Although there are still people who find amusing to write sexist nonsense about women (see below), Nika is a true artist. That is: It is a songwriter, lyricist and producer of their records.
The previous album, "Stridulum" was excellent. Now is "conatus" their artistic development in other ways continues.
The music is of course deeply electronically, although this time new, played by musicians elements are added, such as the threat of strings, double bass and drums. The rhythms themselves act more agile than before and sometimes they walk towards Techno (Ixode) and even Dubstep (Shivers), while the prevailing style of the electric-ballad.
The quality of the songs is excellent. There is nothing wrong with these forty minutes. Not wrong, the singing, influenced by opera and dramatic but always full of passion. Nikas voice flows under the skin and conquered our souls. They often sound very "black" with gospel strikes (one remembers Jocelyn Brown) and, in some pieces, soulful like a female version of the best Bruce Springsteen.
And wrong are not the lyrics. The choice of words is meticulous and every song uses compelling allegories; Surely it is worth repeating these texts to read (and sing). Disease and alienation are recurring themes, although the board always acts cathartic and never merely desperate. A strong survival instinct behind the art of Zola Jesus and opens way to the rescue.
"Conatus" is thus a suggestive work. Elegant and dangerous at the same rate, there will soon be an encouraging companion of our journey into reality.
Key tracks: hikikomori, Shivers, Avalanche, Skin.
