TZU


TZU was an Australian hip hop group, formed in Melbourne, Victoria. TZU used instruments in live performances, giving their shows a rock-infused feeling. The are best known for their 2008 album, Computer Love, which peaked in the ARIA top 30.

History

The group formed in 1999 as a side project, combining members of the groups Curse ov Dialect and Pan. The name TZU is taken from the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu. The band name was thought of and gifted to TZU by Lee Hartney from The Smith Street Band. The band originally called itself "Tzu", but changed its name due to the common mispronunciation of "T-Z-U". In 2005, keyboard player Duzy What was added to the group's lineup.
In early 2006, they won Yahoo! Music's "Who's Next" monthly music poll.
In 2008, the band released Computer Love. Rolling Stone Australia said "Melbourne group TZU just can't stop upping the ante... They meld classic eighties electro with the more traditional funk keeping the emphasis on authenticity and class throughout." Inpress said "Computer Love is full of old school synth's, masterful sampling and live instrumentation - a maverick in its field and release that will set a new standard for the Australian music landscape."
Richard Kingsmill, Musical Director of Australian radio station Triple J, stated in regard to the band's 2008 J Award nomination for Computer Love, "They open their album saying "TZU still feelin' awesome". I couldn't agree more. They keep growing as an act and expanding on their influences. This album has so much life and they're doing all this themselves. No mentors, producers or anyone getting in the way. Pure talent."
In 2012, after a period of inactivity for the band, TZU released their final album Millions of Moments. To promote the album, they went on tour. Subsequently, Joelistics pursued a solo career and Count Bounce became a producer.

Discography

Studio albums

Remix albums

Extended Plays

Singles

Awards and nominations

Nominations