Billie Zizi’s "Levitate" is A Dreamy Journey Through Life and Love

Singer-songwriter Billie Zizi from Edmonton, Alberta, is set to unveil her long-awaited new record, Levitate. This collection of dreamy songs encapsulates a range of styles, from earnest folk rock to eerie singer-songwriter ballads. Each track reflects Zizi’s experience of navigating life through the lens of her tight-knit hometown community, creating a soundscape that is both familiar and evocative.

With Levitate, Zizi offers a glimpse into her eclectic world. She describes the album as a reflection of her experiences, saying, “From the gas station love affairs of pitbull-walking, rhinestone-adorned Edmontonians to the spiritual levity of transcendence, this album is a glimpse into my strange mind and the life I’ve lived.” Themes of loss, radiant love, transience, delirium, and indefatigable hope permeate the record, weaving together a narrative that is deeply personal yet universally relatable. For Zizi, this album represents the culmination of years of dreaming and creating: “I dreamed this record into being over many years. It's a love letter to Edmonton, to delighting in the simple things like hot dogs and friendship and the prairie sky and the absurdity of it all. To all the Dirt City angels, the big dreamers, the lovers, and the dancers, this is for you: I hope you like it.”

One of the standout tracks, “Midnight Sun,” showcases Zizi's poetic lyricism and songwriting prowess. The song originated from a writing prompt that encouraged her to reference a natural phenomenon, leading her to explore the concept of the midnight sun. She beautifully describes a world “soaked in the luminous 24-hour sun,” envisioning a love that flourishes in this light. Zizi reflects on the transient nature of such joy, noting that “inevitably, the winter would come and with it the love would wither and die.” This duality captures the essence of life’s fleeting moments, drawing listeners into her introspective journey.

Co-produced with album collaborator Austin Parachoniak, “Midnight Sun” is characterized by its inherent groove, crafted to translate seamlessly to a live performance. The arrangement gradually deepens in intensity, intertwining Zizi’s soulful vocals with intricate guitar lines. This dynamic interplay creates a rich auditory experience that mirrors the emotional weight of the lyrics, allowing listeners to feel the ebb and flow of love and longing.

The production of Levitate reflects Zizi's desire to create music that resonates with authenticity. By collaborating with Parachoniak, she has crafted a sound that is both polished and raw, embracing the imperfections that come with vulnerability. This approach aligns with her artistic vision, emphasizing the importance of sincerity in her music.

Beyond the personal stories woven throughout the album, Zizi's work also speaks to the broader human experience. Each song serves as a reflection of her surroundings and the people who inhabit them, illustrating the beauty and absurdity of everyday life. The playful nods to her community—such as the “gas station love affairs” and “pitbull-walking” characters—infuse the album with a sense of place that is distinctly Edmontonian. This celebration of her roots adds depth to the project, inviting listeners to connect with the landscapes and stories that have shaped her identity.

As Levitate prepares for its release, Billie Zizi stands on the brink of an exciting new chapter in her musical career. With its heartfelt narratives, captivating melodies, and reflections on life’s complexities, the album promises to resonate with fans old and new. Billie’s journey through the intricacies of love, loss, and hope offers a comforting reminder that, despite life’s challenges, there is beauty to be found in our shared experiences.

In conclusion, Levitate is more than just an album; it is an exploration of the human spirit through the lens of Billie Zizi’s unique perspective. With each track, she invites listeners to journey alongside her, celebrating the simple joys and profound connections that define our lives. As her music continues to evolve, Zizi remains a powerful voice in the Canadian music scene, ready to inspire with her stories and melodies.