02/13/2026
Dear Gem and Jam,
This year was unlike any other year. While so much was just as incredible, the experiences and inspiration I had was very much on a level all its own. I performed a set with over half of it being original music and I got to see my close friends do the same. Seeing the community level up and bringing their own sound was incredible. Iβm grateful to have a group of friends that is continuously expanding and breathing new life into the industry. The weeks leading up to this event had devastated me and this was a much needed distraction to say the least.
I left a version of me at this festival and I am happy to have shed that previous coat. Iβm back in the real world where all of the things going on in my life were waiting. Now more than ever I have to sit alone with myself and focus on the reasons I started music. That was to express my emotions, my experiences, and my self in hopes of resonates with others and allows to do the same.
The vision for this project is still being developed and Iβll never take for granted the opportunity I have to create it. 2026 is going to be full of doing the uncomfortable but necessary things I tend to avoid . I hope by doing them I can experience the pride I felt during this weekend. Itβs rare to feel that way without worrying about being cocky or braggadocious.
So thank you Gem and Jam for reminding what art music and community are created for.
With love,
Lugh