Jason Ross Drops Melodic Monstercat Masterpiece, The ‘Divergence EP’

Jason Ross leverages his versatile production skills in his FIRST Monstercat EP, Divergence, crafting a journey through sounds that’s both uplifting and emotionally raw. Building upon the success of his latest EP, Convergence, which featured smash hits like “One More Day” with Blanke and Chandler Leighton and “Wild Ones” with Nevve, he defies genre standards by fusing hardstyle, trance, rocktronic, and melodic dubstep. This five-track project marks a period of personal and artistic evolution for Ross, showcasing his embrace of new influences without straying from his authentic sound. At its core, Divergence is a celebration of growth, resilience, and the power of staying grounded in your own identity. I previously reviewed the track “Wake Up” which can be found here.

Divergence opens with “Space Between,” where Olivver the Kid’s soulful vocals are paired with glistening synths met with lyrics reminiscent of a past relationship. These soulful vocals are paired with equally soulful lyrics that effectively tell the story of the track.

“It was cigarettes and parking lots, we never stop. It takes me back to playing music in empty bars. Afterwards we crash at yours and talk about. It’s us against the world.”

The glistening synths are accompanied by soft piano notes and a steady hum of bass. A barrage of drumbeats break through the walls of the track, inter spliced with melodic guitar riffs. The lyrics reminisce about “blue jeans, brown paper bags, and burnt CD’s.” The first drop kicks in, opening the gates to a melodic soundscape with subtle drum hits, shimmering bass, and the glistening synth loop from the intro. Continuing to remember the good times the song’s characters once had. The first drop concludes, leading into a verse with more prominent drum beats and guitar riffs. The lyrics in this verse convey longing and separation “I took your picture off of the wall. You grew up, moved out in the middle of fall… I guess we all have our different paths, didn’t hurt at all.” This track section leads to a quiet pre-drop that continues the longing themes: “So tell me about the things that you’ve seen, Through all of the years You’ve spent without me.” This passage shows that significant time has passed between meetings and enhances the narrative storytelling of the track. Whooshing sound elements and thick basslines lead into the next drop, which is split in half by an extra spicy guitar riff. With the track slowly fading out afterwards.

“No Tomorrow” with Brandyn Burnette is another melodic masterpiece with sharp lyrics and themes. This track starts out with gorgeous string effects and harmonic synths, strewn atop beautiful lyrics and production. “You and I. Feels like we are living in a dream and it finally came true. Every night, I wonder what my life will look like without you.” A quick drum fill brings us to the initial verse, accompanied by cymbal taps and an addictive loop. DnB style drum beats bring the chorus forward, leading into an extended pre-drop. “We were apart. Lost in the dark. I used to feel so hollow. But now we’re aligned, like stars in the sky. Wherever you go, I’ll follow. Just give me a sign. I’ll stay by your side. Make the most of this time we’ve borrowed. Close your eyes and hold on tight. Let’s live like there’s now tomorrow.” The instrumentals cascade in and out, like the tides of the sea. Escalating drums and gorgeous synths count down to the drop. An uptempo wonderland with splashy drums and a revving undercurrent of bass. These drums continue into the next verse, clapping along to the beat. Brandyn Burnette’s vocals add to the emotional nature of this one. The next verse continues the uptempo trend, continuing for the rest of the track. “No Tomorrow” capitalizes on melody and mixes it with a danceable upbeat tune that is PERFECT for club dance floors and massive festival crowds. A+.

The package transitions into its title track, “Divergence.” This cathartic record captivates with its melodic basslines and uplifting tempos, showcasing the eclectic soundscapes that Ross is renowned to offer. The samples in the intro are ethereal and atmospheric. Kicking things off on a high note. Ticking synths build up anticipation and expand into a GORGEOUS digital tapestry. This tapestry morphs back into ticking before rolling into itself. The track picks up speed, as the vocals echo in the background. Descending into a cerebral bridge accompanied by subtle claps and the ever-present synth. Heartbeat-like kicks add rhythm and depth to the remainder of the track. “Divergence” is short, sweet, and to the point. Capitalizing on every element and effectively blending them together.

The project culminates with “Last Time” with Linney, a house-driven, club-ready banger that’s set to leave a lasting mark on the dance music scene. Painting a gorgeous soundscape for the listener with no hesitation. Quickly expanding into a BANGER club track with upbeat and fast-moving hi-hats and claps, thumping bass. Linney’s vocals and delivery are on point here. A perfect companion to the deep and meaningful lyrics.

“I’m crossing all the lines I drew. Remind myself with these tattoos. I tried a new disguise, while closing both my eyes. It’s what I do. So I don’t have to face the truth. I can’t keep acting so dumb and happy. I tell myself, I used to love it. Now I’m sick of it. I need some help, oh.”

The track maintains a consistent house vibe into the first drop. With sweeping synths taking center stage. Quieting down in a unique production style that I have never heard before. How did they do this?! The lyrics document a recurring pattern in which the narrator is stuck and has hit “rock bottom.” But instead of getting discouraged, they embrace this low point in their life. Taking it as a sign of their strength instead of their weakness. A deep message that is sure to resonate with the listener. Having “nothing to lose” has given them a fresh outlook on life. The upbeat nature of the track reflects this new positive outlook. A perfect way to close such an incredible EP.

Jason Ross shares:

“This project is a continuation of my previous EP, ‘Convergence,’ and is a journey through a spectrum of genres—from hardstyle and trance to melodic dubstep and more. ‘Divergence’ represents my exploration outside of my comfort zone, drawing inspiration from new styles while staying true to my sonic and artistic identity. It’s also a reflection of personal growth—embracing new people, places, and experiences that help shape who you are, yet staying true to yourself.”

Connect with Jason Ross: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify | SoundCloud