I first heard about Stevie 808 when “Black Ice” dropped earlier this summer. At the time, I was genuinely impressed by how the production meshed with his collaboration with Olivia Melfi. The track had this captivating blend of atmospheric beats and emotive vocals that really stuck with me. So, when I found out the full EP was on its way, I was eager to dive in. Now that “808” is out, I can confidently say it didn’t disappoint. In fact, it exceeded my expectations, showcasing Stevie 808‘s growth as an artist and his ability to create a cohesive sonic experience.
The EP “808” is a compact but impactful collection, running just over 12 minutes. It kicks off with “Emotions,” featuring Gunnr, which sets the tone for the project. The track’s lyrics delve into the struggle of dealing with overwhelming feelings and memories, with lines like “Playin’ memories in my head / Run this one back rewind again” hitting close to home. It’s followed by the previously released “Black Ice,” which fits seamlessly into the EP’s flow. The inclusion of “Melted Wings Interlude” provides a nice breather and transition in the middle of the project, showing Stevie 808‘s attention to the overall listening experience.
“Not Enough” continues the emotional thread woven through the EP. The track’s introspective lyrics, like “Tell me that it’s not enough / Can’t keep up / Won’t you read the signs,” resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like they’re falling short. The EP closes with “Spillin’ Truth,” which brings the themes full circle. Throughout the project, Stevie 808 manages to balance catchy melodies with genuine emotional depth, creating a relatable and engaging listening experience.
As a producer, Stevie 808 (aka Steven DiPietro) brings an interesting background to his music. Starting with guitar at six and eventually moving into recording and production, his journey has clearly influenced his sound. The EP reflects his diverse musical influences, from alternative rock and grunge to melodic rap and hip-hop. This blend creates a unique sonic palette that sets Stevie 808 apart in the current music landscape. His production style, focusing on melodic vocal melodies supported by well-crafted beats, shows a maturity beyond his years.
The production quality of “808” is impressive, especially considering Stevie 808‘s relatively young career. If he continues releasing projects of this caliber, he’s definitely on the right path to making a name for himself in the industry. What stands out is how he manages to create a consistent vibe across the EP while still giving each track its own identity. It’s the kind of project that makes you excited to see what an artist will do next. If you haven’t given it a listen yet, I highly recommend checking out “808” on your preferred streaming platform. It’s a solid EP that’s perfect for those introspective late-night listening sessions or when you need a soundtrack to match your mood.
https://www.instagram.com/808stevie
