Samanta Liza announced that her first collaboration EP, Surroundings, with artists Gaspa and Aezon, was released October 19.

Aezon is a former Sandy Hook resident and world-renowned percussionist, having participated in six national tours and holds a 2013 Drum Corps International World Champion title. Aezon comes from a classical piano and military-style percussion background. They have designed, taught, and arranged for various high school, middle school, and independent percussion ensembles along the East Coast and participate in the Drum Corps activity when possible.

Starting in 2020, Aezon took to the electronic scene, combining the live and electronic experience. Aezon’s heavy percussion influence can be seen across their productions through odd time signatures and playful rhythms.

The three have been performing and drawing fans to New York venues during 2021. They feel this is the start of an exciting journey ahead.

Along with the EP announcement, a release event will be held in New York (venue to be announced). Liza wrote, recorded, and produced the records in her studio in Brooklyn, together with guitarist Gaspa, percussionist Aezon, and featuring percussionist Shafreaq on “Myself.” It is a true collaboration both in songwriting and artistry.

Liza describes the journey of creation, saying, “Each song reflects a particular moment in time. There’s a bit of each one of us in the songs, Gaspa’s sassy electric guitar, Aezon’s quirky rhythmic sounds. It was truly such a joy bringing it all together during the production process.”

Surroundings is composed of five tracks, including a couple of Radio Edits. The songs cover a wide range of moods, from sitting alone with one’s thoughts to getting lost in fun drumming games. Each song varies in genre, yet are all rooted in the joy that is collaboration and embracing one’s surroundings.

Jonathan Sherman, CEO and founder of Return Records, says he and others at the label have felt that Liza “was going to be one of those special artists with the ability to bridge genres and musical styles, helping to push the boundaries of underground music” since the musician’s first introduction to her label.

“We are so thrilled she has decided to sign with us and can’t wait for what’s to come of our journey together,” Sherman added.

For more information, visit samantaliza.com or e-mail manager@samantalizamusic.com.