In the heart of Tio’tia:ke/Montreal, a city celebrated for its vibrant jazz and experimental music scenes, Allison Burik emerges as a compelling figure. With their debut solo album, “Realm,” set for release on February 02, 2024, Burik not only solidifies her place in the city’s musical tapestry but also pushes the boundaries of genre and storytelling through sound.
Known for their versatility and innovative approach, Allison Burik has been an integral part of several acclaimed music groups, including Bellbird and Umbrella Pine. Their collaborations with notable musicians like Mali Obomsawin have earned them recognition in the world of jazz and beyond. “Realm” is the culmination of their vast experiences, a project that melds their skills as a musician and composers with their deep interest in folklore and history.
“Realm”: A Deep Dive into Folklore and History
The album is a rich tapestry of influences and sounds, drawing inspiration from women and non-binary characters in folktales, lore, and real-world history. Burik uses their talents on the alto sax, bass clarinet, and vocals, along with field recordings, electronic treatments, and guitar work (in collaboration with Magdalena Abrego of Umbrella Pine), to create an atmospheric and immersive listening experience.
Track-by-Track: A Sonic Journey
- Be the Dragon: The album opens with a fierce solo duet, showcasing Burik’s prowess on the saxophone and their compelling vocal abilities. This track sets the tone for the album – bold, experimental, and unafraid to venture into new territories.
- As the Norns Weave: Inspired by Norse mythology, this piece is a sonic representation of the Norns weaving the fate of gods and humans. It’s a complex interplay of woodwinds and voice, symbolizing the interwoven nature of life and destiny.
- Solstice I (Dreams and Memories): A haunting exploration of the subconscious, this track delves into the realms of dreams and memories, creating an atmosphere of introspection and mystery with its fluttering woodwinds and cavernous reverberations.
- Seal Folk: Drawing from the selkie myth, “Seal Folk” is a mesmerizing composition that blurs the lines between human and nature. The incorporation of natural sounds like waves and pebbles adds a layer of authenticity and connection to folklore.
- Solstice II (Cycles): A continuation of the dark, resonant themes from “Solstice I,” this piece reflects on the cyclical nature of existence, embracing the universal dance of creation and destruction.
- Heiemo og Nykkjen: Paying homage to Burik’s Nordic heritage, this track is a mystical arrangement of an ancient Norwegian song. The blend of reeds, voice, and digital effects creates a haunting and otherworldly ambiance.
- Birka 581: Inspired by a historical discovery in Birka, Sweden, this piece narrates the story of a Viking warrior’s grave, challenging traditional gender narratives and celebrating the strength of women in history.
- Solstice III (The Promise): Marking a shift from its predecessors, this track focuses on the purity of acoustic guitar and vocals, offering a moment of clarity and promise amidst the complex tapestry of the album.
- Fragment 94: The album concludes with a pastoral symphony, where Burik’s multi-layered instrumentation and vocals create a sense of peace and closure, inviting listeners to explore the album’s depths again.
The album’s thematic focus on folklore and real-world history is particularly noteworthy. By highlighting women and non-binary characters, Burik challenges the often male-dominated narratives of these genres. Their use of field recordings, especially those captured during their residency in Skagaströnd, Iceland, adds an authentic layer to the storytelling, grounding the mythical elements in real-world experiences.
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