Some time ago I had reviewed the work of an ethno-folk-jazz band from Kostroma, Russia called Gralitsa, and I found them favorable. I have to say that I find this album at least as favorable, but it sounds like a totally different band. This sound is far more affected by genres like trip-hop, downtempo music, and darkjazz (a touch, anyway). There’s also a slightly ‘free’ element to the music, though it never sounds disjointed.
The track Echo Poor Heart is the cornerstone of the album, showcasing the vocals of Olga “Gralitsa” Rodionova layered on top of a dark, jazz noir soundscape. This manages to gel together nicely. Compliments to the band for this great release.
