sui zhen
Sui Zhen is the alias of Melbourne-based ‘dream beat’ artist Becky Sui Zhen. Sui Zhen has released Secretly Susan on Australian label Dot Dash/Remote Control to back up complimentary EPs sold out releases (Female Basic and Body Reset) on Tokyo labels Eskers and Teto in 2014. Following her recent electronic experimentation with ethereal techno-pop and minimal down-tempo 808-lead tracks, the LP marks a return to more traditional vocal-led pop songs.
The album takes influence from Japanese lovers rock, 80s electro-bossanova and dubby-lounge pop which Becky discovered during holidays in Japan and London where she was a participant at the Red Bull Music Academy. Playing records as DJ Susan is a new outlet for Becky, allowing her to share the references and context that informs her distinct approach to music making.
With over tens years experience performing in various lineups, Becky has found a special synergy in her current live band Sui et Sui, comprising former fellow NSW residents, Alec Marshall (Hot Palms, Why Don’t You Believe Me Records) and Ashley Bundang (Totally Mild, Zone Out). The trio have captivated audiences alongside acts such as Majical Cloudz, Toro y Moi and Julia Holter as well as at recent events including Outside In, White Night, CMJ, and Vivid at the Sydney Opera House. Becky also provides vocals and percussion to Melbourne’s well-loved ‘heat beat’ band, NO ZU.
The self produced Secretly Susan immersed the listener in the larger narratives that surround Becky’s work. From the banal pastel dystopia of her Infinity Street video to the invention of Susan, an alter ego who manifests in the forthcoming single Take It All Back – these colourful, surreal and staged landscapes allow Becky’s take on pop music to sit within its own uncanny terrain.
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Grace Robinson: grace@watartists.com