d’Z is the musical project of drummer and songwriter Hans-Peter de Zeeuw, who blends jazz and funk into an easygoing, groove-first style. His new single, “Inner Child,” features vocalist Emmie te Pas and rounds up a full room of collaborators, including percussionist Jeroen de Rijk as a special guest, Kjell Jacobson on guitar, Hananja Olthuis on bass, Jasper Mellema on keys, and a string quartet made up of Roland Heijligers and Miriam Peeters on violin, Victor Brasoveano on viola, and Alain Plasschaert on cello.
Inner Child
“Inner Child” is soft and pleasing, built around a joyful, unhurried atmosphere rather than any big dramatic moment. Emmie te Pas sets that tone from the first line, her voice quiet and natural, giving each phrase plenty of time and letting the melody flow over the music instead of pushing through it. There’s real warmth in that restraint. She never tips into flat or sleepy, just relaxed enough that the song feels like an easy conversation.
The groove is just as important. The beat stays steady and loose once the vocal arrives, giving the track plenty of forward movement without ever breaking the laid-back mood, and the percussion adds small touches of color without pulling attention away from the singing. Lyrically, the song is about reconnecting with the playful, peaceful parts of ourselves that get buried under everyday routine, and the music mirrors that idea well. It’s light on the surface but carries a real thought underneath, and the simplicity of the arrangement is a big part of why it works. d’Z keeps the whole thing engaging without overcomplicating it, letting the smooth vocal, gentle groove, and percussion sit together in a comfortable, uncluttered sound.
Final Thoughts
“Inner Child” is a small, welcome pause in a busy day, a song that doesn’t push or demand anything from the listener and just lets them settle into the moment. It’s out now on major streaming platforms. Follow d’Z on Instagram and Facebook.
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