End Of Something
Obliquity Records, 2025
9/10
The vocalist Sara Serpa and pianist Matt Mitchell come together for these 15 intimate duo setting pieces that blend both composition and improvisation with much care.
The swift keys and distinct vocal intonation of “News Cycle” opens with much intrigue, and it isn’t long until “Trouvaille” radiates tremendous warmth via the firm keys and charming scatting.
Moving along, the playful progressions of “Les Bergers” are both mesmerizing and exciting, while “Carry You Like A River” embraces chamber nods and no lack of melody that help make this the album’s best.
Close to the end, the emotive “Dead Spirits” allows for Serpa’s striking voice to enthrall us amid Mitchell’s cautious keys, and “Hypo Bathos” exits with strong attention to sparseness, where silence is utilized strategically.
A sonically engaging, profoundly stirring and inimitable harmonic body of work, both Serpa and Mitchell are in fine form for this rich and commanding listen.
Travels well with: Sara Serpa- Encounters & Collisions; Sara Serpa & André Matos- Night Birds