Calliope Dreaming by Evoletah: Album Review

by Damien Reid June 22, 2023

June 22, 2023

Calliope Dreaming by Evoletah: Album Review

Evoletah are a superb musical act taking an art-jazz approach. Their playstyle is pretty unique! Traditional norms of the genre blend with sizzling vocal passages. Altogether, it’s a masterful technique of harmony that is both catchy and calming to hear. Most of the instruments used come in the form of deep basslines, experimental percussions, strings, and a bit of guitar too! Thus, with that said, Evoletah’s album “Calliope Dreaming” comes to light, and it’s an evocative collection of melodies that’ll keep you in good spirits.

We start our musical journey with the magic of “The fool & the candle.” It’s a sensational piece polished with a narrative that’ll keep you hooked. The vocal parts remind you of 2000s alternative hits, while the instrumentals are a soulful blend of acid jazz and noir music. A groovy bass plays out while strings and a piano keep it company. The chemistry is elegant and sophisticated. There’s more where that came from the album’s title track “Calliope dreaming” and also the piece “Ain’t that peculiar.” The latter one has a terrific piano arrangement that pulls on your heartstrings. This is primarily because of the minor chord structure that instills equal amounts of drama and tragedy into the mix. Hence, it’s a thrilling sentiment to consume and remember all the while.

“In reflection” is undoubtedly my favorite of the album. Evoletah manages to create a melodic aura full of magic and ecstasy. With the bongo-like percussions, and enchanting strings.