New York, USA-based composer Paola Prestini has just hit my radar thanks to her team up with the instrumental duo Nelson Patton and their track Rites and Rituals.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Marco Valentin

Paola is known for the scale of her projects, creating the world’s largest communal VR opera, composing for PBS and representing women at the United Nations, but this one feels more down to earth. Though the artistry is clearly on display, there’s something familiar and relatable about Rites and Rituals. It’s a very human experience.

Dave Nelson, Marlon Patton and Paola have taken quite an unconventional approach to their collaboration. Rites and Rituals is a piece that brings together the urban and the natural, making use of field samples to create an ambience that brings their tale of modern day culture to life.

Rites and Rituals features on the trio’s new album Ancient City which is also out now. You can give the track a listen below.