With almost nothing revealed about their identity, singer Elitha Treveniel is an enigmatic presence in the contemporary world where true mystery is hard to maintain. As the main songwriter/vocalist for Ianai, this project’s music is equally as cryptic in part as it transcends across multiple spectrums. If there is one thing clear about the album Sunir (Svart Records) however, is that it is a captivating and wonderful experience.
Upon first listen, album opener ‘Savoj Icoil’ shows some familiarity knowing some of Svart Records’ current and previous roster; there is a folk element to the sound which conjures images of woodland wilderness. Beyond this opener, however, Sunir reveals a tremendous range and a subsequent uniqueness throughout. The following ‘Elitha’ offers a more ethereal tone with delicate yet soaring vocals at its forefront; sung in an undefined tongue that adds to the mystique. ‘Manda Navaja’ in comparison is more energetic with pounding yet echoing drums and offers a more brooding atmosphere.
As the album progresses, the roots of the album veer across continents, invoking instrumentation, ambience, and the images they bring from a wide range of locales. Where the aforementioned ‘Savoj Icoil’ for example showed a Scandinavian feel, ‘Vasariah’ in comparison is much more reminiscent of Eastern soundscapes. This is an album that is very explorative not only geographically but simultaneously with its emotional ranges as it demands your full attention. At times contemplative, at others triumphant sounding, culminating in the grandeur of the eight minute-plus ‘Samovela’, which emits a sense of hope and splendour.
Even passing the hour mark of play time, Ianai never feels like an endurance to get through. It is certainly challenging in the sense of fully embracing its depth and layers initially, the ultimate experience is a hypnotic swave of emotion and vivid imagery. This is a totally immersive listen which is as perfectly suited for aimless expeditions as it is for moments of inactivity, one with an unparalleled scope and, ultimately, euphoria.
Buy the album here: https://ianai.bandcamp.com/album/sunir
8 / 10
CHRIS TIPPELL