To be able to express one’s raw and unfiltered emotions through music is a talent that is worthy of commendation. And to do so with such intensity and power is a feat that truly defines the nature of music in its purest form.

Ruth Goller‘s latest album, SKYLLUMINA, belongs in the list of works that “truly speak music”. Filled to the brim with creativity, spontaneousness, and an excellent command of percussion and other musical layers, SKYLLUMINA is an album that is a treat to listen to from start to finish. A follow-up to her album SKYLLA, released in 2021, SKYLLUMINA is a collection of haunting tracks borne out of Goller’s daring exploration of an entirely new sonic landscape.

Experimenting with different kinds of instruments and sound-producing objects, the result of Goller’s curiosity is an interesting work of art that bears unorthodox elements expertly directed into beautiful compositions that are worthy of being played on repeat.

Goller’s decision to have different drummers for each of the album’s songs is astounding and risky. However, a clear-cut cohesion between the tracks can still be heard, thanks to Goller’s vocal prowess and her exquisite chops on the bass guitar. Playing together with a different percussionist for the songs in the album seems to have worked out well for Goller. Each song carries an emotional weight just as intense as the previous one.

Similarly, the first track of the album, “Below My Skin”, is, without a doubt, an excellent kickstarter to SKYLLUMINA. With its raw percussions performed by Tom Skinner, booming bass licks, and Goller’s enchanting vocals to top it all off, the album successfully acclimates listeners with its haunting yet alluring atmosphere.

“Next Time I Keep My Hands Down”, in particular, is an enchanting track that perfectly showcases the vocal flexibility of Ruth Goller and how her mystifying vocals complement well together with sparse percussive rhythms created by Jim Hart on the drums and vibraphone and a booming bass that lulls listeners into a state of euphoria.

Similarly, “From Breaks To Shreds It’s A Short Path” is another track that beautifully highlights the vocal dexterity of Goller. The minimalist flavour of this track packs a punch in the feels. One can hear the density of the emotional weight of this song from the get-go, especially with the powerful performance of Sebastian Rochford as the drummer for this track.

On the flip side, tracks such as “How To Be Free From It” unleash a flurry of beats and rhythms that breathe life into the song. The versatility of Emanuele Maniscalco as the drummer for this song is on full display — elevating the track into transcendental territory.

“She Was My Own, She Was Myself” is a song in the album that deserves recognition. Besides the expertise shown by the gifted musician and instrument maker Bex Burch, who plays the sanza and limba on this song, high praise also goes to Goller’s mastery of her craft and the extensive vocal range she’s displayed, especially on this track. Elements of this song, in particular, such as the enticing melodies and the synchronized harmonies, perfectly encapsulate Goller’s range as a musician and her knack for improvisation.

SKYLLUMINA is packed with intense feelings and emotions in each song. The album is a unique, complex universe of ominous melodies, baffling patterns, and rhythms.

SKYLLUMINA keeps listeners on edge throughout the entirety of the album. And what an amazing ride it truly is from start to finish.