Max Zaska is a guitarist, songwriter, musical director, and producer best known for his feel-good blend of neo-soul, modern funk, and indie jazz. ZASKA is a supergroup of Irish talent with collaboration at its heart that started with the band’s original vocalist, Hozier.
ZASKA’s second album, A Better Way, has a sustainability theme and will be released in fall 2022 with singles out throughout the year. This album draws inspiration from the contemporary UK jazz & neo-soul scene and features vocalists Tolü Makay, Faye O’Rourke (Soda Blonde), Melina Malone, J Smith, Jess Kav, and more.
It Takes A Village is ZASKA’s critically acclaimed 2019 debut album featuring over 25 performers including Wyvern Lingo and Loah and was named Album of the Year on RTÉ 2XM.
In a one-month residency at the Centre Culturel Irlandais in Paris in 2022, Max invited guests Gemma Dunleavy, Shiv, Kean Kavanagh, and Melina Malone to collaborate. Each week a different artist wrote with Max, concluding in a live show presenting the new work. The Paris Sessions will be finished in studio and released in 2023.
In 2021, Max produced and co-wrote 2 albums as part of the ambitious project, MåsExödus, blending contemporary jazz with hip hop elements. The project culminated in sold-out shows at the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival with Chicago-based Hypnotic Brass Ensemble and Denise Chaila. A concert film was produced and directed by legendary hip hop photographer B+ (Brian Cross). The albums and film will be released in 2022.
With a reputation for incredible, high-energy live performances, ZASKA has headlined shows and festivals throughout Ireland. Named one of Ireland's best guitarists, Max Zaska has a B.A. in Jazz Performance.
The Irish Times“A benchmark example of the talent that exists in this country. ”