Zach

The CLEVELAND FREE TIMES
December 7-13, 2005 (Vol. 13, No. 33)

ZACH
Mesmerize
(Crooked River Groove)
www.zachmusic.net

The second release on the Crooked River Groove label, Zach’s Mesmerize was recorded by student recording engineers Kevin McFadden and Thomas Jeffries at the Cuyahoga Community College studios. The guys have done a masterful job here, as the semi-acoustic music sounds crisp and Zach’s soulful vocals really resonate. You can even hear every last whisper in the title track. It helps that Zach, a singer-songwriter who performs some 200 shows a year, is a seasoned musician and a great songwriter. While most of the 11 songs here fall roughly into the singer/songwriter genre, Zach branches out a bit, adding vocal percussion to “Life” and rocking out for “The Fade,” one of the disc’s best tracks.
-- Jeff Niesel
- The Cleveland Free Time

RELISH MAGAZINE
(WINSTON-SALEM JOURNAL)
30 March 2006
Page 8

It’s hard to imagine that anybody who goes to clubs hasn’t heard of Zach Freidhof, a young singer-songwriter known, simply, as ZACH (at least there’s no exclamation point). ZACH (why is he shouting?) essentially lives on the road, playing 200-plus shows a year in every club, room or lean-to that will have him. He has released a pair of good albums, and his better-than-average songwriting -- emotional, witty and surprisingly kinetic folk-pop – has started to win him a legion of fans. He sounds a bit like Dave Matthews – make of that what you will – but he carries himself with soul and elegance.

-- Ed Bumgardner
relish staff writer
- Relish (Winston-Salem Journal)

The Kids Are All Right

Akron Life and Leisure
June 2006, page 26

"The Kids Are All Right." British rock'n roll legends The Who penned that song title more than 40 years ago and, ever since, it has been a rallying cry for generations of youthful music lovers who feel their musical tastes are misunderstood, if not vilified, by their elders. While there will always be youthful music that deserves a little elder paranoia, plenty of adult-friendly music is created by musicians barely out of their teens.

In recent years, the Akron area has been blessed with a bumper crop of such performers, along with high quality venues in which to perform. Our area is home to a growing assortment of respectable small clubs where today's young musicians can creatively hone their skills and try out new songs to cozy but appreciative audiences that seem to have no age barriers.
So, who's making music that transverses a once insurmountable generation gap? On any given night, there are honestly many. Leading the charge are two guys not yet 25...

...Singer-songwriter Zach Freidhof was y our typical clean-cut Brecksville High School student who turned to music to pass the time when temporary health concerns sidelined his basketball game. Basketball's loss was music's gain. In the ensuing years, "Zach," his official performance moniker, has released six CDs and has piqued the curiosity of more than one major record label.

The very definition of "working musician," Zach performs more than 200 shows a year, playing on stage with both contemporary and classic performers like Chicago, Bad Company, Catie Curtis, Rick Springfield, Rusted Root and Michael Bolton. A repeat winner of many regional music awards, Zach channels smart and sensitive James Taylor-esque lyrics and melodies, peppered with the contemporary zing of Gavin DeGraw or Jason Mraz. His spunky live shows are mostly Zach originals, his his goose-bump-inducing cover of John Lennon's "Imagine" is worht the price of admission. Rarely a week goes by that Zach, solo acousitc, or with his full band, isn't playing someplace in the Akron area.

Ratings:
Zach CD-"Face With A View" released 5-05 4/5 stars

http://www.zachmusic.net

--Bill Gruber
- Akron Life and Leisure Magazine

Akron-based alt-rock singer/songwriter Zach is a dedicated road dog, faithfully touring no less than 200 days a year. Whilst in his teens, Zach collided with an almost fatal appendix rupture, turning aside his high-school basketball dreams. The upside: He picked up the guitar and jump-started his career. Zach's songs have been featured in a handful of indie flicks as well as MTV's Real World. Get "Some Love," from his 2009 release What I Meant to Say, recorded with Nick Chawala. Currently on tour.


Read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/phil-ramone-and-danielle-evin/dog-ears-music-volume-nin_b_315263.html - Huffington Post/ Phil Ramone

CLEVELAND FREE TIMES
August 24-30th, 2005 (Vol.13 No.18)
Pg. 28

ZACH
Face With a View
(Buffalo Zef Records)
zachmusic.net

Between the John Mayers and Jason Mrazs cluttering up the airwaves,
there's a surplus of male singer-songwriters these days. That's why
it's remarkable that Zach stands out. The 22-year-old's latest album
features everything from self-righteous folk songs ("BLT") to
radio-ready pop tunes ("Distracted") and love-on-the-rocks ballads
("Traces"). Recorded in Cleveland at Buffalo ZEF and Metrosync Studios
and produced by Jason Lustig and Zach, it's a professional sounding
recording. It features a number of cameos, including an appearance by
bassist Jeff Berlin (Al DiMeola, George Benson), who adds an
understated elegance to the Dave Matthews-like ballad "Girl in the
Corner (Chase Me Away)." – Jeff Niesel
- Cleveland Free Times

Cleveland Scene
April 23rd, 2009

Zach
(Buffalo ZEF)
zachmusic.net

You could call it Southern comfort. Singer-songwriter Zach went to Atlanta to record this, his ninth album, with producer Nick Chawala (Collective Soul, Gym Class Heroes, Elton John), and the result is his best, most natural sounding effort. Zach's vocals have a distinctive, soulful quality on the snappy first tune, "A Way Through." That sensibility carries through the disc on songs like "Sky Is Falling," with its terrific organ riff, and "Runway," which builds in intensity as Zach sings, "I wanna climb/I wanna climb." The song could be a commercial country hit if it landed in the right hands. At times, the production gets a little too fancy. But What I Meant to Say shows just how much Zach has developed after a decade-long career. — Jeff Niesel

Zach performs at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at Cuyahoga Falls High School (2300 4th St., Cuyahoga Falls). Tickets: $7. - Cleveland Scene

My personal taste in music may be as varied as my wardrobe but there's one characteristic that must remain consistent -energy and passion. There is nothing that will bore me faster than a musician or band that plays their music with the vigor of a slug. I'm not saying once on stage you have to act like you've been on a steady diet of Hydroxy Cut and Mountain Dew, but please at least act like you are enjoying what you are doing.
If there is one musician that I will never have to worry about fitting into the afore-mentioned slug category, it's Zach Friedhof. Zach is a young 23 yr old singer songwriter from Ohio who has started making some rather impressive waves in the music industry and my guess is after seeing him perform at Rubber Soul Thursday, he and his music might hit Sunami proportions in the near future. When I wasn't watching Zach move effortlessly from acoustic to electric guitar and from profound and evocative songs to crowd pleasing covers, I was watching the crowd. Not many singers can boast a fan base that ranges in age from 21 to 51, and in that Zach has an edge over most. His youth and effervescent personality draws the younger crowd in as this feels like "their" music and the more mature listeners wish for the same. As one person commented to me, "you can't "act" like you're having that much fun". Indeed it is no act. Zach is truly enjoying himself and it comes through in his music. Songs like "A Beautiful Possession" and "Liar" stick with you in a catchy way but there's also another quality to Zach's music that is often a rare find. His songs weave a tapestry that paints you a landscape and serve as a backdrop. Much like the last words of a good novel stick with the reader so do the notes of his guitar and the echo of his voice. So good are both, you don't want to shake them off. Zach's cd "A Beautiful Possession" is a must have , if for no other reason than it is probably the most aptly named cd of the summer.
- Go Triad Magazine

“Zach is an awesome talent! John Lennon's compassion courses through his veins. I'm very impressed with this kid and believe he is a star! He is also a down to earth, level headed decent human being willing to do whatever it takes to make it. Also, I've seen him live and he's just as good live as his recorded presentation and a charmer as well.” -Tom Kent
Elektra Records/ Formerly a DJ on WIXY, WHBQ, WIBG, WLS, WAVA, WKLIF

“ZACH’s performance is in a word, INCREDIBLE! I have never seen a solo performance like it. If you've never seen one of his solo shows you gotta go.” -Rick Reich
Rudedog Music Promotions

“Zach performed its unique, simple-but-confident tunes, the crowd jumped, laughed, and swelled to at least twice its original size. With each succeeding song, bodies pressed closer to the stage and closer to one another as the steady beat overtook their minds and limbs. Not one person stood still… As the players wound down and announced their last song, the crowd cheered and begged for more… ‘The band performed beyond my expectations’ said senior and Student Activities Board Officer Erik Butcher.”
- Rachel Womelsduff
The Collegian Magazine

“If Zach's intention was capturing the power of his live show, he succeeds on "1.19.2007." - The Cleveland Plain Dealer

“The very definition of "working musician," Zach performs more than 200 shows a year, playing on stage with both contemporary and classic performers… Zach channels smart and sensitive James Taylor-esque lyrics and melodies, peppered with the contemporary zing of Gavin DeGraw or Jason Mraz. His spunky live shows are mostly Zach originals, and his goose-bump-inducing cover of John Lennon's "Imagine" is worth the price of admission.” - Bill Gruber Program Manager 91.3 WAPS The Summit

“Zach’s music is pop/rock at its best, with catchy hooks and insightful, clever lyrics.
-Tim Busbey
Ashland Times-Gazette

“He's (Zach) very cool. I think "Distracted" is my favorite one. I hope it does well. He definitely deserves to be heard.”
-Maia Sharp
Singer/Songwriter

“ZACH has exceptional talent and I’d like to see him make it all the way. I think he will. And that’s why I’m here [performing with ZACH].”
- Jeff Berlin
World’s #1 Bassist

“Zach is a seasoned musician and a great songwriter.”
- Jeff Niesel
Cleveland Free Times

“Zach is a great talent and an awesome performer. His song, ‘Distracted,’ has such a good hook; I swear you’ll be singing it in the shower for a week.”
- Nora Spitznogle NUVO Indy’s Alternative Voice

"We did that kids show, which was great. He was great! He was dancing on the stage. The kids were loving him! He was very animated. I really enjoyed having him on that show. And his album is great -- in the groove!"
- Johnny Ciao,
Legendary Culinary Rocker and chef of the stars

"I love his voice."
- Brett Dennen
#1 Folk Artist/Album

“What's clear is that people loved Zach’s stuff. We received emails and message board postings from people who are blown away by his work. His music has touched many lives through this competition and we're all very grateful for his participation. Soul City Cafe is extremely proud of its association with Zach.”
-Ken Calhoun
Soul City Café

“He has released a pair of good albums, and his better-than-average songwriting – confident, witty, and surprisingly kinetic folk-pop… he carries himself with soul and elegance.”
- Ed Bumgardner
Relish Magazine

“I enjoyed listening to the CD … someone will recognize his talent.”
-Dick Clark

“I put local CDs we get in the changer with four national discs to see if the local one stands out… when I heard Zach’s, I had to take (the CD) out and see whose it was. I said ‘Wow, this is really good. Who is this guy?’”
-Bill Gruber
Program Director 91.3 WAPS The Summit

“Zach has the quiet intensity of Elliot Smith.”
-Jeff Niesel
Cleveland Free Times

“The title track (Turquoise Dreams) and “Invisible Man” are songs that make you feel like you are experiencing brilliance on the rise.”
-Mike Farley
Michael J. Media Promotions

“Zach’s not just good for his age; he’s just good.”
-David Martin
Scene Magazine

“Zach… brings his blend of rockin’ folk-pop songs and love on the rocks ballads for an evening of awesome entertainment.”
- Jeff Smith
Relish Magazine

“If there is one musician that I will never have to worry about fitting into the afore-mentioned slug category, it's Zach. Zach is a young 23 yr old singer songwriter from Ohio who has started making some rather impressive waves in the music industry and my guess is after seeing him perform at Rubber Soul Thursday, he and his music might hit Tsunami proportions in the near future. When I wasn't watching Zach move effortlessly from acoustic to electric guitar and from profound and evocative songs to crowd pleasing covers, I was watching the crowd. Not many singers can boast a fan base that ranges in age from 21 to 51, and in that Zach has an edge over most. His youth and effervescent personality draws the younger crowd in as this feels like "their" music and the more mature listeners wish for the same. As one person commented to me, "you can't "act" like you're having that much fun". Indeed it is no act. Zach is truly enjoying himself and it comes through in his music.”
- Kim Thore
Go Triad Magazine

“This young poet puts his mindful, sensitive, yet hip lyrics to catchy, toe-tapping groves that uplifts audiences, while making them think at the same time.”
-Tommy Bruno
Station Manager 91.3 FM WAPS The Summit

"He's electric...enter Zach and everyone lights up" -Tom Kent Ex-Elektra Records
- Various

What I Meant To Say
Zach
Buffalo ZEF Records


Parma-born singer-songwriter Zach is tireless. In the last decade, the Akron native has released nine albums and performed 200+ shows a year. He's played onstage with everyone from Dave Matthews and Neil Young to War and Chicago. And on his latest soulful effort, What I Meant To Say, he delivers his ten best and most organic-sounding tracks yet. He veers away from John Mayeresque territory and stretches out into a distinctive folk-rock/Americana take on pop music. Think Counting Crows with a Freedy Johnston-like sensitivity... and yet, he can get the funk out when he likes.

Zach recorded Say in Atlanta with producer Nick Chawala (Collective Soul, Gym Class Heroes) and the duo seem to have struck a creative chord together. "A Way Through" opens the festivities, with a rumination on Zach losing his father to terminal cancer. You find yourself thinking about the end of the line/ I find myself thinking about it more than I mind... he sings and you feel the disc (like his others) pull the direction of the disc into heartfelt existentialism. "Runaway," "Sky is Falling," "Some Love," "What Are You Afraid Of?" and the set-closer "World on Fire" are among the highlights here -- though "Apple Pie" could (and should) be this summer's funky-crunchy anthem of looking forward and staying real. Let's face it, you're fed up with what's on the radio in your car anyway. Zach's got a lot to offer; you'll definitely enjoy his craft.

Check out Zach's mad touring schedule and his new record by visiting http://www.ZachMusic.net.

From Cool Cleveland Managing Editor Peter Chakerian peterATcoolcleveland.com - Cool Cleveland

College Performances:
Ohio State University (multiple campuses), University of Illinois, University of North Carolina, University of Miami (FLA), Akron University (multiple campuses), Cleveland State University, John Carroll University, Case Western Reserve University, Kent State University, Youngstown State University, Marietta College, Bowling Green University, Ashland University, Ursaline College, Cuyahoga Community College (multiple campuses), Hillsdale College, Wayne College.

Zach’a latest CD, Face With a View, has gotten spins and support on many college and AAA radio stations around the country.

Accolades/Awards:
Best Singer/Songwriter, a 3 time winner of Best Pop Act in the Cleveland Music Festival, 2 Golden Viking Awards, Best Singer/Songwriter Nominee in the Free Times Music Awards 5 times, Best Pop Song (Garageband.com); over 2,500 Spins on WAPS 91.3 The Summit; was a finalist in the national Soul City Café Music Quest; a finalist in the Unisong Song Contest; receives over 150,000 hits and growing per month on the website, and over 83,000 views on his MySpace; named in the TOP 3 Artists spun on WAPS 91.3 The Summit Radio (6 places above the Beatles); performs over 200 shows a year nation-wide, had his song “On Christmas Morning” spun on over 130 radio stations; wrote the jingle/theme song for the nationally syndicated radio show “Into the ‘70’s with Tom Kent;” had music featured in several independent films and an Extreme Home Makeover Documentary.

Shared the Stage:
Farm Aid (Dave Matthews, Neil Young, John Mellencamp), Chicago, Michael Bolton, Rick Springfield, Richard Thompson, Bad Company, Don Dixon, Michael Glabicki (of Rusted Root), John Eddie, Catie Curtis, Steve Poltz, Bo Diddley, Sonny Geraci, Mountain, Maia Sharp, Jen Chapin, The Fixx, Jen Foster (John Lennon Songwriter Winner), Shawn Mullins, America, Buckwheat Zydeco, Michael Stanley, Kyle Vincent, Johnny Ciao, Damien Horne, and more.



- Zachmusic.net