Okara-Lis Coverdale presents a career trajectory that is both intriguing and remarkable. In recent years, this classically trained pianist and composer has skillfully juggled her commitments between crafting soundscapes for local church services in Montreal and gracing the stages of esteemed concert venues worldwide. At the same time, she has delved into the digital music realm, collaborating wiht prominent producers like Tim Hecker, Actress, and Caribou. Consequently, her musical style defies easy classification; it traverses contemporary classical and electronic realms while weaving in elements of jazz and new age influences. Despite its intricate nature, Coverdale’s sound remains inviting: her latest album—her first release in eight years—offers a soothing experiance filled with brief, ethereal pieces that radiate a sense of tranquil joy.
While the track lengths may be brief—2017’s Grafts featured three extended compositions—From Where You Came possesses an expansive essence. The album is crafted from strings, brass instruments, keyboards, synthesizers, and woodwinds; its arrangements are purposefully minimalistic as each piece gently concludes before fading away completely. The excitement peaks when an enchanting motif surfaces—a signature aspect of Coverdale’s artistry. In the standout track “Glints in the Air at Night,” an upbeat melody playfully intertwines with layers of atmospheric synths alongside strings; conversely,”Daze” encapsulates a bittersweet sentiment through its balearic-inspired woodwind embellishments. The most overtly electronic offering on this album is “offload Flip,” which explores deeper sonic territories with its distorted steel drum loop that occasionally strays from rhythm.
The track “Eternity,” however, feels less engaging as it features Coverdale’s own vocals for the first time. While her melancholic voice aligns well with the composition’s hauntingly dark atmosphere, some lyrics come off as overly sentimental rather than evocative—“I’m sorry life is gorgeous.” nevertheless, this does little to detract from the emotional landscape that Coverdale has meticulously constructed throughout this work.
Fresh Releases This Month
In light of several collaborative projects recently unveiled,cole Pulice, an electroacoustic saxophonist hailing from California returns with their inaugural solo project after three years titled Land’s End Everlasting (Leaving Records). This album envelops listeners in warm ambient textures enriched by smooth saxophone melodies culminating in an uplifting nine-minute finale.
another significant release comes from London-based live electronics duo Uh, whose new EP Pleroma(praha), showcases their expertise over slow-burning narratives reminiscent of Laurie Anderson but tailored for club environments.
Across four extended tracks they transition seamlessly from futuristic breakbeats to vibrant synth-pop anchored by Fionnuala Kennedy’s sometiems playful yet frequently ethereal vocals.
Lastly,Tears Maker chant (Ransom Note), represents French duoFroid Dub’s latest offering featuring icy dub rhythms interwoven with glacial synths alongside smoky vocal lines creating an ideal backdrop for late-night adventures.