Rïcïnn- “Uma” (audio) (premiere)

At a time when little shocks or surprises comes Rïcïnn and the track “Uma” from the forthcoming LP Lïan. There could be no better track to introduce the world to this artist’s astonishingly beautiful album, a record destined to become one of 2016’s best. As a child Rïcïnn created her own language, believing that her musical utterances possessed healing properties. Perhaps it does. Standing on the outside of this nomenclature one can only feel the power of Rïcïnn’s expression and it is never less than deeply moving.

“Uma” comes on like a slow-moving fog that envelopes the listener within the first measures, then refuses to let go. The vocal layers sound both like an invocation of an invocation of a great spirit and, alternately, the exorcism of something sinister. Though the words may not be universal the moods they evoke are: there is sadness, uplift and resolve. Each is kept in perfect balance as the piece arrives, dissolves, reemerges and builds to an impressive climax that resonates long after the final note has sounded.

This is a fusion of the modern and the classical, the light and the dark, sensibilities that come from the avant-garde but can appeal to the most casual listener. It is haunting on its own, without melodramatic gimmicks or because of heavy-handed production. It is elusive but not esoteric, smart but unpretentious.

Supported by a capable band that includes Laurent Lunoir (Öxxö Xööx) on guitar and backing vocals, Rïcïnn that she is ready to emerge from the shadows and becomes recognized as a voice that can speak to the sadness and alienation of the past and today. She can also fill the listener with hope of something better to come.

Joined by drummer Vincent Beaufort, accordion player Marie Leclerc, cellist Guillaume Pruvost and bassist Anthony Miranda, Rïcïnn will leave an indelible mark with this recording as listeners grapple with how to properly express what they’ve heard. Although perhaps the best expression is silent appreciation. What more could be added to such a perfect statement?

Lïan is schedule for release on June 17 from Blood Music and may be preordered.