Zel: Still Right Here

Pitchfork

by Olivier Lafontant

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Zel’s *Still Right Here* is an 18-track album that captures the essence of stateless, mercurial trap music, leaving a lasting impression on listeners with its unique blend of gritty storytelling and avant-garde production. The track "Flrrt / Drink Water" stands out for its brooding yet hypnotic vibe, featuring fragmented hi-hats, evaporating synths, and Zel’s slithering delivery, reminiscent of LUCKI’s approach to negative space. This album redefines street rap with its lucid, cybernetic production style, as Zel weaves raw narratives about his world, from drug dealing to survival instincts. Zel has been building his craft under the radar through DPM, a collective he co-helms with Xang since 2023. Known for his cavalier, boots-on-the-ground approach and minimal social media presence, Zel’s debut mixtape *Still Right Here* marks a significant step into the spotlight, gaining traction on platforms like X and YouTube. His music reflects a misanthropic ethos, set against desolate soundscapes that feel deathly immediate, with his stony vocals delivering blunt, unfiltered truths. The album showcases Zel’s ability to collaborate with SoundCloud’s top avant-garde producers, resulting in a dynamic sonic palette. Tracks like myrlu and stepTeam’s "Flrrt / Drink Water" and chinapoet’s "Rear View" blend skittish rhythms with ethereal textures, creating a mesmeric yet volatile listening experience. The album’s production refracts colors from every angle, offering a fresh perspective on trap music while maintaining its raw edge. For readers interested in music, *Still Right Here* matters because it represents a bold departure from traditional rap narratives. Zel’s willingness to stay under the radar until now has allowed him to craft a debut that feels singular and ahead of its time. His loose, devil-may-care disposition combined with cutting-edge production makes this album required listening for fans

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Originally published on Pitchfork on 2/25/2026