ALBUM REVIEW: Zola Jesus – Arkhon

Sacred Bones Records

Released: 20.06.22

Nika Roza Danilova, the singer, songwriter and producer who creates music as Zola Jesus, wields a voice that has an angelic quality. Layer over the top of the vocal performance some loops and rhythms in the opener Lost, and the listener is cast away on the start of an emotional journey.

This project has brought in some collaborations, such as drummer and percussionist Matt Chamberlain and violist Louise Woodward, that have expanded the musicality of songs. Having said that, this is clearly Danilova’s personal journey that you are following as you go from each soundscape to the next. From the vibrant track Dawn through to the simpler piano composition that is Desire, Arkhon is a series of beautiful compositions.