A career in music was inevitable for Robin Taylor Zander. It’s in his heart, his soul — and his very DNA. “RTZ,” whose father is the founding frontman for iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band Cheap Trick, steps out with his debut solo album, The Distance. A versatile multi-instrumentalist, Robin is now a full-time member of Cheap Trick, a seamless utility player on guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
The Distance is awash in smoothly textured instrumentation and soaring, layered vocal harmonies and pop melodies. Robin melds together the influence of the Beatles and Beach Boys, the Rolling Stones, the Move and the Who and so many others, in a sonic palette that’s Robin’s own. Writing all the songs and recording guitar, bass, drums, and vocals for his solo debut, Robin reveals his exceptional musical chops, range, and versatility.
Growing up in a house filled with musical instruments, recordings, and memorabilia, Robin’s own musical journey goes back to the age of 3, when he got his first ukulele. He graduated to guitar when he was five, followed by drums, bass, and piano, and singing in his school chorus. “When I was little, I would take a record and try to learn the bass part or the guitar part, then the next day try to learn the drum part and piano part. Then I’d sing it and I’d be able to record it in my own.”
If there’s anything he’s learned since picking up that ukulele 25 years ago, it’s that there’s always something to prove, whether it’s in the studio or on stage. As Robin readily acknowledges. “The one thing I know is this is exactly what I want to be doing — and what I’ve always wanted to be doing.”
Confidential Records NYC is the record label of legendary producer Jack Douglas (John Lennon, Aerosmith, Cheap Trick). Jack has had the honor of producing five bands inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
“Cheap Trick’s Secret Weapon.” Rolling Stone
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