As music lovers, interested parties and humans, we use definition to categorize the sounds we hear. Every once and awhile an artist/ensemble creates a sound so vast and original that all you can say about it is that it “defies categorization,” that fail-safe phrase that more or less means open you ears, open your heart and let the music in. Victoire’s new album Cathedral City deserves such a phrase.
Released this past Tuesday, Cathedral City is the ensemble’s first full-length record for New Amsterdam Records following their 2009 EP A Door Into The Dark; itself the subject of numerous accolades within the contemporary music community. Formed in 2008 by Brooklyn-based composer Missy Mazzoli, the group consists of violinist Olivia De Prato, clarinetist Eileen Mack, keyboardist Lorna Krier and bassist Eleonore Oppenheim.
Victoire is a prime example of the new school of chamber ensembles that are embracing new repertoire and contemporary elements. The stereotyped convention of classical music circles being stale and uptight are gone and Mazzoli and Co. are trying to reach a larger audience than perhaps any contemporary music ensemble has attempted to do.
Victoire’s distinct sound seamlessly blends the post-rock declaration of My Bloody Valentine, Low-era David Bowie and the classical works of Ravel, Debussy and Mahler. Embracing the imaginative over the academic, the album plays on the preconceived notions the listener has to this blend of influences by surprising you around every turn.
Victoire will celebrate the release of Cathedral City with a record release party this Saturday (10/2) at Joe’s Pub on 435 Lafayette Street. Tickets are $14. For more information please visit Victoire’s website.
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