Zebra by Cal in Red is a looming, atmospheric, indie pop tune, and the latest single from brothers Connor and Kendall Wright. Throughout, listeners will hear Kendall’s falsetto pleading overtop bright guitars, groovy bass, and punchy drums. The choruses present the full spectrum of Cal in Red’s sound when soaring harmonies, strings, and fuzz come in to disarm the „morning sunlight“ while also giving listeners a reason to dance.
Zebra was recorded in a couple different locations, all basements and bedrooms. The drums were recorded and produced with the help of Max McKinnon (cousin of the brothers) in his basement studio. Everything else was done in Connor’s bedroom. The actual recording process was pretty sporadic as they currently live an hour apart. After full days of work (both currently work 2-3 jobs, often amounting to 10-12 hour days), Kendall would make the drive and they’d record well into the night any chance they got. Vocals, bass, and guitar were done by Kendall. Drums and synths along with the mixing of the track are credited to Connor.
As to the songs meaning Kendall had this to say, “As I’ve gotten older, the realization that I’m not the center of the universe has kind of hit me like a brick. A lot of people (myself included) grow into this belief that we’re the most important person on the planet, and that’s a dangerous, privileged spot to be in. Sure a Zebra is unique if you’re contrasting it to a horse but guess what, there are fields and fields full of Zebras out there. I’m learning to rethink and break habits that, overall, were keeping me from a greater appreciation and understanding of everyone around me. I guess it’s a call to realization and growth.”
The music video was shot in Grand Rapids at their friends Chance and Richelle’s house. Their friend, longtime photographer, and mentor Alex Bolen directed. The 5 hour shoot was championed by a projector, a ladder, a white wall, and many cheezits.