A Cup Of Sins
Redshift, 2022
8/10
The debut album from the Iranian-Canadian Parisa Sabet, the eclectic affair welcomes strings, vocals, winds and electric guitar to a very distinct contemporary adventure.
“Shurangiz” opens the listen with Laurel Swinden’s airy flute and swift strings wrapping around the flowing melodies, and “Dance In Your Blood” follows with 21st century expressionism that showcases Jacqueline Woodley’s sublime and soaring pipes.
Moving toward the middle, “Geyrani” emits a soothing quality via the carefully manipulated solo violin of Matthias McIntire, while “Maku” benefits much from vivid storytelling by way of layered vocals that range from being whispered to shouted.
Advancing towards the end, the dreamy flute of “The Seville Orange Tree” is punctuated by a very mysterious ambience, and the title track exits with clarinet, guitar, piano, viola and cello in a very powerful and literate finish.
Sabet has dabbled in solo works as well as large ensembles, films and choral works. A Cup Of Sins resides somewhere in the area of opera and chamber territory, and it’s both minimal and lush, and quite unpredictable in its creative nature.
Travels well with: Joseph Petric- Seen; Instruments Of Happiness- Slow, Quiet Music In Search Of Electric Happiness