We last featured ACTVE CAPTVE for tapping into an emotional frequency for stripped back Live from Studio Greenhouse version of his hit single, Ellis Island, so when we found out that the talented artist was back with PSSSH!, we were curious to say the least, and couldn’t wait to immerse ourselves in his universe once more.
PSSSH! opens with a subtle piano soundscape and theatrical allure as ACTVE CAPTVE sings, “I guess you caught me dreaming baby, mix another summer daiquiri, can’t make lemonade when all the fruit’s been squeezed…”. The opus expands with a poignant reflection on the state of society and how we have a front row seat to the end of everything.
It philosophically documents the “self hate on every screen” and the darkness that our world offers at present in a very zeitgeist manner. In essence, the song is about information overload, anxiety and the overwhelming nature of existing in a world where bad news, outrage and chaos are constantly being thrust upon us.
ACTVE CAPTVE shows us how we are reaching a breaking point and lets it all out, in a very cathartic manner. The refrain is deliberately confrontational, but there is also something playful about it.
Fans of Twenty One Pilots, AWOLNATION, Glass Animals and grandson will totally be able to vibe with what ACTVE CAPTVE has created. There is also a strong cinematic quality to the song. We could imagine PSSSH! appearing in Gen V, The Day of the Jackal, The Boys, Black Mirror or Mr. Robot.
The accompanying visual concept takes this sense of catharsis even further. ACTVE CAPTVE takes over a rage room, smashing instruments and objects against a surreal backdrop of hot pink walls, artificial green turf and shattered debris.
As an artist, Justin Han describes ACTVE CAPTVE as “post-traumatic pop”, and that description feels particularly fitting here. Needless to say, we continue to be in awe of what ACTVE CAPTVE is creating, and have added PSSSH! to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of the visionary rising artist.