Yellowbird Vinyl & CDs

Review: Ysla, the latest album by Swiss-Polish-Japanese singer, composer and improviser Yumi Ito, is a breathtaking journey into the depths of personal storytelling and expansive, genre-blending soundscapes. Moving between art-pop, jazz and neoclassical, the album dives into themes of solitude, renewal and the end of worlds, beautifully woven with nature, psychology and societal reflections. For the first time, Ito recorded all piano parts herself, layering her vocals with remarkable grace over intricate compositions. In these seven original pieces, Ito has refined her vocal improvisation into a universal language that resonates effortlessly, transcending linguistic borders. Her voice glides seamlessly through varying rhythms and keys. Supporting her are Kuba Dworak on double bass and Iago Fernandez on drums, creating a fluid, versatile rhythm section that explores vast musical terrains. With contributions from guests like Chris Hyson on synths and Szymon Mika on guitar, Ysla feels both intimate and grand. Recorded with Daniel Dettwiler at Studio Idee und Klang on the legendary mixing console used by Queen and Supertramp, the album is a resonant island of artistryiundaunted, timeless and surrounded by vast oceans of sound. Ysla is Ito's boldest, most profound work yet.