With “Feel,” Chicago-based artist Leo XIV (the musical alter ego of Dylan Leo Azadi) continues to carve out a distinctive sonic identity rooted in emotional depth and experimental precision. Following his debut single “Midas,” this sophomore release represents both a refinement and an expansion of his artistic vision, offering a glimpse into the atmospheric, introspective world that will likely define his forthcoming debut album, set for release in early 2026.
From the opening seconds, “Feel” establishes itself as a meticulously crafted piece of synth pop where rhythm, melody, and ambience operate in perfect symmetry. The production embraces a sense of restraint—never overwhelming, yet constantly pulsing with life. The beat is built around a steady, syncopated rhythm that merges the mechanical precision of electronic percussion with a very human sense of vulnerability. Each percussive element lands with purpose, allowing space for the song’s other textures to breathe. This measured rhythmic approach gives the track a heartbeat-like quality—steady, intimate, and emotionally resonant.
The synth work throughout “Feel” stands out as one of its most defining features. Leo XIV’s use of layered analog tones and evolving digital atmospheres gives the song both warmth and depth. The synths shimmer and oscillate between light and shadow, reflecting the track’s thematic duality of connection and isolation. At times, the arpeggiated lines evoke a retro sensibility reminiscent of 1980s electronic pop, yet their execution feels thoroughly contemporary, aligning with modern alt-pop aesthetics. The melodic lines drift in and out like waves, simultaneously grounding and transcending the listener.
Harmonically, “Feel” relies on subtle tension and release, with chord progressions that feel introspective and emotionally charged without veering into melodrama. This equilibrium between melancholy and euphoria is at the core of Leo XIV’s sonic language. His voice, processed delicately yet retaining an organic intimacy, glides over the instrumental backdrop with fluid ease. Vocals are neither dominant nor secondary—they merge into the soundscape as another instrument, carrying emotional weight through phrasing and tone rather than volume or excess.
Atmospherically, “Feel” inhabits a liminal space—a sonic landscape suspended between dream and reality. The production leans toward ethereal minimalism, emphasizing texture over density. Subtle reverb tails, airy pads, and glistening high frequencies create an immersive environment that feels infinite yet fragile. There’s a sense of vastness, as if the listener is floating through a cosmic expanse where each sound exists in perfect balance. The track’s emotional temperature remains cool, but its core pulses with quiet intensity.
Thematically, “Feel” continues Leo XIV’s exploration of vulnerability, identity, and transcendence. While the lyrics remain understated, they resonate through tone and delivery—an invitation to reflect rather than a declaration. The song’s introspective nature aligns with Leo XIV’s artistic philosophy, which channels pain, passion, and self-discovery through meticulously sculpted soundscapes. There’s a spiritual dimension at play, echoing his fascination with sacred geometry and metaphysical transformation.
In terms of structure, “Feel” is both linear and cyclical. Rather than building toward a conventional climax, it unfolds gradually, layering emotion and texture until it reaches a state of suspended catharsis. The final moments fade into ambient stillness, leaving behind a lingering echo—an emotional afterimage that mirrors the song’s title. This compositional choice reinforces Leo XIV’s commitment to immersive storytelling, guiding the listener through moments of light, darkness, and the void that lies between.
Ultimately, “Feel” exemplifies the high level of craftsmanship and emotional intelligence that defines Leo XIV’s emerging discography. It is a release of remarkable quality, one that seamlessly blends the precision of electronic production with the rawness of human experience. Each sonic detail feels intentional, each rhythm purposeful, each melody infused with meaning.
We are delighted to feature “Feel” on our webzine—not merely as another synth pop release, but as a genuine artistic statement. Leo XIV’s work invites listeners to engage not just with sound, but with the emotions and philosophies that shape it. “Feel” is more than a song; it is an atmosphere, a meditation, and a glimpse into an artist’s evolving universe—one where vulnerability becomes strength and sound becomes transcendence.