Editor’s List of Top Releases from 2020

Stunningly unusual vocal music from composer, music researcher and vocalist based in Montréal, Gabriel Dharmoo, collecting works from 2012 to 2019, performed with small and large ensembles using almost completely wordless voice, utterance, guttural sound, swoops and, melodic flights, augmented with physical percussion like stamping and clamping; brilliant and enthralling.

The Montréal collectives and performer orbiting Ambiances Magnetiques consider to surprise and delight. Gabriel Dharmoo was a new name to me in 2020, but his vocal music is incredibly sophisticated and remarkably creative. His depth of interest and inquisitive nature shows through on this album, with a diverse set of ideas that make this album a unique joy.