Los Angeles-based hyperpop producer and artist DANGER SPOON has released their electrifying new single, “icu <3“—a track that blurs the line between passion and peril. Equal parts unhinged and tongue-in-cheek, the song transforms obsessive love into a full-blown medical emergency, pulsing with chaotic energy and glitchy hyperpop production.
Fusing warped R&B grooves, industrial percussion, and the blown-out intensity of metalcore production, “icu <3” is a sonic rollercoaster. From its breathy, restrained verses to the explosive chorus—where emergency sirens wail and saw synths collide—the track captures the exhilarating rush of desire spiraling out of control.
While producing largely in isolation, an early demo of “icu <3” caught the ear of multi-platinum producer Jimmy Duval (XXXTentacion, Ski Mask the Slump God, Bryce Vine). His reaction—”That’s insane. You’re a beast.”—became a defining moment for DANGER SPOON.
What can you share with readers about your new project?
DANGER SPOON and the world of SPOON PHARMACEUTICALS is my way of personifying everything I’ve been through—poverty, loss, chronic illness, lupus, and the medical system. It’s essentially my life in a nutshell: chaotic, aggressive, thoroughly ill (haha), and constantly fighting to hold onto hope. At the same time, it’s cute, fun, tongue-in-cheek, satirical, and just a little cringey!
How does this release compare with your other projects?
This is the first time I’m putting myself out there as an artist, not just a writer/producer. I’ve worked a lot behind the scenes on projects for others, but DANGER SPOON is my story, my production, my voice, and my world. It’s cathartic, not just for me, but hopefully for anyone who resonates with it.
What about this single makes you most proud?
What I’m most proud of is the impact the song has had on the people who’ve heard it. This is my first release, and I wasn’t prepared for people to connect with it in such a meaningful way. From fans reciting lyrics back to me, sending voice notes singing “icu <3,” to being blown away by the production—it’s so validating. It means the world to see that my time and creativity were acknowledged, especially so early on. I’m so proud of what we’ve done so far and beyond grateful for my supporters.
Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?
“Icu <3” is just the beginning of a collection of songs meant to remind people that, despite everything—ADHD, anxiety, lupus, loss—no one is truly alone. We’re allowed to dream, feel, love, and complain! The song plays with the feeling of romantic obsession, to the point where it almost feels like a medical emergency. When a crush takes over, it’s that all-consuming, intense feeling that you can’t help but want to get your hands (or boots) on that person!
What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?
DANGER SPOON was born as a cathartic and relatable personification of life with illness. By turning pain, struggle, and loss into a community of cute commiseration (haha!), I hope that even one person going through it feels seen. If DANGER SPOON can make someone feel understood, then that means more to me than anything else.
If you could collaborate with anyone—dead or alive, famous or unknown—who would it be and why?
Right now, I’d love to collaborate with artists who have amazing live show presence and engaged audiences. Artists like Poppy, Bring Me the Horizon, 100 gecs, and PUP inspire me with their interactive shows and passionate fanbases. I dream of merging metal/punk with hyperpop and collaborating with some of these incredible artists.
What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?
I’d have to say I’d still love to collaborate with artists who create exciting live experiences, like Poppy and Bring Me the Horizon. As for all-time favorites, it’s a mix of heavy artists and hyperpop sounds that keep me inspired and motivated!
Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
You can stay connected by following DANGER SPOON on Spotify and Apple Music for upcoming releases, and don’t be a stranger on Instagram @danger.spoon. I love making new friends!
I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off?
If you’re struggling, know that we’re here for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me on Instagram if you need a friend. I’ve been there, and I probably am there right now. You’re not alone.
Also, DANGER SPOON and SPOON PHARMACEUTICALS are so much more than just me. I’m beyond grateful to all my collaborators on this project, including Dajaun Martineau (mixing, mastering, co-producer, co-writer), Dan Hand (manager), Corey Blount (co-writer, co-producer), Laureli O (co-writer), Alexis Lynn (co-writer), Jaren Rosen (narrative foundation), and everyone who contributed to the live show’s pharmaceutical ads.
As we say at SPOON PHARMACEUTICALS: “By participating today, you are saving lives” (mine!). Thank you!
