With “Better to Sleep,” Tony Lio delivers one of his most intimate and emotionally honest releases to date. The single, taken from his latest EP collection Mirage Masquerade, marks a clear turning point in his artistic journey—one where restraint, vulnerability, and melody take center stage.
Stripped down to its bare essentials, “Better to Sleep” relies less on driving hooks and more on atmosphere and feeling. The song’s minimalist approach allows its core theme to resonate clearly: the quiet temptation of escaping into fantasy when reality feels overwhelming. Rather than presenting this idea as a flaw, Lio treats it with empathy, acknowledging that temporary escape can sometimes be a form of survival. Vocally, Lio sounds grounded and sincere, delivering the melody with subtle control rather than theatrical excess. The addition of Mackie June’s harmonies adds emotional depth and contrast, wrapping gently around the lead vocal and enhancing the song’s dreamlike quality. Her presence elevates the track without overshadowing its intimacy, reinforcing the feeling of shared reflection rather than solo confession.
Production-wise, the collaboration with longtime creative partner Christopher Kapshock feels purposeful. The sound is clean, spacious, and uncluttered, allowing silence and simplicity to play an active role in the listening experience. Every element feels intentional, reinforcing the song’s emotional clarity rather than distracting from it. “Better to Sleep” may be understated, but that is precisely where its strength lies. It showcases Tony Lio’s growth as a songwriter willing to step outside his comfort zone and trust subtlety over spectacle. As part of Mirage Masquerade, the track stands as a quiet highlight—proof that vulnerability, when handled with care, can be just as powerful as the loudest chorus.
Facebook, spotify, Youtube, Instagram, Bandcamp, website
English