Dawson Fuss' debut EP holds nothing back, taking on themes of self-harm and male figures

In Dawson Fuss' debut EP, “Edge of Adolescence,” we're given a look into some of the most pivotal moments of the young artist's life. This one hit a lot of emotional notes for me, especially the track “Never Really Knew.” Speaking to the loss of a friend to suicide, it talks of regret and the lost moments that will never happen.

“Real Boys Don't Cry” looks at how young men struggle to keep up the stereotype of a strong male—never expressing emotion, never showing how they feel. The story shows a father trying to teach his son how in this world, real boys don't cry. In the end, the father succumbs to his own emotions, which shows me that this is a battle we carry all through our lives.

Vocally, Dawson has a strong sound that reflects his lengthy and diverse musical background. It's a “matter-of-fact” style that tells me he isn't seeking approval or applause for his work. He has a story to share and just wants you to listen. At the same time, the EP isn't jamming certain perspectives down your throat, but rather presenting them in a way that can be hard to ignore.

The sound of this album is really amazing. A pop artist, the instrumentation is varied, creating a sort of atmosphere that genuinely reflects the feelings of each track. “Edge of Adolescence” has a lot to offer, and don't be surprised when you think “wow, that was the same for me” after some of the songs.

The EP is available to stream and download on digital platforms worldwide. Keep up with Dawson’s journey via his website, Instagram or TikTok.