At only 22 years of age, operatically-trained rural Wisconsinite Nika Roza Danilova has already released 3 albums and several EPs of her darkly-shrouded ethereal rock. "Conatus" unveils some richer, less monochromatic textures, and even some (almost) dance beats into the mix. "Vessel" is a crushing assault of industrial-style percussion alongside Danilova's haunting vocals. "In Your Nature" is both stark and anthemic, like a female-fronted Joy Division. The closer, "Collapse", is a dramatic and moving lament, with Danilova backed only by an electronic drone. Imagine a cross between prime Siouxsie, Kate Bush, and Fever Ray, and you'd still be underestimating the wonder of Zola Jesus. Superb work from an artist who's matured well beyond her years. (Sacred Bones)Zola Jesus website
