What makes Active Child, the project of vocalist Pat Grossi so special, are the unique feelings and imagery that it evokes; it has a simultaneous awareness of both the holy and supernatural as well as the workings of everyday life. Regrettably, I have never stepped foot in an aged cathedral, or viewed classical art first-hand, but I imagine that the music of Active Child resonates with me in the same ways that these other experiences would. This music seems to paint man as something that has the potential for divinity, as much more like fallen angels than animals.
Another wonderful thing about this music is the fascinating juxtaposition of elements; dreamy Vangelis-like synths are paired with sweeping harp-arpeggios. Grossi's angelic hymnal vocals, delivered predominantly in a choir-esque falsetto, are paired with creeping bass thuds. This is as much Blade Runner as it is Michelangelo's David. Even the songs themselves contrast each other in intriguing manners; the almost pop jaunt "Playing House" sporting undertones of R&B, makes haunting hymns such as "Johnny Belinda" that much more salient.
The simultaneous otherness and relevance of this music makes for a truly cathartic and transcendent experience. Do listen.
C.W.
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