Romanian queer musician Maria Sgarcitu, known by the moniker Sofia Zadar, releases highly anticipated EP, “Hictopia”. Building upon the success of their previously released singles, “Nostos” and “RED,” this EP introduces three new tracks that showcase Sofia Zadar’s refreshing and infectious take on alternative pop.
Led by the angelic “Polymyth”, a track packed ever-changing dynamics and evolving instrumentation will transport listeners to ethereal dimensions. “Sâmca” and the title track, “Hictopia,” offers hard-hitting beats, impactful synths, and soulful vocal lines. Sofia Zadar fearlessly experiments with polyphony, atypical compositional structures, and processed organic beats, merging sonic craft with perceptive storytelling to create a unique and memorable sonic experience.
Sofia Zadar’s music aims to unite and engage marginalized communities, exploring posthumanist and utopian visions through a trauma-informed lens. Their experimental pop sound has garnered praise from important tastemakers and fans alike. Having lived in the UK, Berlin, and Barcelona, Maria returned to Bucharest in 2018 and embarked on their musical journey, laying the foundation for Sofia Zadar.
Drawing inspiration from their adjacent career as a theatre composer and actress, Sofia Zadar’s music performances are impactful and enchanting. The theatrical elements, including set and costume design, and art direction featured in their music videos, weave together seamlessly with their music, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
The “Hictopia” EP is out now and followed by an eagerly anticipated local tour of Romania’s major cities. Fans can expect to witness Sofia Zadar’s spellbinding stage presence and immersive performances firsthand.
Speaking about the EP, they say: “I conceived Hictopia as an exploration of the transformative possibilities of the here-and-now, whether these are emotional, somatic or collective. I believe this album to be a much-needed thread that sows utopianism to what is ancestrally within ourselves and our communities. Our ways of life in tune with earth and body are already here, underneath the layered systems that forbid our thriving. We need not search a thousand miles outside, but rather inches beneath, for the nurture and insight to birth new worlds.”
Listen below:
