Distracted

BY: AMY SCHWARTZ AND ALLIE RUSSELL

New artist Don Bloom has broken into the indie alt-rock scene with his first EP Digital Bloom. The project consists of three songs, its first song Free From U being Don Bloom’s breakout release. The EP showcases his emotional depth, combining introspective lyrics with catchy riffs and atmospheric production. Digital Bloom captures a blend of both emotional vulnerability and intensity, and establishes Don Bloom as a fresh voice in indie rock. 

While this is Don Bloom’s first release, the voice behind the alter ego, Isaac Rodriguez, is no stranger to the world of music. As the guitarist of heavy metal band We Weren’t Invited, Rodriguez has been making music professionally for over 3 years. But the sounds of his band versus his solo project are drastically different. “I’m in this band, and it’s this hardcore screamo band, but the music I made before I was in this band was a lot more like [Don Bloom]. This project is the music that comes most naturally to me.” 

The journey to Digital Bloom began over a year ago, when Rodriguez first set out to create something personal and self-produced. “The songs are inspired by love and depression” he explained, emotions that shaped the tone of the EP. Creating a solo project was refreshing for Rodriguez. Through the process he wrote seven songs, ultimately making the decision to narrow the final project down to three. While an EP this short is out of the ordinary, he felt it important to create a project that eases people into the new world of Don Bloom. 

For Rodriguez, being unpredictable is important. “I like to be somebody who nobody knows what i’m gonna do next” he says, “I don’t want to stick to one style”. Inspired by artists like Tame Impala, Daft Punk, Cage the Elephant, and Djo, he blends influences from indie rock, electronic, and alt-pop to create a sound that feels nostalgic, yet forward thinking. He also brings elements of his heritage and identity into focus, expressing a desire to eventually make music in Spanish and collaborate with latin artists such as Peso Pluma and FEID. For now, however, his goal is to continue releasing singles while exploring his artistic identity. “I’m still trying to figure out who I am and what the fuck i’m supposed to do”, he admits, embracing the fluidity of his artistic journey so far.  

With Digital Bloom, Don Bloom has solidified himself as an artist to look out for in the indie rock scene. With a slate of new singles set to drop in 2025, his future looks undeniably bright. If his debut release is any indication, Don Bloom is an artist whose journey will certainly be just as intriguing as his music.