Wind sculptures is the debut solo LP of intriguing Lithuanian-born and London-based folk singer Johanna Glaza, coming three years after a trio of short-players and EPs.

By Graeme Smith

From the first bars of album opener Space Mermaid, the parallels with similar artists such as Tori Amos, Joanna Newsom and Bjork hit you like a strong breeze. If you are a fan of any of these artists, stop reading now and go buy this album because you will love it.

Parallel’s aside, the strengths of a recording artist in this genre of weird-folk is that they are uniquely unique. Johanna sets herself apart mostly through her charming voice, which carries a distinct accent and has enough power to capture you fully, most evident in track two Coming Home.

Title track Wind Sculptures introduces a taste of the epic poem. In The Shadow balances this with intimacy. Closer Desires brings a pleasing undertow of bass that will freshen you up after being lulled into Glaza’s daydream.

Back to parallels, there is a feeling with this album akin to Joanna Newsom’s early stuff, Walnut and Whales, The Milk-eyed Mender, etc. As Newsom’s career progressed, she’s developed into one of the most stunningly innovative composers of modern music. One suspect that Glaza may well be on this path too based on the quality of this debut. We can’t wait to see where she goes next.

Wind Sculptures by Johanna Glaza is out now.