Ice Level by Ava Luna (Brooklyn, NY) *
Sporadic and elusive, Ava Luna’s latest release blends two characteristics that make me second guess my linguistic abilities entirely. Ice Level is one of the most challenging records I’ve heard this year, constantly shifting rhythmic patterns and rarely settling into a groove. Ice Level is also one of the most easily enjoyed albums I’ve heard this year, full of hooks and completely infectious; it’s wildly entertaining and fully dynamic. Best in vinyl, the record is available through their Bandcamp. Paradoxical in aesthetic facade, the album also feels like an emotional loop, twisting serious moments into tangibly playful ones only furthering the schizophrenic motif. Dingus
