In track seven, "Big City Blues," Katie Dauson blesses us with what feels like a 60s surf rock meets modern country sound, leaving us chanting along with her catchy lyrics that honor the roots of small towns and how big cities can leave us feeling exhausted. In the ninth song, "Midnight Train Ride," it seems as though Katie Dauson has finally cured her big city blues with a train ride out of there. While she describes a midnight ride to the sun, Dauson reminds us of the importance of seeking adventures in life. And reaching the final track of the album, "Lovers In A Dangerous Time," Katie Dauson blesses listeners with one of the most beautiful songs on the album, an ode to love and how it can conquer anything, as it's the most powerful force on the planet. Katie Dauson touched on a few concepts throughout her album Fool's Gold. Most notably, the thrill of seeking adventures, the dizzying times we live in, and how love can help us conquer the world's sadness. Hear it for yourself and find Katie Dauson's newest 10-track album, Fool's Gold, on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram Facebook

What does a lullaby for a life's dream sound like? How does it feel to rush parallel to the course of the world and still lose touch in your isolation? What would it be like not living up to your expectations and throwing them away? Nala Tessloff asks herself these questions in her songs and finds only one answer in her brokenness: there is also beauty and truth in giving up, in failure. This is evident in her voice, which is given enough space to unfold in her productions. Nala Tessloff casually describes her compositions as a "doomsday soundtrack" and thus hits a notch that could not be more topical given the prevailing conditions. When heavy motions again take over, she sits down at the keys of her Bechstein grand piano - on which Leonard Bernstein is said to have played - and channels the flow of thoughts into poetry that glows in its shades of gray. Completing the sonic spectrum are meticulously read sounds, such as the 1940s "Rolling Bomber" drum set, which gets its characteristic sound from metal primarily used for weapon production. The alternate wood components used create a warm depth that is unique in its form. Consequently, Nala Tessloff’s examination of violence and its effects extends to the materiality of the instruments used. A conceptual approach that goes hand in hand with her practice as a performance artist and is also evident in the production of the first music video that plays in one of her installations. In their totality, Nala's productions are like a protective chamber freed from all constraints, where the listener can retreat to momentarily escape the world's brutality. They give space to discover a (true) strength in one's weakness. They are finely curated sounds in which one may feel protected and let oneself go. Or as Nala herself describes it: "The songs don't want anything. They are rather something I just had to get rid of. I hope to touch people and give comfort, maybe just by knowing that they aren’t alone with a feeling." In this sense, Nala's songs speak a universal language that is accessible and embracing. And in the end, there is the important realization that we all share the same emotions and are connected through them.

Singer-songwriter and pop sensation MADI K is kicking off her 2024 releases with a bang with her innovative, club-ready new single, "Fantasy." Australia's pop star has made a notable entry in the music scene through The Voice Australia in 2019 and 2019, not to mention her remarkable debut EP Homemade Remedy, surpassing 225,000 streams on Spotify alone. While the pop and R&B greats deeply influence her vocals, MADI K is exploring a new sound that's bound to make you move your feet. In her latest single, "Fantasy," MADI K makes it hard to ignore the exhilarating production that's equally spicy and sweet, just like her. It's a sweaty, blurry, captivating anthem about post-night-out infatuation that leaves you fantasizing about this mystery person for days. This speaker-melting banger isn't something to miss. "Fantasy" quickly bursts open with a hypnotic bass line that grabs our attention. As the pulsating beat makes its way in alongside MADI K's sultry vocals, she sets the scene perfectly of a sweaty nightclub and losing yourself in a new person's presence. It's a euphoric anthem that's bound to hit a club's speakers near you. MADI K's sexy and silky smooth vocal performance is powerful. Combined with the impeccable house production, reminiscent of her muses like Jax Jones, MNEK, Tiesto, and Alesso, it makes for one of the hottest indie electronic songs we've heard. And for a talented, dynamic artist like MADI K, we wouldn't expect anything less. Get your feet moving and blood pumping with MADI K's hot new single, "Fantasy," now available on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram Facebook

Welcome to Buzz, Johann! We truly admire the thought and emotion put into your debut 8-track album, Surrendering Sunday. What inspired you to transform this 2022 single into your debut album? Thank you so much! To this day, Surrendering Sunday is my favorite song that I've put out, and I've always felt it deserved more than just being the fifth track off an EP. That's it, really. I love the song and believe it should have a pack to lead. It's become this template for how I want my future songs to sound—warm guitars, impactful drums, easy-to-follow in terms of lyrics and song structure, the whole bit. Of course, it's too early for me to determine what my next song or project will sound like, but I know that Surrendering Sunday (and the other songs on this album) will always be a point of inspiration as we go. What was the most challenging part about creating such a vulnerable and emotional album like Surrendering Sunday? Did you face any personal challenges or difficulties along the way? It's funny. The most challenging thing about making this album had nothing to do with writing or being in the studio. In all honesty, 2023 wasn't a good year for me overall. My mental health wasn't in a good place, to put it simply—and I guess that's where the emotion and vulnerability came from. Due to this, recording my vocals and mixing everything after that took much longer than we had anticipated, but that's just life. All that aside, the rest of the recording process (guitars, bass, drums, etc.) was quick and seamless. Things are better now, and I can look back at this experience fondly. What was your experience collaborating with best friend, co-writer, producer, and engineer Aleks Liskauskas for Surrendering Sunday? What was that behind-the-scenes process like? Aleks is why the album-making process has been extraordinary and memorable—despite everything going on last year. I recorded all the guitars for my 2022 EP, Becoming Routine, with him at his studio, including Surrendering Sunday. Even then, I knew I'd be working with him more and was surprised that we hadn't collaborated on anything prior. Not only is Aleks a gifted engineer, producer, vocalist, and writer, but he also has many of the same musical influences and references I do when making music. He's easy and fun to be around, and working with him is no different. I love him and am grateful he's one of my best friends. I'm excited about what we'll work on next! Aside from "Surrendering Sunday," which song from the album is your favorite, and what makes it so special to you? It's tough, of course, just because I genuinely love all the songs on the album and fully believe in their roles about one another. But, to answer your question, It Wouldn't Be Sincere is the runner-up here. Like Surrendering Sunday, the writing and completion of it were effortless—I feel my best songs come about this way. It's also fun because of its open D guitar tuning, which is a pretty-sounding tuning that I've never experimented with beforehand. For me, what makes it special is its overall sentiment. Though I wasn't conscious of it at the time, I wrote It Wouldn't Be Sincere about my ex and how it was my fault for how our relationship ended. The song is simply an apology to her. However, though I'm taking full responsibility for my mistakes here, revisiting any romantic connection with her wouldn't be right. It's the album's most "Coming of Age movie" song, from what everyone tells me. How do you hope Surrendering Sunday impacts listeners? What do you want them to feel and experience with this album? Though Surrendering Sunday deals with things like burnout, heartbreak, low self-esteem, mental health, and the lack thereof, I promise you it's a fun listen! That's what most songs and albums are—sad music disguised in energetic melodies, pretty production, and rhythm. This album is the most "me" thing we've worked on and put out. I say that because, sonically, it's a love letter to all the artists and bands I listened to growing up—Billy Talent, Foo Fighters, Incubus, Jeff Buckley, Paramore (I can name so much more). Surrendering Sunday isn't a 90s/00s tribute kind of album, but you can't help but wear your influences on your sleeve and show love to those who shaped you creatively. Regarding how I want listeners to experience and feel—well, that's totally up to them. It belongs to everyone at the end of the day, and whatever it conjures within someone else is out of my hands. Despite its sorrowful lyrical themes, Surrendering Sunday is a positive/problem-solving album, and I trust that listeners will recognize it as a safe space to vent and to be not ok, which is ok. I'm eternally thankful for everyone who has listened so far, and I'm happy that this album is somewhat of a starting point for hopefully a long musical journey. Read more on Johann's "Surrendering Sunday" here. Instagram Website