Brand new album from erik ziomko

Based in Montreal, Canada, erik ziomko in an alternative pop artist who previously operated under the moniker noo-bap. Making his own highly original sound, he crafts experimental pop beats to deliver grooving musical moments unlike any other.

First stepping out under the erik ziomko name in August, he dropped his debut single “fine and dandy” which he’s since followed up with a string of tracks and his first album chez rico / avr. Bringing us his latest release, he shares his brand new sophomore record titled spectre, a seven track outing that provides the perfect snapshot of his truly unique sonic output.

Kicked off by “renaissance shores,” the soft shimmer of hushed synth tones gradually builds with the filtered patter of the beat as the arrangement slips into an infectious groove full of pulsing energy and snapping percussion. Peppered with bright synth flourishes, the shifting soundscape flows through a mesmeric scene to craft a hazy slice of downtempo instrumental electronica.

“bovidae type bleat” follows with an immediate thump of rhythm, injecting an experimental hip hop vibe capped by gentle vocalisations. With slick ebb and flow, the drums dip and swell to craft an engaging sense of movement on this mellow beat-driven jam. With “apparition,” silky synth textures weave together to form a smokey sonic fabric, met with the crisp rattle of the beat as pitched vocal elements add subtle melodic elements above.

On “infralude,” the lo-fi touch of airy synth tones and warbling vocal samples combine to deliver a minimalist interlude on the album before “respect” fades in a bouncy groove of stomping beats and an intricate array of layered synths. Title track “spectre” then arrives with a contrast between bubbling synths and dreamy instrumental atmosphere before erik’s subdued vocal elements glide in to hover above the sweeping arrangement. Jumping with a funk-infused groove, pulsing basslines and dashes of colourful synth flutters collide to forge a stellar avant-garde piece packed full of twists and turns.

Closing the record with “ppopcoopcopout (slowed + dry aged),” the bold groove and crunchy beat gives way to a moment of stripped back, hypnotic aesthetic before the strike of drums brings the fierce energy back in to offer a memorable finale to the release. From start to finish, on spectre, erik ziomko serves up a spectacular showcase of his creative flair and production panache, delivering a playful and thoroughly enjoyable experience. Closing his breakout year on a high note, we can’t wait to see what this exciting producer has in store for 2025 and beyond.

Listen to spectre below