Clouds

Clouds is a self-released digital EP by American multi-instrumentalist and animator Louie Zong, released on June 28, 2016. Spanning six tracks with a total runtime of just under six minutes, the project is a masterclass in miniature composition, using brevity as a core artistic constraint. Each track is named after a cloud formation, save for the final piece, 'Road to Bill's House', which grounds the atmospheric theme in a cozy, narrative-driven space. Stylistically, the album sits at the intersection of bedroom-produced nu-jazz, ambient synth-pop, and cozy video game music. Built primarily on gentle synthesizer pads, minimalist percussion, and warm acoustic guitar, the album showcases Zong's signature ability to craft highly evocative, whimsical melodies in bite-sized formats. It serves as a key early example of his popular instrumental catalog, which has become a staple for creative focus and the indie animation community.