David Zee began releasing music as Zanilonia back in 2015 after playing in groups and as a solo artist for years between Baltimore and New York. He had the vision to create a virtual ensemble, which, using 21st-century technology, would pull together talent and create music remotely. Recently we looked at Zanilonia’s recreation of the Joni Mitchell deep-cut, The Jungle Line. This time we will be having a listen to an original number, a single called Squirrel World.
This track is guaranteed to make you smile. It starts off as an innocent illustration of squirrel utopia. Child-like melodies provide the backdrop to the imagery of cute, furry, creatures going about their busy lives with an air of blissful benevolence. You’d be forgiven for wanting to bathe in these soft, joyful acoustic vibrations forever – alas!
Within thirty seconds, the serenity of the track has imploded, and a raucous, distorted guitar riff takes over the proceedings. Zanilonia collaborator Cara Detwiller takes the mic and unleashes a seething, rap-punk discourse on the savagery of these beings – painting them as creatures hell-bent on inflicting chaos and destruction on human tranquility and the sanctity of the suburban abode. Before you know it, the track has returned to squirrel utopia, and this duality; the chopping and changing between melody and angst becomes the cornerstone of the song.
It’s an extremely clever piece of songwriting that was inspired by David’s personal run-in with a squadron of squirrels who repeatedly infiltrated his house in Baltimore several years ago. It doesn’t necessarily condemn the species but seeks to present two differing perspectives. And the way that Zanilonia has crafted the music to complement this makes Squirrel World a thoroughly enjoyable listen.
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BELOW: Listen to Squirrel World and connect with his website and social media platforms. Please support Zanilonia by visiting him online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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