The musical endeavour of Christian LaKroy, Emotion 8 isn't just another band charting hybrid rock sounds; it’s a deep dive into the moments and emotions that makes us who we are. As project's moniker hints at, it’s a musical exploration of eight core human emotions – inspiration, anger, sadness, fear, joy, surprise, trust, and disgust – all artfully put to music.

Their latest offering, ‘Straight 2U’, took inspiration from an iconic and greatly missed figure in music. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the late Chester Bennington, a testament to the profound influence of Linkin Park's early work on LaKroy. As he shared, one winter evening he was listening to early Linkin Park albums and was inspired to create the song. It’s about people's drive toward something meaningful in their lives — about those who are searching for salvation.

A potent example of the "Rocktronic" sound that Emotion 8 has created, ‘Straight 2U’ is a track that nestles neatly into a hybrid of rock, electronic, pop, and rap. It's a song to be felt as much as heard, effortlessly fusing elements into a new wave of metal that embraces glitching electronics, polished pop hooks, and evocative, memorable progressions.

This hybrid approach perfectly suits Emotion 8's vision, culminating in a style that is both expansive and deeply personal. The track itself is a study in dynamic contrast, opening with poignant, pop-infused reflections that ultimately explodes into a powerful rock anthem in its final minute, driven by the heft of heavy guitars and prominent percussion that truly leave their mark. That influence of early Linkin Park is there, not as cheap copy, but as a touching and enjoyable tribute.

LaKroy envisions his music as a "sonic shield against the emotional overload of the modern world," aiming for every listener to connect with the sentiment. It’s something exemplified in ‘Straight 2U’, offering a sincere human connection wrapped in a polished fusion of rock sounds.

To connect with Emotion 8, be sure to join them on Instagram and Facebook.