Za!

Za! is an experimental music project from Barcelona. The group consists of two core members, PAPA DUPAU and SPAZZFRICA EHD, who between them play guitar, trumpet, kalimba, drums, percussion, keys, effects, clarinet and vocals. The act is also described as a travelling circus, and its work draws on a wide range of forms and styles, including African rhythms, noise, math rock, vocal loops, free jazz, analogue electronics, Tuva-inspired sounds, Balinese polyrhythms, Mauritanian trip hop, Dadaism, distortion, dance music and drones.

Style and recordings

Za! is associated with a hybrid approach sometimes described as post-world music, with danceable structures built from experimental and noisy textures. Their album Megaflow follows Macumba o Muerte and is presented as a risk-taking release with a bright, uplifting character. It is recorded by Santi García, mastered by Jeff Lipton, and co-edited by Acuarela, Gandula and the German label Discorporate on vinyl. The album artwork gives each song a miniature landscape map.

Performances and collaborations

Za! plays international festivals and art performances, and tours in the UK, US, Spain, Portugal and Germany. Festival appearances include Primavera Sound, Sonar, South by Southwest in Austin, Fusion Festival in Germany and Gwen Festival in Switzerland. The group also tours with noise acts such as Lightning Bolt, ZU and Yellow Swans, with alternative rock acts including El Guincho and Delorean, and with free-jazz musicians Peter Brötzmann and Paal Nilssen Love. Other events linked to Megaflow include an exhibition opening for Joan Miró and performances under the banner of “FLOW”.

Line-up

The act is credited as Ed Spafrika on drums, voice and keyboard, Pa padopau on guitar, trumpet, kalimba and voice, and Buggamaistah as a traveller around the world.