Lingering
Adhyâropa, 2024
9/10
The violinist Meg Okura and pianist Kevin Hays bring a wealth of talent to these jazz fueled tracks that refrain from overdubs and effects, where much emphasis on tone and texture is appreciated.
“Improvisation No. 1” starts the listen with Hays’ animated keys alongside the gripping strings from Okura’s emotive violin, and “Without Words” follows with careful plucking amid the subtle, sparing keys.
Further along, “Will You Hear My Voice’ showcases the delicate key progressions that are nothing short of sublime and suit Okura’s delicate violin, while “Seven Short Pieces” allows the 7 movements to showcase lovely interaction between the pair, as well as bright and swift gestures towards the end.
“Improvisation No. 2” and the title track exit the listen, where the former offers a dynamic and flowing album highlight, and the latter combines the eloquent keys with stirring strings for a particularly moving finish.
The is the duo’s debut together, and their exploration of haunting moments, percussive grooves and hushed harmonics is nothing short of fascinating.
Travels well with: Aaron Irwin Trio- (after); Euclid Quartet- Breve