-Z1

-Z1 is the debut studio album of the American metal band Kairos. It was released in May 2009.

Recording and Production
After producing a large number of covers and music videos which were uploaded to YouTube, Kairos decided to record their own material. They began recording at the beginning of 2007, but lack of ideas and mixing skills stalled the album until Dawn Bennett joined the band in October. With her help, the band completed the album by the end of 2008 and it was released in May the following year.

Themes
-Z1 focused more on sampling and electronics than later albums, likely due to Dawn's involvement. Lyrically, the album seems to focus on the internet and other modern technologies, which is especially notable in tracks like "Compile," and "Integral Derivative." This album also set the precedent for two covers per album.

This album is the only one to date which features samples of tracks from video games. The intro to "Parasite" and "Cleanse" was taken from the game Parasite Eve, and "Dreamyard" is a slightly remixed version of a track in the game Gauntlet: Dark Legacy.

The name -Z1 comes from the album's original name: Negative Zone. The band felt the name was too simple, so they changed it to -Z1. To explain the name, this was eventually posted on Facebook: "-Z1 = Negative Z1 = Negative Z One = Negative ZOne = Negative Zone"

Reception
-Z1 was well-received by both fans and critics. The album was praised for its technical sound and complexities. One reviewer said "Kairos has made a good foothold in the musical world, but whether they continue walking or lose their balance will depend on the future."

-Z1 was certified Platinum in October 2018.

Track Listing
1. Parasite

2. Compile

3. Brainwave Complex

4. Dastard

5. Oblique

6. The Cat's Pajamas (iwrestledabearonce cover)

7. Dreamyard

8. Nightmare

9. Sidekick

10. Integral Derivative

11. Bwomp (Mushroomhead cover)

12. Cleanse