Chicago-based singer, songwriter, and producer Adan Diaz has released his newest EP, ah-dawn giving us all the feels. From Indie-rock to somewhat danceable Tiktok tunes and now a ballad. Yes. You’ve read that right.
The EP started with shake, shake a cross between that indie-rock guitar riff and bass synth lick emphasizing the main hook of the song. The synth keyboard line on the 2nd chorus added a character to the song making it a a great intro to the EP. Every time I listen to the track, it gives off this oozing energy that makes me want to shake my worries away.
jerk x2 started with an electronic drum pattern accompanied by an acoustic guitar line giving this mellow vibe to the track. The distorted bass line in the chorus created this emphasis on the overall track. What I like about Adan’s songwriting style is that it’s simple and easy to understand. The chorus hooks are short but catchy making each song memorable and easy to catch. The syncopated pattern after the last chorus is just chef’s kiss.
The middle touches on the topic of being brokenhearted after a relationship. What makes it interesting is the overall sound of the track. The track gives off this easy-feeling vibe but if you read and understand the lyrics, it hits you right in the spot.
Jsyk is the 4th track of the EP, giving this Tiktok trendy tune that is easy to move your hips with. The bass line on this track is hip and groovy adding this funk-ish vibe to the song. run it all back gave us this energetic indie-rock sound that we’ve been missing out on in the last few tracks. It started with this acoustic guitar lick followed by a distorted guitar riff and melodic overdriven/synthy guitar line that compliments this groovy, danceable vibe.
And finally, the last track of the EP, young picasso. For me, this is a right-of-passage track from that indie-rock and trendy tune to a more serious and introspective songwriting. This track created an opening for a wide array of themes and genres suited for a more mature and wider audience.
Overall, The ah-dawn EP is storytelling in the highest form. From being this young angsty teenager to a more loving and mature man is a testament that any artist can and will surpass their sound and creativity. Any artist that goes out of their comfort zone is not a sell-out. Sometimes, it’s just the right move.
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About the Author
He has been in the music industry for two and a half decades. Currently, he plays bass guitar for a rock-reggae band called EnjointPh and a funk-fusion trio called Banky. He also hosts a podcast titled Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana, which explores topics such as music, arts, and philosophy.
