A year after releasing her second studio album, musician Iva Pažin Zhiva released a new video single titled “Atom” on Glitch Records last week.
"It is a trip-hop/metal song that explores love on the verge of self-destruction - an intense, dark and obsessive emotion. The song and video were created out of a need to portray an authentic, unconventional emotion. It also announces a new, darker and bolder creative chapter, as well as a longer release planned for the end of the year," the statement explained.
The music and lyrics are by Zhiva, and the production, arrangement and music are by producer Toshi Domaćin. The guitar parts were recorded by Danijel Grahovac, and the drums by Rijad Šuta, whose contributions gave the song rawness and weight.
The video was produced and directed by Toshi Domaćin, based on the script by Zhiva, with cinematography by Ismar Begtašević and Dženan Đopa. The visual identity, design and editing were done by Ismar Begtašević, while the choreography was created by Thomas Steyaert. The video features dancers Ajra Branković, Amila Šnagić and Franko Bralo, and was filmed at Klicker Studio.
"The song "Atom" was created last year and brings a step forward from the previous framework - both sonically and authorially. Intimate, powerful and energetically different, it represents a departure from the comfort zone and announces the direction in which Zhiva's musical expression will further develop," the announcement of the song and video adds.
"'Atom' is a song in which I allowed myself to go a step further. I needed a break to find a sound and feeling that are completely mine," said Zhiva, and in an interview for "Vijesti" she reveals more about the single itself, and also announces more new songs.
Why did we wait a year for new material? What was "cooking" during that period?
The break was unplanned, but clearly necessary. After two albums in two years and many concerts, I felt that I needed to stop and process everything. From that standstill came the desire to try something new and step outside my comfort zone. I was also very sensitive to everything that was happening in our country and in the world, and I felt that it was important to wait for the right moment.
What does the new single “Atom” bring us?
“Atom” brings a new, harder sound. I've always been attracted to metal and all its variations, but now I've found the courage to publicly show my passion.
You participated in the creation of the video - how did you find your way in that role? Is it better when a musician creates his own visual identity?
From the very beginning, I had a clear vision for the video. Previously, I would leave that part to my collaborators, but now I wanted to challenge myself and actively participate in everything - from the script to the aesthetics. I don't think it's always better for a musician to create the video themselves, but it's crucial that the team shares the same vision and believes in the idea equally.
“Atom” announces a new, darker and bolder chapter - where did this inspiration come from?
“Darker” may sound overly dramatic, but bolder certainly is. I consciously push myself outside my comfort zone, through new vocal techniques and more direct, bolder lyrics. Inspiration comes from personal growth and the sense of freedom I have after each finished song.
Will all the songs be in a similar genre? Will we hear a softer side of Zhiva?
I'm currently exploring a harder sound, but it's important to me that everything remains authentically mine. For me, metal is one of the rawest ways to express both passion and tenderness - so the tender side never goes away, it just changes form.
When can we expect more songs?
We are already working on new songs and the reactions to “Atom” have given us extra momentum. I can only promise you won't have to wait long.
Bonus video:
