WAZ-U – Vermillion Ft Lilyg: London-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Waz-u returns with his second album, Preludes: Dusk Psalms, set for release on 16 May 2025 via independent label Biodiversity. The 15-track record further refines the artistic depth of his debut, blending electronic textures and classical compositional techniques in an intricate, immersive listening experience.

Ahead of the album release, Waz-u is dropping an exclusive vocal version of ‘Vermillion: G Major’ from the album, accompanied by its original instrumental version. ‘Vermillion’ with Lilyg will be released on 18 April 2025, evoking intimate indie-folk and pop and follows the release of a vocal version of ‘Lament’ with Tom Norrington. ‘The singles are a way to give a voice to the atmosphere of the record and to lyrically encapsulate some of the themes explored,’ explains Waz-u. ‘Lily and Tom are good friends of mine and have both been listening to early iterations of these preludes – it felt right to involve them directly on this record.’

‘Preludes: Dusk Psalms’ marks a new branch of Waz-u’s emerging sound, guided by the duality of tradition and innovation. Combining his musical roots in early ‘90s dub techno and classical music, the album weaves carefully layered synthesizers and electronics to evoke the ambience of sacred music — from the gentle timbres of a choir or an organ to the quiet, open, and reverberating spaces of a church. Also featured throughout the album is experimental musician G9 LUV, who creates textures and drones by bowing his bass guitar, resulting in cello-like sounds. The release follows Waz-u’s 2024 debut LP, Prayer For Dawn, which merged dub, techno, and electronica in an exploration of the ritualistic traditions associated with both organized religion and dance.

Bringing the album’s themes to life, Waz-u will celebrate the release of Preludes: Dusk Psalms with a special performance at Our Holy Redeemer in Clerkenwell, London on 14 May 2025. Set against the church’s resonant acoustics, the event will feature live performance arrangements, including a choir, with further details to be announced soon.

About Waz-u

Born and raised in London, Waz-u is an interdisciplinary artist whose musical identity runs parallel with his mixed Afro-Caribbean and British heritage. His first instrument was the drums, with a focus on reggae and funk music, followed by classical piano, before he began producing electronic music in his late teens. Most of his tracks are written and mixed with minimal or no use of computers, allowing his sound to have sonic variability, often lacking in contemporary dance music. Waz-u is also the drummer for live alternative soul project Monzanto Sound and experimental punk project Nexus_0. With his brother, Mali Baden-Powell, Waz-u is a founder and member of Biodiversity Studios.

About Biodiversity Studios

Biodiversity Studios is a creative collective dedicated to the intersection of sonic culture and art, evolving from the former Rhythm Section Studio. Based in Greenwich’s Design District, the studio serves as a hub for music production, post-production, and live events, equipped with elite-level monitoring and a diverse range of equipment, from rare vintage synthesizers to cutting-edge outboard gear. With over a decade of industry experience, the team offers mixing, mastering, and production services at accessible rates, collaborating with partner studios across South London for larger projects. Beyond the studio, Biodiversity Studios fosters a community-oriented sonic ecosystem through musical events, art exhibitions, and record releases, championing diversity, collaboration, and an open-minded approach to creativity inspired by nature’s organic processes.

Preludes: Dusk Psalms tracklist

1. The Way Down: C minor

2. Light Unseen: A major
3. Silver Wing: A Major

4. Transcendence: Ab major

5. The Word: C major

6. Fallen Grace: C sharp minor
7. Colour Fades: E Major

8. Parting Gift: B minor

9. Equanimity: B major

10. Vermillion: G Major

11. Lifted Hands: E minor

12. Torn Veil: G minor
13. Lament: B minor
14. Moon Shadow: G major

15. Great Amen: B major