Endlessness, Nala Sinephro’s second record, revolves around a mesmerizing arpeggio that captivates listeners from start to finish. The London-based composer skillfully manipulates this ascending musical phrase, elongating it, slowing it down, and eventually allowing it to fade into silence. This recurring motif acts as a powerful undercurrent that carries us through the album’s 10 tracks, all aptly titled “Continuum.” While each track bears the same name, they are not mere variations of a single composition. Upon closer inspection, the intricate details within each piece evolve rapidly, offering a dynamic listening experience. Alternatively, when one allows their mind to wander, the 45-minute journey through the album feels akin to gliding across a vast, tranquil lake—consistent yet ever-changing.
The Artist’s Background
At just 28 years old, Nala Sinephro, who was raised on the outskirts of Brussels by a Belgian mother and a father with roots in Martinique and Guadeloupe, seamlessly blends the cool ambiance of ambient music with the powerful currents of jazz. Her emergence as an artist coincided with the gradual dissolution of the boundaries between these genres, a trend that became more apparent during the isolated days of 2021. The release of Floating Points and Pharoah Sanders’ collaborative album, “Promises,” in March of that year marked a significant moment in music history, bringing together an electronic music pioneer and a legendary saxophonist, accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra. Sinephro’s debut album, “Space 1.8,” followed in September, hinting at a new era in jazz music. Recorded in 2018 and 2019, the timing of its release felt almost prophetic, as if she was destined to carry the torch forward. Rarely do two jazz albums, released within months of each other, engage in a dialogue, offering differing perspectives, finding common ground, and envisioning the future of the genre.
Breaking Boundaries
Sinephro’s “Endlessness” transcends the traditional definitions of ambient jazz, introducing a new form of music that thrives at the intersection of these two genres. The seamless integration of elements sets her second album apart from its predecessor, which oscillated between atmospheric and bluesy tones. “Endlessness” exudes a sense of cohesion and elegance, merging musical sensibilities with the fluidity of DNA strands intertwining into a double helix. In doing so, it not only showcases the enduring nature of ambient jazz but also renders the distinction between the two genres obsolete.
Artistic Growth
Over the past five years, Sinephro has honed her skills as a studio wizard and a visionary bandleader. She took on the roles of producer and mixer for every track on “Endlessness,” collaborating with Rick David on the engineering front. Additionally, she meticulously arranged the strings on the album, infusing them with a poignant and judicious touch that complements the overall sound. Sinephro’s musical prowess shines through as she effortlessly switches between harp, piano, and various synths, both modular and traditional, alongside a talented ensemble of musicians from South London’s vibrant jazz scene. The soul of “Endlessness” lies in the energy of these collaborative sessions, where ideas flow freely in real-time.
Conclusion
Nala Sinephro’s “Endlessness” is a testament to her artistic evolution and innovative spirit. By defying genre conventions and embracing a harmonious blend of ambient and jazz influences, she has crafted a musical masterpiece that transcends boundaries and captivates listeners. With each track on the album offering a unique sonic journey, Sinephro invites us to explore the endless possibilities of music and creativity.
FAQs
Q: What inspired Nala Sinephro’s second album, “Endlessness”?
A: “Endlessness” was inspired by the seamless fusion of ambient and jazz elements, creating a unique musical experience that defies traditional genre boundaries.
Q: How has Nala Sinephro evolved as an artist over the years?
A: Over the past five years, Nala Sinephro has grown significantly as a studio producer, mixer, and bandleader, showcasing her musical versatility and creativity.
Q: What sets “Endlessness” apart from Nala Sinephro’s debut album, “Space 1.8”?
A: While “Space 1.8” explored atmospheric and bluesy tones, “Endlessness” offers a more cohesive and elegant musical journey that merges ambient and jazz sensibilities seamlessly.
Credit: pitchfork.com
