Bio

The Co$t of Life  is a synth-pop and retrowave solo project, orchestrated by Colorado songwriter and musician, Jason Irving. For Jason, music serves as both an adventure and a sanctuary, drawing inspiration from a myriad of influences ranging from the nostalgic pop tunes of the 80s to the rich melodies synonymous with Mutemath and The Midnight, the ambient beats of electronica, and the cinematic scores crafted by composers like Thomas Newman.

Raised in Morrison, Colorado, Jason's early years were marked by a love for sports, but music emerged as his true passion. The rock sounds of Green Day, Offspring, Metallica, and 90's techno provided the soundtrack to his formative years, compelling him to pick up the guitar after witnessing a heavy metal band perform at his high school talent show.

After taking some guitar lessons at a small music store in Littleton, CO, Jason embarked on a musical journey that led to the formation of the pop-punk band Suburbia's Finest during his junior year. Winning the high school talent show and organizing successful concerts propelled the band into the local spotlight, sharing stages with national acts like Alkaline Trio, Fenix TX, Good Riddance, Homegrown, Diesel Boy, Five Iron Frenzy, SNFU,  and many others.

Following creative differences with the band, Jason's musical ambitions were put on hold as he pursued higher education, delving into Psychology and Political Science before enlisting in the U.S. Army as a Mental Health Specialist. His journey continued with a stint in Germany, where a newfound love for travel blossomed, eventually leading him to Tokyo after his release, where he taught English.

Upon his return to the U.S., Jason began a career in finance, met his wife Allison, and began building a family. Although Jason's musical ambitions had taken a pause, they had never left.

In 2022, the allure of creativity rekindled as he explored new technologies that allowed him to traverse new musical styles, resulting in his new project, The Co$t of Life.