Hazel Smith, the former lead singer of the band D’Haze, has taken her own solo path in the music industry. Her new solo project, otherwise known as H A Z E, includes a great deal of dark pop and electro, with experiments with many genres such as synth wave and prog rock. In this instance, Hazel is taking influence from other artists such as Radiohead, Nine Inch Nails and Billie Eilish.

For today, we are looking at H A Z E’s first ever EP release, which dropped a few months back. “Future/Past” is a four-track long EP and is absolutely amazing! Each and every song has its own specialities, and I cannot fault them at all!

The music in this EP has a very dark side to it, and even can come across as slightly intimidating.

My personal favourite track from the collection has got to be track number two, “Shadow.” This one is slightly more laid-back compared to the rest, and we really get to hear Hazel’s talented voice in this song. Her vocals are outstanding and are so lovely to listen to. The music starts off quiet, with just a simple beat and a piano, giving a slightly softer effect. This then builds up as the song goes on, engrossing us more and more as it continues.

Unlike “Shadow,” the third track of the EP, “Owe Me,” is more of an upbeat, powerful sounding track. For this masterpiece, Hazel has teamed up with Reckless Jacks and have created a harder sound, which is full of energy. I also love this track, with the music, the vocals and the vibe being absolutely outstanding!

I do not think that I can personally give this EP the recognition and justice that it deserves, so you must give Hazel and her first EP as a soloist a listen to. “Future/Past” is available to listen to on Spotify now, and I can promise you this is not one to just breeze past!

This review is purely the property of The Music Asylum