Sylvaine’s fourth studio album, “Nova”, features Kathrine Shepard as a solo performer with the help of Dorian Mansiaux as a session drummer, as well as special guests Scottish violinist Lambert Segura (SAOR) and Nostarion (aka Patrik Urban) on cello.
Sylvaine’s vocals alternate between angelic and devilish, creating a unique one-woman beauty and beast effect. The song “I Close My Eyes so I Can See” is the perfect example of this. Her voice is enchanting, crafting a hypnotic blend of heavenly and hellish tones that captivates the listeners. Furthermore, Sylvaine showcases her distinct talent on songs such as the dreamy closer “Everything Must Come to an End”, where she sounds almost angelic. The same can be said for the opener “Nova” and the bonus track “Dissolution”, both of which have an atmospheric and dreamy vibe. “Mono No Aware” contains more intense black metal elements, as well as atmospheric moments and clean vocals at times. “Nowhere, Still Somewhere” has a post-metal ambient vibe that complements her wonderful vocals. The grandiose “Fortapt”, which lasts about 12 minutes, blends atmospheric, post-metal, post-rock, blakcgaze, black metal and ethereal elements… creating a captivating and unique soundscape.
The album is introspective and esoteric, exploring themes of life and the ephemeral nature of all things. It delves deep into the human experience, providing a thought-provoking and poignant reflection on the impermanence of life. The artwork depicts Sylvaine naked in a fetal position that shines, presumably to represent the light in the dark and the triumph of birth over the gloom of loss.
Musically, “Nova” is lush and ambient, blending blakcgaze elements with atmospheric soundscapes to create a dreamlike ambiance. The synths create a warm, ambient backdrop for the strings, while the guitars give texture and melodic counterpoint. The result is an expressive and emotive soundscape ranging from tranquil and soothing to dark and intense. Sylvaine has a unique and personal way of blending all of these styles and making them her own. I’d say that this album is a successful amalgamation of different music styles that create a unique atmosphere on the whole. “Nova” is probably Sylvaine’s best work to date.
