You'll no doubt recognize Szjerdene — if not by name, by her ethereal, warm vocals spread across several tracks and collaborations with Bonobo and Lapalux. Her latest EP, Paragon, feels almost like a continuation of those collaborations, building from the same blueprints and establishing more of an independent foothold while putting her name out there. The entire EP is swaddled in warm, plush beats and textures and carried by Szjerdene's rich, expansive vocals.
While the six-track EP is impressive and her vocal abilities evident, the stronger tracks are the three produced by Lapalux, with whom she has audible chemistry. Their "Abode" is a beautiful, ethereal soundscape that slowly blooms, as echoed voices build create a wall of wispy static and percussion while Szjerdene's stunning vocals layer upon themselves until they elicit shivers. Paragon is an alluring piece that definitely warrants close listening.
(Independent)While the six-track EP is impressive and her vocal abilities evident, the stronger tracks are the three produced by Lapalux, with whom she has audible chemistry. Their "Abode" is a beautiful, ethereal soundscape that slowly blooms, as echoed voices build create a wall of wispy static and percussion while Szjerdene's stunning vocals layer upon themselves until they elicit shivers. Paragon is an alluring piece that definitely warrants close listening.
