The Architects
Next Level, 2020
9/10
A Canadian vocalist and composer with her roots in jazz sounds, Kari van der Kloot is also versed in folk music, and together with Lisanne Tremblay, Jamie Reynolds, Gary Wang and Nathan Ellman-Bell she delivers a strong sophomore album with The Architects.
“What I’ll Find” opens the album with keys and violin interacting with both warmth and grace as van der Kloot’s stunning vocals guide the jazz influenced setting, and “Swimming” follows with gentle plucking and bare keys as the expressive singing highlights a very reflective climate.
Halfway through, “‘Ask” builds into a poetic display of heartfelt songwriting, where Wang’s bass adds much to the affair, while “Hide And Seek” approaches folk territory where Ellman-Bell’s strategic drumming is key. “Caution”, a late album highlight, then moves gently, with sublime violin from Tremblay that’s irresistible.
At the end, the title track moves delicately, where cautious piano from Jamie Reynolds flows alongside wordless singing from van der Kloot, and “Holding Pattern” ends the listen with 7 minutes of dynamic chemistry between all the players as rhythm and groove enter the fascinating exit.
Sometimes channeling her inner Joni Mitchell, van der Kloot and company grace us with beautiful layers, well thought song craft and a timelessness that’s both rich and awe inspiring.
Travels well with: Diana Panton- A Cheerful Little Earful; Jill Barber- Metaphora