HI-LO and ZHU Dive into Fear and Liberation in Dark Techno Track “Afraid to Live”

In a powerful new collaboration, HI-LO and ZHU take listeners deep into the world of underground techno with their haunting track, “Afraid To Live.” The track, which melds the talents of Oliver Heldens under his HI-LO alias and ZHU’s techno persona, Blacklizt, explores themes of fear and freedom, using dark rhythms and hypnotic melodies to challenge listeners to confront their deepest anxieties.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by HI-LO (@hilo_ofc)

The core question, “Are you afraid to live?” repeats throughout the track, acting as both a haunting refrain and a dare, asking listeners to examine their own fears. The minimalistic, repetitive hook works in perfect contrast with the relentless techno beat, enveloping listeners in a soundscape that feels raw, primal, and powerfully evocative. It’s more than just a track—it’s an experience designed to push boundaries and provoke introspection.

Oliver Heldens, already well known for his house music success, embraces the darker, more intense side of electronic music with HI-LO. In “Afraid To Live,” he brings a gritty edge to the track, employing deep, driving basslines and thumping percussion that propel the track into ominous territory. Heldens taps into the core elements of techno—pulsing beats and repetitive rhythms—creating a track that stays true to the genre’s underground roots.

ZHU, whose presence in electronic music has always carried an air of mystique, adds his signature hypnotic touch. Under his Blacklizt alias, ZHU’s influence can be heard in the subtle intricacies woven into the track. Known for his ability to combine introspective lyrics with brooding soundscapes, ZHU brings an additional layer of depth to “Afraid To Live.” This release echoes themes from his recent album GRACE, which delved into spiritual exploration and personal introspection.

“Afraid To Live” offers a perfect blend of both artists’ strengths. While Heldens’ production under HI-LO drives the track forward with its unrelenting intensity, ZHU’s introspective and atmospheric style elevates it to a more cerebral level. The result is a techno anthem that not only makes you move but also makes you think.

The collaboration is set to make a major impact at the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), where HI-LO will perform at Dockyard Festival on October 19th. Known for its after-hours atmosphere and pulsating energy, ADE is the perfect platform for “Afraid To Live” to make its live debut. Fans of both artists are eagerly awaiting the track’s full release, which promises to resonate within the global techno community.

“Afraid To Live” is a bold and daring anthem that challenges its listeners, reflecting the darker, introspective side of techno. It marks a successful collaboration between two of electronic music’s most innovative figures, offering a taste of what’s possible when genres collide and boundaries are pushed.