Sarang / 사랑 by Sio

Sio is set to release her album Sarang / 사랑 on STY TRU BTS this month.

Photo by STY TRU BTS

Hailing from South Africa, the multi-hyphenate poet, DJ, and singer-songwriter is a force to be reckoned with - a rebellious artist with a unique outlook and voice. Preparing to share her visual album Sarang /사랑 on Kid Fonque's STY TRU BTS, Sio welcomes listeners into her sonic universe, unveiling a vulnerability like never before with an immersive blend of audio and cinematic storytelling.

This album is for a version of me that has more scope to dream than I did.
Sio

Presenting 11 heartfelt and deeply personal tracks, Sarang /사랑's offering of neo-soul is a joint project between herself and long-time collaborator and producer Daev Martian. With an expert technical prowess that both challenges and elevates Sio's creative input, both have worked together since Sio's first album, "sbtxts," with a synergy that showcases the best of both their artistries.

Sarang means "love" in Korean. The theme throughout is love, a love that makes you feel safe.
Sio

The album's first offering, "Twilight," celebrates the journey of life, inviting listeners to join her as she delves into introspection and legacy. Neo-soul erupts into Amapiano on "No Lymyt," the album's second release. At the same time, the closing track, "Hey Lover," is finally given the spotlight 16 years after its inception - "this album is a safe place for the song." Sio's spoken word glides over soundscapes, featuring two interludes, while the album's visuals, directed by Johannesburg-based creative Ray Manzana, further draw viewers into her poetic magic.

A previous Spotify Equal Ambassador for Africa, Sio represents a vibrant tapestry of unique stories from South Africa's unrivaled music scene, having built a reputation as one of the country's most sought-after voices. Now presenting her newest project to the world, packed with impeccable storytelling and soul-stirring lyricism, Sio unveils further depth to her brilliance with an album she claims "embraces a softer, more effortless side after years of fighting."

Sio - Sarang /사랑
Release Date May 2024
Label STY TRU BTS

Tracklist
01. Speak With It
02. Olympus
03. Stay Near
04. Debut
05. Hey Lover (Interlude) Pt.1
06. Air Lumes
07. Twilight
08. Hey Lover (Interlude) Pt.2
09. Autumn
10. No Lymyt
11. Hey Lover