Review: Zedd – Spectrum EP Out Now on Interscope Records

We’ve touched on the original Spectrum, raved about the Armin version that his heavy godlike hand had blessed with a touch of trance. We also reviewed Human, an additional original tune produced with Nicky Romero. All solid electro and progressive music. But at nearly 53 minutes in length, Zedd’s Spectrum EP gets way more interesting and here’s the synopsis.

Armin van Buuren Remix

Matthew Koma’s vocals still transcend beautifully as he pours with emotion, “I will never let you go!” Only this time, those vocals are layered over uplifting trance melodies and melodic electro synths.

A-Trak & Clockwork Remix

A-Trak & Clockwork get filthy, layering in some really driving bass, funky synths and cut up vocals that keep this tune fresh.

Arty Remix

Anjunabeats child Arty absolutely slaughters his interpretation, lending his Russian gifts and incorporating a more uplifting spin on the tune.

Deniz Koyu Remix

Musical prodigy and EDM rookie Deniz Koyu keeps things simple yet effective with a cool, melodic and progressive execution.

Congorock Remix

Ultra Music’s Congorock follows in the vein of his liking and integrates some hard house to the already dirty original.

Monsta Remix

Monsta gets weird, twisting the song, throwing some dub in the mix and tweaking the vocals to a much higher pitch. A very curious jam, if you like the wub and dub.

Gregori Klosman & Tristan Garner Remix

Gregori Klosman & Tristan Garner produce my favorite mix on the EP, next to Armin’s untouchable magic of course. It’s one of the shorter arrangements but packs much flavor. There are many elements to this reproduction, one most prominent being that it’s an instrumental, having a very epic and fantastical feel to it. I really love.

Unknown to most, Zedd is a classically trained German musician. These roots are noticeable even to the untaught musical ear. His use of syncopation and rhythmic beats stand out against most producers. There is a heavy influence from his percussive abilities (yes, he used to pound on the skins for metal band Dioramic). And finally, his music fundamental talents are illustrated on the acoustic version of the title track, where Zedd himself lays down both the piano and vocals, creating a unique and beautiful ballad-like rendition of Spectrum, closing out the extensive EP.

Zedd has proved himself time and time again as one of the more promising producers and DJs in EDM. I just can’t wait for the full-length album.

If you’re interested in witnessing this musical intellect wail on some drums, check the video below. It’s really quite fun.

Buy the Spectrum EP now on Beatport

Article by: Michael Arnold