Ode
Populist, 2022
8/10
A Los Angeles vocalist and composer, Odeya Nini is nothing if not atypical, where textural harmony, tonal animation and chamber moments are part of her unparalleled formula.
“Lala” starts the listen with very soothing and powerful vocal acrobatics that quiver with a wordless fascination that emits a stunning range, and “Double Helix” follows with a more layered approach that possesses as much beauty as it does mystery.
On the back half of the listen, “Submerge” drones with a meditative quality, as spiritual-esque singing is very subtle, while “Pacific Wave”, even at under 2 minutes, makes a significant impression with its soulful and emotive gestures of voice manipulation. The title track exits the listen, and it presents both bare and firm fluctuations in tone, and speaks volumes without any actual words.
Other than the minor use of a crystal bowl and electronic drone, this is entirely Nini’s voice and imagination, and it’s a very abstract and fascinating execution of vibration, expression and profound control.
Travels well with: Shujaat Husain/Katayoun Goudarzi- This Pale; The Crossing- Born