Ida February 28, 2009

Ida, a New York City band known for their quiet, even pastoral, take on urban life, has moved to the woods. Now, it seems, the woods have moved into their music. Strange buzzing sounds, incandescent acoustic drones, dissonant tone clusters of unknown origin, the distant communications of birds, and unobstructed views of the night sky suffuse the gently strummed guitars, sparse piano notes, and poignant personal narratives of Daniel Littleton, Elizabeth Mitchell, and Karla Schickele.

The result is Lovers Prayers, Ida's strongest album to date. Ida's interest in sparseness, minimalism, and sound worlds is in abundance on Lovers Prayers, but these concerns are never at odds with their pop instincts. Ida's music has evolved into something generous and beautiful, a synthesis of folk, rock, blues, and world music that feels singularly their own. They have made a record that is uncompromising, complex, and emotionally resonant, with enough sonic detail and depth to reward repeated listening.

Official Website: http://www.joespub.com/component/option,com_shows/task,view/Itemid,40/id,3702