Zel? Is an up-and-coming artist who’s not afraid to wear his influences on his sleeve. Citing icons like Prince, Frank Ocean, and Pharrell as inspirations, The Maryland-based artist has recently unveiled his third album, 'Musik For A Prima Donna', a testament to the musical legacy that he’s starting to build.
Working with executive producer Mack Coleman, Zel? has crafted a multi-genre experience, moving fluidly between, pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Cultivated to be a "streamline nuance of recent experiences that have been going on in my life," the album is a party translated into music, delivering good vibes, triumphant moments, and upbeat sounds from start to finish.
The album kicks off with the innovative pop hybrid 'Last Night', a track that intricately layers R&B beats and lingering electronic textures beneath a melodic vocal performance. Zel? wastes no time in switching things up, as the follow-up, 'Fantastic', sees him dive into a more visceral rap delivery that cuts through the instrumentals. The energy continues to build on the vibrant 'I'm Too Pretty', a dance-infused track with an undeniable groove.
While the album’s strength lies in its genre-hopping aesthetics, there are a few standout tracks that truly shine. 'Let Me Know' and '2 Cups' are highlights, fusing rhythmic sensibilities with Zel?’s lyrical dexterity and creative flourishes. 'Trip of Love' stands tall with its rolling basslines and an edgy, tempered beat that gives it a distinct character. The album winds down with the nostalgic 'Matching Hearts', which blends a vintage feel with Zel?’s contemporary style, before the demo version of 'Make Up' offers a raw, intimate glimpse into his creative process. With soft, emotive vocals set against isolated guitar and atmospheric soundscapes, it's a fittingly unpolished conclusion to an album full of dynamic and polished tracks.
Zel?'s new album is a smooth and often intoxicating journey through a variety of sounds and moods. It’s a bold and confident statement from an artist who seems to have an innate ability to present different musical styles while maintaining a cohesive and consistent artistic identity. At its core, 'Musik For A Prima Donna' is more than just a collection of songs, but a new chapter in his career where everyone gets to enjoy and experience something now.
You can stream the full album above via Spotify, or on all your favourite streaming platforms. For more, be sure to join Zel? on Instagram today.
