In her most recent track, “Rites and Rituals,” composer Paola Prestini presents a captivating musical journey that showcases her creativity. This tune incorporates strong brass textures with syncopated rhythms for a jazz-infused appeal that grabs you right away. The piece does an excellent job at building up an impending sense of anxiety which makes it so memorable and intense.
Named one of the Top 100 Composers Under 40 by NPR and hailed as a visionary by The New York Times, Prestini has always been pushing boundaries in music. “Rites and Rituals” is part of her album Ancient City with Nelson Patton Duo. It tells the story from wandering through a magical forest into bustling town square — examining life transformations through these rites or ceremonial acts along the way.
Using field samples alongside nature sounds against layered sonic textures creates sharp contrasts throughout Ancient City. This allows the album to explore both mundane and otherworldly elements of existence, while also prompting us all reflect upon how our everyday choices impact each other deeply as humans.
Prestini’s compositions celebrate rituals that bind us together as people across time and cultures. If you’re looking for something profound to listen to which reflects on life’s deeper meanings, try out “Rites and Rituals” by Paola Prestini.
LISTEN TO THE ALBUM:
