Most of the time I’m covering underground music it tends to be hard rock/heavy metal oriented, and if I’m listening to other genres it tends to be bigger artists within each style. However within the past two years, an underground artist of a different kind has made their way to my speakers. Ever since my partner discovered Zand, their singles “Boys Like U” and “Luci” as well as the Xeraclius EP have been on regular rotation. Fast forward to the present and Zand’s new EP Ugly Pop has taken over and made for some awesome listening in recent times. It’s exciting to review a killer underground artist that’s truly different - let’s get into it!
The EP opens with “Bald Bitch” and straight off the bat Zand isn’t holding back with their straight-to-the point lyricism. They’re not your typical Barbie-doll pretty popstar and regardless of what anyone else thinks, they’re a hot bitch who’s not afraid to speak their mind and do things their own way. The song is the most upbeat on the record with its mid-paced dark hip-hop groove and hair clipper sounds making for a straightforward and strong introduction.
Latest single “Inappropriate” follows, bringing a lot more complexity. There’s a wide variety of sounds from the haunting piano intro to the pounding bass, eerie synths and heavy guitars. Zand also brings a lot of different layered vocal styles with highs, lows, harmonies and rapping, with creative use of pitch shifting and distorted effects. Lyrically the song perfectly follows its predecessor, hitting back at music executives rejecting artists that don’t fit the narrow aesthetic and sonic mould of what they think will sell. There’s a lot going on in “Inappropriate” yet it all blends well as the song builds in attitude.
Penultimate track “Slut Money” is more downtempo with a swinging beat and more sparse soundscapes. The bass and percussive sounds are more pointed with harsher stabbing synths in the later choruses giving a more atmospheric feel. Layered vocal effects are used in more cool ways adding to the dark and sleazy vibe, complementing the lyrics.“Why you complaining when it’s not your body? Fuck you, pay me” - Zand delivers another no-bullshit message, standing up to those that criticise people want to support themselves with sex work.
Ugly Pop closes with “Freak”, a final standout statement describing Zand’s experience with their non-binary identity. Given the lack of non-binary and non-cisgender identity representation in the media, it’s awesome to have a cool artist stand up for those identities. The song should become an anthem with its heavy beat and hard synth stabs emphasised by the more stripped back pre-choruses and catchy vocal melodies.
Zand has created a cool, fresh sound with Ugly Pop that’s a broad amalgamation of genres. The blend of elements from pop, rap, industrial, electronic and metal makes for a fun and interesting style. Coupled with the fierce attitude and in-your-face lyrics, (as well as the striking green and black aesthetic) Zand stands out from the crowd with the unique Ugly Pop sound. The EP is a solid four tracks that’s sure to elevate them to new heights.
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