Vancouver-based artist Theda Phoenix crafts a heady, atmospheric sound fit for meditation on new album Crystal Calm, Vol. 2. The singing bowl performing artist and singer/songwriter emphasizes texture and delicately evolving structures throughout, weaving water trickles, singing bowl resonance, and haunting vocals for memorable effect.
“Emerging” is especially hypnotic, melding wordless vocal soaring with the sound of rain and singing bowl; atmospheric visions arise of a deep meditative session, in a spacious temple as rain falls outside. “Mama Water” continues the trickling water ambience, resembling now a stream and a sense of culminating calmness — as one element meets its tranquil resting place, and flows naturally into its next state of being.
A haunting resonance also stirs on “Crystal Currents,” where ghostly vocal calmness immerses within more subtle textural backing shimmers. “Floating Bliss” follows, conveying a sort of wordless serenity that fits its namesake. Moving further and spanning over 15 minutes, epic finale “Surrender” balances aquatic sounds, gentle chiming, and wordless vocal haunts with impactful textural subtleties for a satiating close to this lingering, spine-tingling album from Theda Phoenix.
“I believe in the transformative power of music to transcend boundaries and touch the soul,” the artist explains. “With this music, I aspire to create a space for introspection, connection, and healing.”
They continue: “‘Crystal Calm Vol 2’ isn’t just music, it’s a sonic gateway into a deep inner journey, a multi-layered creation utilizing unique binaural recording technology. Crafted with hours of attention to the subtle nuances of each sound. It guides you on a journey into self and the place where you feel a sense of oneness with all of life.”
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“Emerging” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
