Improvised through a series of single take live recordings, Channeled (Live & Improvised at Meraki Cocoon) is the intriguing new EP from Pontea.

By Graeme Smith

A sense of spirituality flows through each track of Channeled. Pontea draws on native instruments to create her soundscape, improvising with them straight from the soul. The result is a sense of immediate connection between her and her listeners whether it be through flute, percussion, guitar or vocalisations.

Each of the record’s six tracks give us a different vibe. Call of the Wind is soothing and ambient while Healing My Senses stirs with its overlapping layers. Depths of Beckoning is stripped-back and soulful. Baran, which means ‘rain’ in Persian, is mournful and delicate with its folksy textures. Sound Doodles is fun and playful. Misbehave appeals to our rebellious nature through a vibrant, percussive final chapter. A cohesive theme of healing runs through them all, inviting us to find our own way.

It can be difficult to make improvised music that means as much to the listener as it does the performer, but Pontea has managed this with her new EP. There’s something about it that appeals to our basic emotions and instincts, and shows us a different way of living.

Channeled was recorded at Meraki Cocoon by Sina Jahanian. It’s out now and you can give it a listen below.