ZASKA

ZASKA plays modern neo-soul infused with indie jazz. Max Zaska is a guitarist, songwriter, musical director, and producer known for his collaborations with Irish artists, including Hozier.

ZASKA’s 3rd studio album NECTAR is an upbeat, danceable blend of soul, jazz, and hip-hop. The first single, No Right Time (feat. Melina Malone) landed on Spotify’s ‘Fresh Finds UK’, ‘A Breath of Fresh Éire’ and ‘Sweet Soul Sunday playlist’. NECTAR will be released in mid-2025.

Blending influences from Silk Sonic, Snarky Puppy, Tom Misch and Nubiyan Twist with a guitar style that pulls from greats George Benson, Nile Rodgers, and Carlos Santana creates a sound uniquely ZASKA.

ZASKA’s high-energy live shows leave audiences buzzing with media describing performances as “masterful,” “incomparable,” and “joyous.” From sold-out headline shows Upstairs at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London and the Button Factory, Dublin to the Mladí ladí Jazz Festival in Prague and Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, ZASKA delivers good vibes.

The second album, A Better Way (2022), looks at sustainability and is highlighted by infectious rhythms textured with horns and strings. “Notes of pure optimism coursing throughout,” The Irish Times. Songs received support from BBC Radio 1 Introducing, Spotify’s ‘A Breath of Fresh Éire’ and Japan’s ‘Monday Spin,’ KCRW, and British Airways & Aer Lingus ‘Next Big Thing.’

ZASKA’s critically acclaimed debut album, It Takes A Village (2019), boldly expresses the complex emotions of becoming a father. It was named Album of the Year by RTÉ 2XM’s Groover’s Corner host Peter Curtin.

“Zaska plunders the worlds of neo-soul, funk, hip-hop, rock, and jazz, making for an enjoyably idiosyncratic listen.” (Hot Press)

“A benchmark example of the talent that exists in this country.” (The Irish Times)