As a growing voice in the soul/R&B scene and staunch advocate for LGBTQ rights, Michael Blume has enriched this year’s Pride Month with the release of his emotional new EP, “cynicism & sincerity.”  Here he uses a blend of rapping and singing to explore his mental state on topics ranging from personal romance to the community-wide struggle for acceptance.  CelebMix has praised the project’s versatility, describing it as “a fierce and strong set of tracks inspiring from mainstream pop but mixing in indie roots, some soul, R&B, hip-hop, and electronica.”  You can listen to the record below, as well as watch the music video for “Blunder.”

Blume has gotten involved with pride celebrations, headlining a pride kick-off show at New York’s Stonewall Inn, one of Chicago’s Artist’s Pride shows, and performing a set at Bonnaroo.  There are a few more chances for New York and LA fans to catch Blume this summer with shows at Manhattan’s Bowery Ballroom (6/20), LA’s Peppermint Club (6/26), and at the Archway Under the Manhattan Bridge (7/19).  Find tickets and more event info off of the artist’s website.