This is not our first encounter with Dutch drummer and bandleader Hans-Peter de Zeeuw. In fact, we wrote about him back in 2023, praising ‘Something New’ as “channelling the best funk and acid jazz around”. We are now pleased to focus on d’Z once again, although in a slightly different musical setting. ‘Inner Child’ is the project’s latest effort, an observant, carefree gem that sees de Zeeuw put together a stellar line-up that perfectly serves the record.
From a sonic standpoint, ‘Inner Child’ delivers exactly what we would expect from d’Z: uplifting fusion-pop steeped in soulful influences and kinetic grooves. The evocative and wholesome vocals heard on the piece are courtesy of Dutch songwriter Emmie te Pas. Featuring renowned percussionist Jeroen de Rijk as a special guest, the current iteration of d’Z collective is a joy to listen to, melodic and heartwarming yet also bold and musically interesting.
Delving deeper into the meaningful lyrical ethos that propels the track, we are told: “‘Inner Child’ is basically a children’s song for adults. The world today seems far removed from playfulness, harmony, and simplicity. The song feels like a short journey back in time, before we lost ourselves in the chaos of day-to-day life.” We appreciate such purpose; behind d’Z’s impressive musicianship, the project hides a reflective, relatable lyrical side.
Recommended! Discover ‘Inner Child’ now: