FRIDAY DINGERS - 22.05.26

Steve Stinson - ‘Always On My Mind’

Steve Stinson introduces himself with ‘Always On My Mind’, a reflective and emotionally grounded debut single that blends folk, blues, and Americana with understated warmth and lyrical sincerity. Shaped by a life lived across continents and inspired by the storytelling depth of Bob Dylan, the atmospheric pull of Coldplay, and the melodic intimacy of The Fray, the track offers a heartfelt introduction to his forthcoming album Cocoon, a project centred on transformation, memory, and emotional honesty.

RVRIE - ‘Dark Waters’

RVRIE, the Beijing-based project of producer and songwriter Zefan Gao, introduces a strikingly cinematic vision with debut album ‘Reverie’, an ambient-pop and alternative-rock exploration of memory, nostalgia, and identity. Led by the immersive single ‘Dark Waters’, featuring contributions from Tim Lefebvre, the project transforms personal reflection into expansive, emotionally charged soundscapes, balancing avant-jazz textures, atmospheric production, and deeply introspective songwriting.

Jackson Mercer - ‘Anxiety’

Jackson Mercer steps into a more personal and emotionally direct chapter with ‘Anxiety’, a heartfelt pop single built around self-reflection, vulnerability, and staying true to yourself. Written, recorded, and produced entirely from his bedroom, the track transforms experiences with social anxiety into an uplifting and relatable anthem, pairing honest lyricism with melody-driven production and reinforcing Mercer’s growing reputation for emotionally grounded modern pop songwriting.

Cassandra Liu - ‘Chaos Is Me’

Cassandra Liu introduces herself with ‘Chaos Is Me’, a dark and atmospheric synth-pop debut that transforms philosophical introspection into something visceral and dancefloor-ready. Written, produced, and recorded entirely by the Chicago-based artist, the track draws inspiration from the concept of Zhuangzi’s Butterfly Dream, pairing conceptual electronica with soaring vocals and cinematic tension to create a bold first glimpse into her forthcoming album Madison Boulevard.

Angry Joe & The Holy Socks - ‘I’ll Run Away’

Houston outfit Angry Joe and the Holy Socks return with ‘I’ll Run Away’, a reflective and emotionally charged alternative rock single that pairs soaring melodies with a hazy, cinematic atmosphere. Drawing influence from Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Counting Crows, and The Lemonheads, the track explores memory, emotional confinement, and the longing to escape, reinforcing the band’s reputation for creating heartfelt music rooted in resilience and authenticity.