The unexpected but powerful collaboration between R&B star Dawn Richard and experimental composer Spencer Zahn is back with new music. After their critically acclaimed 2022 album Pigments, the duo is now preparing to release their follow-up project, Quiet In A World Full Of Noise. This new album promises to continue their exploration of blending genres and pushing musical boundaries.
Dawn Richard and Spencer Zahn may come from different musical worlds, but their collaboration has proven to be a winning combination. Richard, known for her bold and adventurous approach to R&B, and Zahn, celebrated for his experimental compositions, first teamed up for Pigments. The album was praised for its innovative soundscapes and emotional depth, establishing the duo as a unique force in contemporary music.
Their new album, Quiet In A World Full Of Noise, builds on that foundation, offering a collection of tracks that are both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. The album’s title suggests a theme of finding peace and introspection amidst the chaos of modern life, a concept that resonates deeply with the current cultural moment.
The first single from the album, “Breath Out,” has already given fans a taste of what to expect. The track showcases the duo’s signature blend of minimalist instrumentation and rich, layered vocals, creating a meditative and immersive listening experience.
Their latest single, “Traditions,” continues in this vein but with a more stripped-down approach. The song is relatively short and straightforward compared to some of their previous work, but it’s no less impactful. The music is simple yet elegant, featuring just a piano and an acoustic bass, both played with a lot of sustain, allowing the notes to linger and resonate. Over this delicate arrangement, Richard delivers a soft, conversational vocal performance, singing about the themes of family and tradition.
In a press release, Spencer Zahn shared his thoughts on the track: “Dawn’s intimate vocal style on this brings me into her world while also making me think of my own life and family. I wanted to frame that feeling in the composition.” This sentiment is palpable in the music, which feels both personal and universal, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences and relationships.
To support the release of Quiet In A World Full Of Noise, Richard and Zahn have announced a brief run of tour dates. These performances promise to be intimate and immersive, much like the music itself, offering fans a chance to experience the duo’s unique sound in a live setting.
Quiet In A World Full Of Noise is shaping up to be another compelling chapter in the collaboration between Dawn Richard and Spencer Zahn. Their ability to blend genres and create music that is both innovative and emotionally rich sets them apart in today’s musical landscape. As they prepare to release this new album, the anticipation is building for what promises to be another standout project from these two exceptional artists. Fans of their previous work, as well as newcomers to their music, will find much to appreciate in the thoughtful, beautifully crafted songs that Richard and Zahn continue to create.
TOUR DATES:
10/22 – Minneapolis, MN @ Dakota
10/23 – Milwaukee, WI @ Turner Hall Ballroom
10/24 – Chicago, IL @ Old Town School of Folk Music
10/26 – Pittsburgh, PA @ The Andy Warhol Museum
10/27 – Toronto, ON @ Lula Lounge
10/29-30 – Brooklyn, NY @ National Sawdust
11/02 – Philadelphia, PA @ First Unitarian Church
11/03 – Boston, MA @ Institute of Contemporary Art
11/16 – London, UK @ London Jazz Festival
English