Summerhaze EP from Toronto’s Jozem is a profound exploration of emotional duality, where the warmth of summer collides with inner turbulence. The title track ‘Summerhaze’ encapsulates this tension beautifully. The song, inspired by a close friend’s concealed heartbreak, is a poignant reflection on the contrast between outward appearances and inner struggles. Jozem’s haunting vocals glide over a minimalistic yet rich soundscape, blending elements of R&B, soul, and electronic music, creating a mood that is both introspective and universally relatable.

In ‘Summerhaze’, Jozem masterfully conveys the facade we often maintain to fit in with the seasonal joy, while internally battling our own storms. His lyrics are both personal and allusive, offering listeners a glimpse into his own soul while allowing them to project their own experiences onto the music. The track’s atmosphere is thick with emotional depth, yet it remains subtle, never overwhelming the listener. It’s a reminder of the importance of vulnerability, and the bittersweet beauty of those summer days when everything seems perfect on the surface, yet something darker lurks beneath. Overall, Summerhaze is a testament to Jozem’s ability to turn personal pain into art that resonates deeply with others.

“I wrote the song Summerhaze after a negative experience a close friend was going through. Because I knew him well, I could tell that he was deeply affected by this experience but did not want it to dampen the mood, so we would just pretend that things were all good – it was summer after all and we were supposed to be out, enjoying the sun and having fun. With time, I realized I started taking on his pain a little, but neither of us at the time knew how to acknowledge or engage in meaningful conversation and instead participated in various unhealthy forms of escapism. It got me thinking about how, often we will put on brave faces so we aren’t the ones bringing the mood down, pretend we have it all figured out, but that ultimately, those close to us can see right through the facade! Over the years, as we deal with much heavier, more profound experiences, it has become a reminder to be more open and forthcoming with those we care about, to trust them (and ourselves) a little more; to allow those we love to help us heal…”

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