Zea Mays formed in Belgrade, Serbia in 2003 with core members Nebojša 'Boban' Markovič on vocals and guitar, Vladimir 'Vlada' Markovič on guitar and vocals, and Miloš Nedeljkovič on bass. Their name comes from a type of corn, which nods to agricultural traditions in their region.
Their early albums like the self-titled 'Zea Mays' from 2004 and 'Koncert' in 2006 had a raw sound that drew from Balkan folk melodies. Later records such as 'Stereophonic' and 'Motel California' brought in more ambient and electronic elements alongside their folk and art rock foundations.
In 2014, the song 'Eroa' became a breakthrough for the band. It's a haunting ballad that appears on their list of top tracks, which also includes 'Ilargiak Badaki' and 'Aske'. The band has been known for outspoken political views that have drawn criticism at times, though they've maintained a dedicated following who appreciate their artistic approach.
Keep it compact: a lyric you come back to, a live memory, or the part of the catalog you would point someone toward first.
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