Album Review: ZASKA, It Takes A Village

The product of a crowdfunding campaign that raised more than €14,500 (and had the platform’s highest number of individual donors that year), It Takes A Village was cooked up by musical “head chef” Max Zaska, and boasts a smorgasbord of sounds. Aided and abetted by famous friends including members of BARQ, Loah, Wyvern Lingo and many more, the Wicklow-bred sonic architect has assembled a one-of-a-kind creation.

Adopting a magpie-like approach, Zaska plunders the worlds of neo-soul, funk, hip-hop, rock and jazz, making for an enjoyably idiosyncratic listen. The Louise Gaffney-led ‘It’s Ridiculous’ feels like a hit in the making, with the honeyed vocals, smooth brass and sharp lyrics proving an irresistible combo.

Elsewhere, ‘My Body’ (featuring BARQ) is electrifying, calling to mind Living Colour in their prime; ‘Swan’ has a guitar solo that Dave Gilmour would sell his inflatable pig for; and ‘Wear’ boasts typically lush harmonies from Wyvern Lingo. If you’re searching for a sonic tonic during these chilly times, check this out.

Out now.