Zeds Dead exemplify their innovative artistry across the 14 tracks of their long-awaited album, Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness.
The Canadian duo Zeds Dead stand out in the electronic music scene. Known for their early work in dubstep, they have since explored genres ranging from drum and bass to house, establishing themselves as versatile producers. Over the years, Zeds Dead have released significant albums, captivated festival audiences, and expanded their label, Deadbeats. Their latest project, Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness, marks a renewed focus on their creative production.
True to their distinct style, Zeds Dead continue to push boundaries with this album. Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness is not merely a compilation of previous hits; it is an evolving narrative that reflects the duo’s artistic vision, eclectic influences, and a commitment to sampling—refreshingly unique in today’s turbulent musical landscape.
In creating “Return To The Spectrum Of Intergalactic Happiness”, we embraced the essence of Zeds Dead. We threw every idea at the wall to see what resonated. Our primary inspiration was to prioritize our own taste in the creative process, resulting in art for art’s sake, something we both wholeheartedly support.
Zeds Dead
This nostalgic journey commences with “Light.” The track opens with a vintage TV turning on, accompanied by a sample from The Neverending Story, leading into a stuttering beat. Layered spoken word samples related to light and darkness weave through the hypnotic background, creating an immersive experience. Three minutes in, a new breakbeat injects energy into the track before it fades away as the TV turns off.
“Light” sets the stage for the album’s mesmerizing tracks. “Hold My Hand” features a slow, deliberate rhythm, with bass warbles and ethereal vocal samples that ebb and flow throughout the soundscape. A sample invites listeners to gaze at the stars before the track plunges back into gritty chaos.
Quick transitions characterize the beginning of “Fall Away.” Close your eyes and imagine flicking through channels late at night until the main vocals emerge. The chopped beat enhances the clarity of the vocals, delivering an otherworldly experience as the minutes pass. This seamlessly leads into “Angel,” where rave-ready synths and pitched vocals create an exhilarating atmosphere, propelling you into pure pandemonium. It’s deep, raw, and unlike anything expected from Zeds Dead—an exhilarating delight.
“Transmission 3406-12” offers a brief interlude before a series of tracks that highlight Zeds Dead’s diverse production style.
“Heartbeat” features an infectious pop-infused beat paired with Minke’s stunning vocals, perfect for the dancefloor. “One Of These Mornings” sees Zeds Dead returning to their dubstep roots, building power with impactful drops throughout.
“Can’t Make It” slows things down, offering a jazzy vibe highlighted by prominent percussion and horns, while “A Million Dreams” delivers a captivating liquid drum and bass experience that leaves listeners breathless.
A memorable film sample from Scarface opens “Bad Guy,” launching into a warped electro journey marked by fantastic vocal stabs and oscillating sounds. Zeds Dead then shifts gears with “Vertigo,” a smoother ride featuring contributions from singer-songwriter Naomi Wild, whose influence adds warmth and depth to the track.
“Transmission 11623-55-2” serves as the final transmission, closing out Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness with the duo’s hit “Sweet Memories,” a nod to their classic dubstep style.
The album concludes with “RSIH,” where waves of sound wash over you, accompanied by a droning beat. The samples blend perfectly as a closing track, featuring guitar chords reminiscent of Blink-182’s “Adam’s Song,” combined with pitched vocals and an electronic drumbeat, merging rock and electronic elements. As the TV clicks off, the journey ends, leaving you with a nostalgic sensation akin to the static of an analog broadcast.
Stream Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness on Spotify or your preferred platform, and stay updated with Zeds Dead through their social media channels for future releases.
Listen to Zeds Dead – Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness on Spotify:
Zeds Dead – Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness – Tracklist:
- Light
- Hold My Hand
- Fall Away
- Angel
- Transmission 3406-12
- Heartbeat (with Minke)
- One of These Mornings
- Can’t Make It
- A Million Dreams
- Bad Guy
- Vertigo
- Transmission 11623-55-2
- Sweet Memories
- RSIH
