Kolo
Diaphonica, 2026
9/10
The Kitka Women’s Vocal Ensemble takes us on a journey via these traditional and newly imagined songs of their Kolo formula that utilizes singing in Bulgarian, Latvian, Estonian, Georgian, Serbian, Ukrainian, Corsican and Lithuanian.
“Loomine (Estonia)” starts the listen with the harmonizing vocals radiating much beauty in their flawless delivery, and “Ligo (Latvia)” follows with the impressive ranges emitting much melody and grace via the timeless and flowing mood.
Closer to the middle, “Lazarki (Bulgaria)” offers a cultured mashing of the diverse voices, while “Veni Sancte Spiritus (Corsica)” blends the powerful pipes into an enlightening and profound display of truly captivating vocals.
“Kakhuri Iavnana (Georgia)” arrives late and emits a soothing ebullience that weaves in and out of gorgeous textures, and “Oj, Jak Ze Bulo Izprezdy Vika (Ukraine)” exits with strong attention to ambience, where the expressive singing is heartfelt and memorable.
The vocalists present include Kelly Atkins, Stacey Barnett, Kristine Barrett, Shira Cion, Charlotte Finegold, Erin Lashnits Herman, Janet Kutulas, Maclovia Quintana, Katya Schoenberg and Talia Young Skeen. Together with subtle cello, viola, harmonium, percussion and Cymbalom they make for a stunning performance that you’ll feel compelled to revisit again and again.
Travels well with: David Lang/The Crossing/Donald Nally- The Sense Of Senses; The Crossing- Born