Inherently coded into ZZ Ward‘s musical DNA is the proclivity to fuse genres, with blues and hip hop forming the core. The artist’s new album, Dirty Shine, not only highlights this creative approach but also a mantra that has been embraced by herself and her fans alike.

“The concept of ‘dirty shine’ is larger than the record,” the Los Angeles-based singer says. “When I put out my first album, my fans and I started saying we are ‘dirty shine.’ It was about embracing who you are—we are all dirty, a little rough around the edges. I’ve always had this vibe, but I feel like this time in my life is like ‘dirty shine’ on steroids. I can fully be myself, and nothing can stop me.”

13 tracks long, Dirty Shine amalgamates blues, rock, hip hop, pop and electronica. Heavy drum-beats dominate the tracks, with ZZ delivering each song with emotion, charm and self-assuredness. Now releasing music independently, she revels in her creative freedom.

The album starts with an epic intro which effectively sets the tone. Whether Ward is celebrating love on songs like “Ride Or Die” with Vic Mensa or she’s telling off a cheating ex on “Forget About Us”, she manages to keep listeners totally enthralled.

“OverdoZZe” marks the height of bliss that the artist reaches. On the other hand, “Tin Cup”, a stripped down gripping piece featuring Aloe Blacc, finds ZZ mellowing things down a bit.

Ward was born Zsuzsanna Eva Ward in Abington, Pennsylvania. Raised in the small town of Roseburg, Oregon, her taste was influenced by her dad’s record collection as well as her brother who was a huge hip hop fan. When she started making music, it was obvious what genres would inform her sound. The production on Dirty Shine is particularly amazing. A host of acclaimed producers like Mike Elizondo, S1, Jason Evigan, Dave Bassett as well as Göransson and Mark Jackson & Ian Scott.

Dirty Shine boasts impeccable songwriting as well. With ZZ having gone through a number of life transitions, including the birth of her first child and running an imprint, she has no shortage of topics to be inspired by and explore. The lyrics point to an artist tapping into her innate power.

The album is not just a collection of songs; it’s a full experience. While you listen to Dirty Shine, connect with ZZ Ward on Instagram.

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