Zedd's 'Telos' Album: Harmonizing Beats with Bach - Our Review and the Red Rocks Experience

Zedd's 'Telos': A Sonic Exploration in Emotion

Zedd's latest offering, ‘Telos’, marks Anton Zaslavski’s third studio album. Telos has been nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best Dance or Electronic Album as part of the 67th Annual Grammy Awards! Congratulations to Anton for this major accolade as it has been 9 years since his last LP.

This project exemplifies a significant evolution in his sound but also stands as a testament to his growth both as an artist and a person. One thing is for sure, in the not too distant future, we will see Anton produce a score for a major motion picture or a Broadway musical.

Here is why ‘Telos’ is an album you need to play; the Zedd Clock is ticking..can you hear it?

Zedd has always been known for his dance-pop prowess, but ‘Telos’ takes this to new heights. The album seamlessly weaves electronic dance music with classical influences, showcasing Zedd's formal music training. This fusion is evident in tracks like "1685," where elements reminiscent of Bach's works are integrated with modern electronic beats, creating a timeless yet contemporary sound. On Zedd’s first Instagram Live promoting the Telos Album, as he signed the first ~294 Album covers, he shared that Johan Sebastian Bach is his favorite classical composer and his belief that Bach is the all-time best.

Bach and Anton’s Inspiration from Fellow Titans

There's a mathematical precision to Bach's music, aligning with the idea that music can be mathematically perfect. This aspect might appeal to Zedd, given that electronic music production often involves precise timing and beats; let alone that Anton’s sound design and surgical use of percussion and silence are as sharp as a ginsu knife. But also worth noting here, that his “best friend in the whole World” (as Anton proclaimed during his 2023 EDC Las Vegas set when he welcomed Martin to the stage to play their hit track ‘Follow’) Mr. Martin Garrix is without question the artist who he respects the most in electronic music and is truly inspired by. I think that two other artists that are in this orbit of modern day genius composers are Kygo and Armin Van Buuren.

Speaking of composers, do you remember Zedd’s Live symphony performance at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles on October 9, 2022 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his album ‘Clarity’? He played the entire album live with a 50-piece orchestra. I remember because that same night I had tickets for Rufus Du Sol’s tour of their ‘Surrender’ album at The Hollywood Bowl just up the street. Wow that was really tough to miss but at least I was in the PIT and 3 feet from the rail for Rufus which is in My Top 10 Concerts of All-Time. (I’ve seen The Rolling Stones 8 times for some context).  

The Album’s Collaborative Genius

The album features an eclectic mix of collaborations, from pop to rock legends, which adds depth and variety. Working with artists like John Mayer on "Automatic Yes" to the inclusion of Muse on the closing track "1685" gives the album a dramatic and epic conclusion. The reimagining of Jeff Buckley's "Dream Brother" is particularly poignant, blending Buckley's ethereal vocals with Zedd's signature style - my favorite track on the Album. It is a work of art and its performance Live is honestly beyond description as he then follows the mix into Descensus matching the fluidity from the Album. I thought my phone was recording this at Red Rocks but due to my excitement I did not squarely push the button - I was devastated but I told myself that when Telos resumes sometime in 2025 that I will travel to see it again.

For context, I saw 21 Red Rocks concerts in 2024 and as I predicted,  Zedd’s performance and production was indeed the best and, yes, I was at Cyclops Rocks and many dubstep bass shows, whereby, checking that “box” for all the wooks out there. No one sees more of a diverse set of music at Red Rocks or in general for that matter than me. I will be writing a short review and rundown of these Red Rocks concerts upon the upcoming conclusion of the 2024 Red Rocks Season.

A Reflection on Artistry, an Emotional Journey

Telos isn't just an album; it's an emotional narrative. Each track seems to tell a part of Zedd's story, from the introspective beginnings with "Out of Time" to the reflective and expansive "Sona." The emotional depth, combined with Zedd's love for harmonies makes for a listening experience that's both personal and universally relatable. However, Anton made this Album for him - not for his fans or Interscope Records.

Anton himself has stated that Telos represents his autobiography, encapsulating his life's journey through music. This album challenges the listener to expect the unexpected, as Zedd explores themes of purpose, innovation, and connection. It's a bold step away from what might have been expected, proving that true artistry lies in creating what one wants, not what's anticipated. This was not a commercial record nor for mining a billion stream hit which he could easily have made and done, ie. he could have done a track with Olivia Rodrigo, Karol G, or Sabrina Carpenter had he saw fit to.

Production Excellence

After a nearly decade-long hiatus from album releases, Zedd's return is marked by an album that's polished to perfection. The production on Telos is crisp, with layers of sound that invite multiple listens to fully appreciate the intricacies. Hence why the Album is mixed and meant to be played in full from start to finish. This took years to produce albeit Zedd is a bit insane but herein lies the paradox of pursuing perfection, ie. the likes of which is a reference to Ludwig Van Beethoven. (Beethoven was known for his meticulous attention to detail in his compositions. He revised his works extensively, often to the point of frustration for his publishers who had to deal with the numerous changes.)

Tracks like ‘Shanti’ with its high-energy beats and chanting, or ‘Tangerine Rays’ with its enchanting vocals, are produced with such finesse that they feel both familiar and groundbreaking.

And Now, onto the Tracks:

Out of Time (featuring Bea Miller)

Bea Miller's vocals add a raw, emotional layer, making this track a perfect introduction to Zedd's personal journey as punctuated by his signature ticking clock. This track was developed out of Anton’s opening theme music that would play as a single layer for 2 minutes before the crescendo or build into Anton taking the stage albeit at a music festival, las vegas club show, or one of his own concerts.

This ticking clock goes back over 6 years now and only until this album did he acknowledge or speak to “the Zedd clock”. Frankly, it was only me for many many years that would reference it on his Instagram posts. Although Zedd does not have a Ravers Naturals scent named in his honor yet, perhaps he needs to soon after the magnificence and grandeur on display that he created for The Telos Concert Tour. \

Tangerine Rays (featuring Bea Miller)

Two tracks with Bea! With its catchy melodies and vibrant synths, this track feels like a throwback to Zedd's earlier EDM hits but with a matured sound. It's a testament to his ability to craft memorable melodies.

Shanti

The title "Shanti," which means peace in Sanskrit, sets the stage for a track that feels like a celebration. Featuring a mix of traditional Indian instruments and modern electronic beats, "Shanti" stands out with its high energy and chanting. It's an exploration of different cultures through music, showcasing Zedd's willingness to experiment. There's an intricate balance between the electronic elements and the organic sounds of the Indian chants, making it not just a dance track but a fusion of worlds.

No Gravity (featuring Bava)

Musical Style: Given Zedd's history with high-energy, uplifting electronic tracks, "No Gravity" likely follows suit with its dynamic beats, catchy melodies, and possibly a fusion of different musical influences. The title suggests a theme of escapism or liberation, common in electronic dance music, focusing on creating a sense of weightlessness or freedom through sound.

Sona (featuring the ollam)

"Sona" plays with time signatures and instrumentation, offering a complex yet engaging piece. It's noted for its infectious energy and Zedd's signature bass sound, making it a standout for fans of his older creative work.

Lucky (feat. Remi Wolf)

This collaboration with Remi Wolf brings an alt-pop vibe into the mix, with Wolf's distinctive vocals adding a fresh dynamic. The track is praised for its production but criticized for occasionally feeling too formulaic.

Dream Brother (Jeff Buckley cover)

Zedd's tribute to Jeff Buckley is both respectful and innovative, blending Buckley's haunting vocals with electronic elements. Our favorite track on the album hands down. This track comes towards the end of the Telos live performance by Zedd and continues with his mix inot Descensus; mirroring the album’s progression. Perhaps what is interesting about Dream Brother is the acknowledgement that Anton loves this original track whereby bringing some insight into who and what he admires and has been influenced by musically, ie. a reference back to his favorite classical composer being Bach.

Descensus (featuring Dora Jar) with featured producing artist, Mesto

Descenus translates roughly to "descent" in Latin, hence the lyric “if I’m going down, I’m going down to.” This track just screams Broadway musical all over it. As the title implies, "Descensus" might explore themes of descent, not necessarily in a physical sense but more metaphorically, like a journey into the self or through one's inner turmoil in our relationships.  

Musically, you can hear the signature filtered sound design from Mesto - a hallmark the same recurring sounds you can also hear in their track with Martin Garrix called Limitless on the Sentio Album and ironically the 2nd track on the album after Martin’s track Follow with Zedd.

Martin Garrix is Anton’s best friend in the whole world according to how he introduced Martin to the stage during Anton’s 2023 EDC Las Vegas performance/Set. I had a great moment at the rail with Zedd during that moment of silence before the humming starts on his track, Stay.

Actually, regarding the use of silence, Zedd is truly one of the all-time greats here (go listen to Stay), and it is a Masterclass for producers on how to use beats of silence to create tension. Zedd like Garrix are master painters of their use of silence.

"Descensus" might serve as a pivotal moment in the album's narrative, perhaps acting as a bridge between more outwardly energetic tracks and the reflective or climactic ones that follow, like "1685."

Automatic Yes (feat. John Mayer)

This track was quite unexpected. Are they friends? How did this come about? I would love to know the origin story on this track. The track combines Mayer's guitar mastery with Zedd's soulful beats and usage of reverb and layered filters during the verses; definitely a whimsical tune and great usage of those snare drum fills. Really enjoy John’s solo during the breakdown. But perhaps the most forgettable track on the Album unless you are big John Mayer fan girl from Y2K.

1685 (feat. Muse)

Ok first off, was never overly impressed with Muse so it being the last track on the Album was fine with me since it’s 6 minutes. The Muse sound is no doubt on full display - some things I guess do not change. The track is named after Bach's birth year, this track concludes the album like we said with a dramatic flair - hence the extra long intro. The track would be great for a cheesy slow motion scene during the climax of an action movie like Mission Impossible; for record though we love Tom Cruise. I feel like I’m now writing in the style of a Sullivan King set intro; if you know - you know. Ok wait, also for the record, Sullivan King’s set openings are the best in all of EDM and I am not even a dubstep agnostic headbanger. I just listen to every genre of EDM which makes me the coolest and the literal wikipedia of EDM. Yes, I also dabble in Ableton myself so I know what I’m talking about.

Lest I digress and stroke my bizarre EDM ego, yes I have self-awareness - imagine that. How many people are actually going to read this to the very end? Few. What’s up Anton! I know you did! I need to get an interview with you in 2025 during your next leg of the Telos Tour, please? See ya on X. :D

Wrapping Up the Review of Telos

"Telos" is a bold, beautiful, and brave album from Zedd. It's an album that doesn't just aim to entertain but seeks to connect on a deeper level with its listeners. For anyone who appreciates electronic music with a soul, a story, and superb craftsmanship, "Telos" is an essential listen. Zedd has not only redefined his sound but has also set a new benchmark for what an electronic album can be in terms of emotional depth and genre fusion. Here's to hoping it's not another nine years before we get another masterpiece like this from him.

If you love Zedd, and made it to the end then you deserve a reward. Use “TELOS” at checkout to save some money. Remember, all orders are always entered to win in our ongoing rolling festival giveaway for free tickets. Just go check out our Past Winners page, we’ve sent 15 ravers to festivals for free in the last 2 years. Last, all orders receive a free inhaler that we think you should also try from the Collection of 10.