Zanski
Toronto-based musician Tom Probizanski (a.k.a. Zanski) has an incredibly distinct style. The definition of a genre bending artist, he mixes electronic R&B with melodic guitars and striking vocals to create a unique, infectious sound. Songs such as “Fool” and “Move (B-Side)” have earned him over 6 million Spotify listens, as well as features on Spotify’s “Low-Key”, “Alternative R&B”, and “New Music Friday Canada” Playlists. His most popular release, 2018’s “Fool”, garnered over 3.3 million streams alone. With fans from all over North America, Zanski looks to break into the mainstream in 2020. His latest EP, Upon Frigid Water, was released on July 3rd and is powerful indicator of the artist’s abilities. We recently spoke with Zanski about how he started making music, his dream venue, and more!
How did you get started making music?
It grew out of my severe procrastination in schooling, and a desire to express myself and the thing I felt every day. I felt paralyzed at the trajectories that seemed inevitable to me in my life, and I wanted an alternative. I started playing guitar occasionally, and eventually moved to electronic music production when I was in my teens. From there, I kept at it, working on various musical endeavors and learning instruments, eventually landing on where I’m at now.
Which artists have had the greatest impact on your career?
Ones that push boundaries while remaining authentic; Justin Vernon, La Dispute, D’angelo, etc.
How would you describe your music to a new listener?
Alternative/R&B mixed with some indie and soul influence, and sometimes a little bit of punk when it fits.
“Fool” did numbers on Spotify. Walk us through writing the song.
Fool actually was a much ‘bigger’ sounding song originally; I had written it with much more instrumentation in mind. The song went through a few iterations, but ended up being stripped down to it’s essentials; 808’s, A single guitar, and slap-delay vocals. I wanted to get a ‘big’ vibe without resorting to filling up the song with needless instrumentation.
As for the actual writing process, it’s pretty much the same as most of my music. I started with a blank slate, chose a random instrument, and started playing. I was just messing with a p-bass and a drum loop that felt disjointed on purpose. I don’t really plan anything or work off of specific inspiration. I mostly try and write like a jam session, playing parts off of each other until something sticks, and continuously building until something resembles a song. Sometimes it works and I get something, and sometimes I trash the whole thing.
What would be your dream venue to play at?
Somewhere outside on a mountain maybe? Honestly, somewhere weird and surreal where it feels like I can really connect with people.
Favorite non-music activities?
Walking and existing in places; I love traveling and pretending I live in the city that I’ve ventured into, especially when I can drag some friends along. I like to read horror novels and philosophy; weird combo. I play too much PS4, especially COD with a few friends - I honestly thought that by now, at 26, I would have outgrown, it but my 14 year old self is still pulling some strings I guess. Love to cook - I’ve been trying to shift my diet to a full vegan diet, so it’s been fun trying to translate a lot of cooking styles to accommodate it. I watch a ton of movies - I have a secret Letterboxd that I write short reviews on - I find it helps to keep my thoughts organized.
Are there any future projects fans can be looking forward to?
Always, but things are always changing. I’d say I’m confident that you’ll see a full length project from me very soon, and maybe another bunch of stuff right after that.
