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The great unveiling came just before Zola Jesus' headlining set at Mississippi Studios on Jan. 9, when a particularly resourceful stage manager ascended to the balcony and lifted a tarp to reveal a crystalline cardboard pyramid lit from within. The thing looked like it had been damaged in shipping, with the top bent at an odd angle. It looked like a middle school science experiment. Maybe from a distance, in a bigger room, it could have been cool. Alas, the stage prop was only the second-most disappointing part of the evening.
I first saw Zola Jesus in 2009, and she was breathtaking. Nika Danilova is a hell of a talent, and she's lost nothing in regards to her vocal prowess or lyricism. Backed, as always, by Alex DeGroot on synth, the touring group was rounded out by another percussionist and a second synth player who brought some orchestral brass to the proceedings in the form of a trombone. The club was sold out in advance, which speaks of the popularity Zola Jesus has achieved in the last six years. Danilova is a fantastic singer, but she maintains so much control of her voice that it's almost a detriment. The only time she truly comes unhinged is when she dances, spazzing and cavorting and thrashing her hair like an awkward alien, running up to the balcony and back with her wireless mic.
She performed her new album, Taiga, in its entirety, with only a handful of her older, gothier, better tunes peppered in. I get that this is a tour for a new record. And I understand that artists progress and leave old material and styles behind. Unfortunately, while Nika's talent and popularity soars, her style has become increasingly banal.
For me, the show was absolutely stolen by the main support act, a duo called Deradoorian. These women built loops with live instruments, using stand-up percussion, analog synth, bass guitar, and their amazing voices. It was minimalist, avant-garde and rocking. At various points, the group recalled Silver Apples, Gang Gang Dance and Kate Bush. I'm looking forward to their Portland return, and for them playing a longer set.
All photos by Rachelle Hacmac.
WWeek 2015