Hailing from Duesseldorf, Germany, Cris Cap is a musician and producer whose music bridges the gap between nostalgic soul and contemporary pop. Drawing deep inspiration from legendary acts like Steely Dan and Stevie Wonder, Cris crafts songs rich in melody, harmony, and heartfelt storytelling. A lifelong pianist with a special bond to his Fender Rhodes Mk1, his faithful musical companion since 1985, Cris weaves the warmth of 70s and 80s grooves with present-day emotion.
His sound is rooted in personal history, shaped by a family soundtrack of pop and soul, and refined through years of musical exploration. Known for his fusion of R&B, jazz, and pop, Cris Cap’s music captures themes of love, self-discovery, and memories that linger. With his full-length album on the horizon and a passion for collaborating with unique voices and musicians, Cris is steadily building a body of work that feels both timeless and fresh.
Released on April 25th, 2025, “Gone Too Soon” is Cris Cap’s latest EP, and perhaps his most emotionally stirring work to date. Consisting of three tracks, the project’s centerpiece is its title song, a poignant reflection on the pain of losing someone far too young. Inspired by the sudden passing of a close friend who had only just rekindled his relationship with music, the track carries a weight of raw sorrow but also a profound sense of light. “It’s about pain, but also about holding on to the light of those we’ve lost,” says Cris, and this sentiment echoes through every note and lyric. This EP features compelling tracks with amazing vocal performances. The EP feels personal, like a letter written in melody, resonating deeply with any and everyone.
Gone Too Soon EP Track List:
Gone Too Soon:
The opening track of Cris Cap’s ‘Gone Too Soon’ EP is a masterclass in emotional songwriting and soulful production. Born out of the sudden and devastating loss of a young friend, “Gone Too Soon” is a deeply introspective ballad that navigates the fragile terrain of grief, memory, and healing. From the very first notes, the track sets a haunting tone,. Anchored by a slow, swelling 6/8 rhythm and a melody that feels both intimate and grand. Cris Cap leans into the rich traditions of classic R&B and soul, using the warm, nostalgic timbre of his Fender Rhodes piano to ground the song in emotional authenticity.
At the heart of “Gone Too Soon” is Tyla Rae’s vocal performance, a soulful, powerful expression of sorrow and remembrance. Her delivery is raw yet refined, capturing the emotional weight of Cris Cap’s lyrics with a sincerity that is impossible to ignore. The understated instrumentation, including soft strings and layered harmonies, serves not to overwhelm but to cradle her voice in a space where vulnerability and strength coexist. The result is a track that feels deeply human. Every element of the production is meticulously crafted, yet the song breathes with a natural grace that speaks to Cris Cap’s instincts as a producer and storyteller.
What elevates “Gone Too Soon” beyond a simple tribute is the way it channels pain into something profound. Cris Cap’s ability to fuse melody, harmony, and emotion into a cohesive whole is on full display here, making this song not only the emotional centerpiece of the EP but also a powerful testament to the healing potential of music. As the final chords fade, “Gone Too Soon” leaves a lasting impression, a song that lingers in the heart, not just for its message, but for its soul.
Young Gun:
The second track on Cris Cap’s ‘Gone Too Soon’ EP, “Young Gun” offers a refreshing shift In tone from the somber introspection of the title track. Bursting with breezy charm and youthful spirit, the song captures the carefree essence of adolescent love and the exhilaration of self-discovery. From the first strum of the guitar and the subtle pulse of its rhythm, “Young Gun” sets a warm, laid-back groove that invites listeners into a soundscape filled with sunshine and nostalgia. Cris Cap blends classic soul textures with contemporary pop sensibilities, creating a rich and inviting musical backdrop that’s both familiar and new.
Front and center is Hudson Hayes, whose smooth, emotive vocals breathe life into the lyrics with effortless charisma. His performance exudes a sense of optimism and sincerity, perfectly aligned with the track’s uplifting message. The layers of gentle guitar and understated percussion offer a lush foundation without overpowering the vocal narrative, letting each element support the overall mood with finesse. There’s a breezy naturalness to the production, every note and beat is in the right place, yet nothing feels forced. The track’s rhythm flows with ease, its melody is instantly memorable, and its tone strikes that rare balance between joyful exuberance and musical sophistication.
“Young Gun” stands out as one of the most infectious and emotionally resonant tracks on the EP. It showcases Cris Cap’s versatility as a producer and his ability to craft songs that not only sound good but feel good. The track evokes that universal, golden-hour feeling of youth. It’s a reminder that amidst loss and longing, there’s still room for joy, connection, and the simple pleasures of a melody that makes you move. With “Young Gun,” Cris Cap and Hudson Hayes deliver a song that lingers in the ears and the heart alike.
Live Like My Cat:
“Live Like My Cat”, the closing track on Cris Cap’s ‘Gone Too Soon’ EP, brings the project to a satisfying and playful conclusion. Steeped in a laid-back, funky groove, the song opens with an infectious rhythm and breezy charm that immediately sets a lighthearted tone. It’s a refreshing contrast to the emotional weight of the previous tracks, inviting listeners to embrace a simpler, more carefree approach to life just like the title suggests.
The vocal performance Is smooth and relaxed, exuding charisma and ease. There’s a casual confidence in the delivery that perfectly matches the lyrics, bringing a touch of humor and relatability to the song’s philosophy of living in the moment. The instrumentation enhances this feeling beautifully, with a pulsing bassline, subtle percussion, and understated funk elements that add richness without ever overpowering the vibe. Cris Cap’s knack for blending musical textures shines here, as the melody dances effortlessly across the arrangement, creating a sonic atmosphere that feels like a sun-soaked afternoon spent in good company.
As a final track, “Live Like My Cat” offers both resolution and release. It wraps up the emotional arc of the EP with a reminder. The song’s playful energy and introspective undertone strike the perfect balance, leaving listeners not only humming the tune but also reflecting on its easygoing wisdom. In true Cris Cap fashion, the track is a showcase of skilled songwriting and thoughtful production, a light, groovy exhale that lingers long after the music fades.
Musically,” Gone Too Soon” is marked by its high production value, tasteful arrangements, and genre-blending finesse. Cris Cap shows a deep understanding of how to shape emotion into sound, using both classic influences and modern techniques to full effect. Each track is distinct, yet they form a cohesive story when played together, one of loss, memory, healing, and hope.
In a time when music often feels fleeting, “Gone Too Soon” stands out as a work of depth and sincerity. Cris Cap proves not only his talent as a songwriter and producer, but also his ability to translate complex emotions into universal art. It’s an EP that deserves to be heard, and felt. If you haven’t yet, hurry now and give “Gone Too Soon” a listen. It just might stay with you long after the final note fades.
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