Zhu’s Dreamland 2021: A Pandemic Road Trip Turned Masterpiece
Electronic music artist ZHU, known for his innovative soundscapes and captivating live performances, took an unconventional path to create his new album, Dreamland 2021. Instead of a traditional studio setting, ZHU and his band embarked on a cross-country road trip during the early days of the pandemic, recording in various remote locations.
The isolation and the raw beauty of these diverse environments deeply influenced the album’s overall composition and mood. This unique creation process shines through in the album’s epic and evocative nature.
Musical Influences and Evolution
ZHU’s music has always been characterized by its elemental feel. His tracks often evoke the power of metal, fire, and ice, building intensity before settling into a more subdued groove. This compelling combination has solidified ZHU’s position as a leading artist since his 2014 breakout hit, “Faded.”
Dreamland 2021, his third studio album and first in over a year, showcases a unique blend of sounds and collaborations. Released on Astralwerks, the album features artists such as Channel Tres and Tinashe.
The Making of Dreamland 2021
Much of the album was written and recorded during the pandemic, giving ZHU ample time to refine his dual-hard and sinewy productions. This period of isolation fostered a search for inspiration in unexpected places.
The album expands on his signature style; sleek, heavy, and often intense late-night vibes, blending house and techno with funk, hip-hop, and the unique textures of spatial guitar jams. ZHU’s distinctive, eerie falsetto ties all these elements together.
While a significant part of the album was created in Los Angeles, ZHU’s inspiration came from beyond his hometown. During the quarantine, he traveled to rural areas of Montana, Utah, and Colorado. These locations inspired several of the album’s dozen tracks, reflecting the unique character of these regions.
Upcoming Performances
ZHU will headline a six-night residency at Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheater in May (dubbed Dreamrocks), followed by festival appearances at Miami’s III Points and San Francisco’s Outside Lands in October.
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