Italian-born post-punk, synth-pop and new-wave artist 2heart2crash has released his debut album, 22. Across eight tracks, the project fuses shadowy undertones with danceable energy, commanded by candid, emotionally exposed songwriting. Alessio Grancini (his real name) navigates questions of identity, communication, technology and vulnerability.
Built around feel-good, synth-forward production, the record pairs introspective themes with bright, infectious soundscapes. Opening track Acid sets the mood with a funky groove, unpacking feelings of alienation from familiar people and places. On Bad Guy, a sharp, addictive hook lingers long after the song fades. Help portrays a narrator who resists seeking support despite clear inner turmoil. A defining moment arrives with N1LikesU, bold and strikingly honest, as the narrator asserts their individuality while rejecting manipulation and toxic dynamics. The closing track, Psycho, wraps the album in upbeat melodies and repeated verses that make it undeniably catchy. Though the runtime sits at just over 20 minutes, the album feels expansive, enriched by polished production and lyrics that prompt deeper reflection.
Growing up in Italy, 2heart2crash developed his love for music early by attending numerous live shows in his hometown. Watching international acts ignite intense mosh pits and command explosive crowds left a strong impression, shaping the artistic vision that would later define his own creative path.
He first stepped into the spotlight as the lead vocalist of Edge in Imola, Emilia-Romagna. The band’s debut single, Edge, gained more than 6.5K views on BlankTV, a major DIY platform for punk, hardcore, metal, indie and underground music. Beyond the band, Grancini went on to produce and release a range of music and video art projects, including Graves by Parkshores featuring SuckerPunk. The work gained recognition from platforms such as Earmilk, 15MinutesNews, FMS and Alfitude.
Currently based in San Francisco, Grancini wrote and produced 22 entirely from his bedroom during a yearlong stay in a hacker house near North Beach. The project’s visual dimension was co-produced with Cole Daly, who worked on the videos, alongside Zeo Zhang, who contributed to visual direction and artistic development. Final music production was completed with Johnny Hits. Immersion in startup culture and tech founders left a noticeable imprint on both the themes and sonic palette of the album.
“It’s made up of the conversations I’ve had with myself along the way,” says 2heart2crash. “Admitting my mistakes and the failures of communication that followed me helped me release some of the ghosts that kept reminding me how bad things once were.”
At its core, the album investigates the tension between digital existence and authentic human connection. “No one knows you better than your devices. Texting, in particular, fascinates and disturbs me, not just its utility, but the anxieties, rhythms, and expectations it carries. Many people misunderstand the tech scene. I saw firsthand the effort, the risk, and the emotional toll that comes with building something from nothing. Artists and entrepreneurs are not so different. Both must believe in a vision long before anyone else does.”
Altogether, the release marks a significant milestone for 2heart2crash, solidifying his artistic voice. By merging underground music with reflections on contemporary culture, 22 captures the emotional intricacies of navigating life in a hyperconnected world.
“This project feels urgent, honest, and sonically distinctive,” says music publicist Danielle Holian, Decent Music PR. “It captures the anxiety, beauty, and contradictions of a generation shaped by both underground music and digital life. It’s not just a record, it’s a statement about where alternative music and visual culture are heading next.”