Nainnoh
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
A very innovative artist who now resides in New York City, Nainnoh (pronounced nine-oh) meshes dream-pop, psychedelic stabs and plenty of cultural ideas into this stunning debut album that embraces both organic and electronic textures that often swirl with an adventurous vision.
“Cambium Rings” starts the listen with a hazy, dreamy setting as soothing vocals guide the psychedelic influenced pop fun, and “Colors” follows with strong percussion as expressive singing and an atypical version of indie-rock make a strong impression.
Deeper still, “Threads” brings a haunting quality with plenty of creative song craft as electro-pop ideas meet folk nods, while “Seasons” moves with plenty of melody where intricate guitar work and playful drumming highlight the mood well. “Break Apart”, one of the album standouts, then buzzes with rich textures that possess both beauty and mystery, as Nainnoh’s Eastern Europe roots are present.
Near the end, “Vital Illusions” leads bare and emotive before building into a lush and pop friendly display of ardent skill, and “Velvet Mode” exits the listen with much ambience and cinematic nods that enter a poetic finish to a very well thought out first album.
It’s no surprise that this album took 7 years to make, as its lush, artistic and meticulous presence clearly required much work. A talent who will likely remind you of many legends, ultimately Nainnoh is on a path all her own, and this first effort hints at the exceptional journey it is.
Travels well with: CF Watkins- Babygirl; Sarah Morris- All Mine