The Zolas

The Zolas

The Zolas are a Vancouver-based Canadian group active since 2009. Their core line-up centres on Zachary Gray, who handles vocals and guitar, and Tom Dobrzanski, who plays piano. The group also includes Dwight Abell and Zack Gray among its members, and it uses additional musicians on stage and in the studio.

Background

Before using the name The Zolas, Zach Gray and Tom Dobrzanski perform together as Lotus Child. They meet as choirboys in Grade 9, and their long-running partnership shapes the band’s writing and arrangement style. Gray tends to bring broad song ideas, while Dobrzanski focuses on detailed musical development.

Sound and style

The Zolas work in alternative rock, indie pop, indie rock and progressive rock, with a sound that also draws on piano rock. Their music combines intricate song structures with direct melodies. Their songs often move through sharp tonal changes, multiple sections and prominent piano parts, while staying rooted in pop form.

The band’s material on Tic Toc Tic shows this approach clearly. The album includes six-minute piano-led songs, power-pop, boogie-woogie passages, baroque and Bowie-like influences, and a closing track that moves into an experimental chant section. Gray cites influences ranging from Mew to the Kinks, and his lyrics often focus on everyday situations, relationships and vulnerability.

Recording and collaborators

Howard Redekopp produces Tic Toc Tic. The album also features support from other musicians, including drummer Ali Siadat and bassist Aidan Knight. Dobrzanski’s piano work is central to the group’s sound, and Gray’s vocals and guitar sit alongside it.

Context

The Zolas are part of a West Coast Canadian scene that includes bands such as Bend Sinister and Mother Mother. Their music is described as commercially accessible while still retaining complexity, with an emphasis on detailed arranging and strong melodic writing.