British-Iranian producer Hiatus, the moniker of Cyrus Shahrad, prepares to release his fifth studio album, Is, on November 8, 2024, via Lucky Thunder. Known for weaving Persian musical traditions with contemporary electronic and classical elements, Hiatus continues to evolve his sound with this highly anticipated record.
The single Delta, a standout from the album, showcases Hiatus’ ability to merge evocative instrumentation with subtle, immersive production. Opening with a delicate piano motif underpinned by strings, the track gradually introduces improvisational violin and atmospheric textures. Vocals, subtle and layered, enhance the track’s sonic depth, creating an engaging and reflective vibe.
Evolving from sets performed at Anjunadeep Explorations festival in Albania, Delta features a chopped-up vocal sample from singer Bo Bruce, soaring over a soundscape of pulsing beats, swirling synths, and cinematic ambiance. The track’s ethereal tone conjures imagery of waves lapping at the shore as the sun rises—a perfect encapsulation of the festival atmosphere where it was first introduced. Accompanied by a stunning hand-drawn music video by Isabella Barszcz, Delta ventures into a psychedelic, cosmic realm that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Is marks a shift in tone for Hiatus, described as his most joyful work to date. While his previous album, Distancer, reflected the grief and isolation of the pandemic, Is celebrates the present moment, exploring themes of hope and euphoria. Collaborations with Iranian singer Malahat Haddad and Faraz Eshghi Sahraei’s kamancheh infuse the record with microtonal Persian music, blending seamlessly with electronic and classical elements—a hallmark of Hiatus’ style.
“This record attempts to convey a feeling of hope that has been an unexpected companion this last couple of years,” says Hiatus. The album reflects his personal journey through challenges, such as family illness and geopolitical crises, while also embracing moments of joy and release.
Since debuting in 2010 with Ghost Notes, Hiatus has gained recognition for his ability to channel Iranian heritage through innovative electronic music. Drawing on inspirations from his father’s record collection, his music has featured samples of ancient Persian poetry, Iranian nursery rhymes, and traditional records. Tracks like Rive and Insurrection have garnered critical acclaim, with mainstream radio play and accolades such as Best Animation at the 2013 UK Music Video Awards for We Can Be Ghosts Now.
