Grand Alliance Music announces the release of ‘SoulSmack,’ the new EP from Austin-based brass-bass duo Zhonk. The three-track project captures a year of underground shows, late-night experimentation, and steady online growth, distilling their live energy into a tight studio statement built around saxophone, trombone, and heavy low-end production.
Formed by Patrick Donaghey on saxophone and Sawyer Green on trombone, Zhonk fuse live brass performance with glitch-hop grooves, funk bounce, and halftime bass pressure. ‘SoulSmack’ centers on improvisational horn lines that cut through thick beats, with rhythmic interplay designed for packed dance floors and festival stages.
The EP features three originals, “SoulSmack,” “Funk Your DnB,” and “Saucy,” the latter featuring electronic artist Willdabeast, known for horn-forward bass production and national touring. “This project represents what we do live — high-energy horns and unapologetic low end,” Zhonk share. “It’s loud, it’s playful, and it reflects the ‘dirty brass’ sound that’s become our identity.”
As the brass-driven bass movement continues to expand, with artists like GRiZ and Big Gigantic helping pave the way, Zhonk carve out their own lane through performance-first intensity. ‘SoulSmack’ positions the duo for a wider reach while staying grounded in the DIY ethos and community roots that built their sound.