Tracks:
1. Plastic
2. Resolution
3. Nibiru
4. Buchia Rise
5. Golden

Any forward-facing pop group should consider themselves blessed if they achieve even half of the genius of Zia. Blending smooth vocal delivery and masterfully executed microtonal melodies, Zia casts off the chains of western musical traditions and creates a wholly unique aural experience. This disc is only a sample of what is on their latest release, but it is more than enough to assert Zia's place as the underground goddesses (and 1 god) of electronic pop. Adding to the appeal of this disc is the lyrical content, the songs play out as a quirky blend of science fiction and a little dash of interesting social commentary. This is part of Zia's overall appeal. To the best of this critic's knowledge, science and science fiction have never really been accepted foundations for a musical endeavor. Clearly Zia has thrown that ideology to the wind and have set out to make some of the most original music ever devised. Even on this sampler, thematic continuity is strongly evident and the songs hold up well, both as individual pieces and as a group. The music is incredibly diverse yet it retains a signature sound that is easily recognized. This sound is due in large part to Zia's near exclusive use of microtonal instruments in the synthesis of their music. While many forays into the realm of microtonal music have been dismissed as experiment or highly non-musical, Zia has embraced this technique and successfully melds it with pop styling. Be it Liz's amazing vocals or the fantastically creative music itself, Zia is the future of pop music. Head to their website to learn more about this talented trio. While you're there, please order one of their CD's, it will be money extremely well spent.

Find Zia here