Julie Campiche's latest album, Unspoken, is a masterful blend of soundscapes and musical urgency. The Swiss harpist's avant-jazz ensemble weaves together an enchanting sonic tapestry that not only showcases her technical virtuosity but also serves as a powerful platform for social commentary.
The album's title, Unspoken, is aptly descriptive, capturing the essence of Campiche's creative vision – a celebration of women's voices and experiences. The opening track, Anonymous, sets the tone with a haunting quote from Virginia Woolf repeated by a chorus of women's voices in various languages, evoking a sense of solidarity and unity.
Campiche's harp playing is nothing short of mesmerizing, conjuring images of Grisélidis Réal's artistic and physical journey, as well as paying tribute to the weary resolve of migrant workers. The lilting melody of Rosa is a poignant tribute to those who endure, while Maman du Ciel showcases Campiche's innovative use of breath control as a rhythmic pattern.
Unspoken is a jazz album that defies conventions, embracing improvisation and collective free-swing without sacrificing musical cohesion. It is an unaccompanied masterpiece, where the beauty of sound is elevated by Campiche's visionary approach.
Unlike her previous works, Unspoken is the least jazzy of her ventures so far, but it is precisely this subtlety that makes its impact all the more striking. This album is not just a testament to Campiche's skill as a harpist but also a powerful statement on the importance of amplifying women's voices and experiences.
In an era where musical boundaries are constantly being pushed, Julie Campiche's Unspoken stands out as a beacon of hope, innovation, and creativity. This album is an absolute must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the vast expanse of contemporary jazz.
The album's title, Unspoken, is aptly descriptive, capturing the essence of Campiche's creative vision – a celebration of women's voices and experiences. The opening track, Anonymous, sets the tone with a haunting quote from Virginia Woolf repeated by a chorus of women's voices in various languages, evoking a sense of solidarity and unity.
Campiche's harp playing is nothing short of mesmerizing, conjuring images of Grisélidis Réal's artistic and physical journey, as well as paying tribute to the weary resolve of migrant workers. The lilting melody of Rosa is a poignant tribute to those who endure, while Maman du Ciel showcases Campiche's innovative use of breath control as a rhythmic pattern.
Unspoken is a jazz album that defies conventions, embracing improvisation and collective free-swing without sacrificing musical cohesion. It is an unaccompanied masterpiece, where the beauty of sound is elevated by Campiche's visionary approach.
Unlike her previous works, Unspoken is the least jazzy of her ventures so far, but it is precisely this subtlety that makes its impact all the more striking. This album is not just a testament to Campiche's skill as a harpist but also a powerful statement on the importance of amplifying women's voices and experiences.
In an era where musical boundaries are constantly being pushed, Julie Campiche's Unspoken stands out as a beacon of hope, innovation, and creativity. This album is an absolute must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the vast expanse of contemporary jazz.