Jessica Pavone — Resonance in the Air
On Jessica Pavone’s latest album, …Is In the Air (Relative Pitch/Weird Cry Records), the viola becomes a source of sustained tones, natural harmonics, and subtle shifts in texture. Built around open strings and sympathetic resonances, the music moves between sparse melodic ideas and denser layers, with electronics adding depth while retaining the instrument’s intimate character. Pavone works with repetition and small changes in sound, allowing the pieces to develop gradually without forcing a direction. The two closing tracks, featuring Fred Frith and Joe Lally, introduce other voices into the mix, extending the album’s interest in resonance and musical exchange. Some passages remain quite static, but there are enough details to make repeated listening worthwhile. …Is In the Air is a solid addition to Pavone’s solo work, continuing her exploration of the viola in a direct and unassuming way. Seeing her play live is also recommended; she is a musician well worth catching on stage.
Rating: ****
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