Reviews: Raven

Recording acoustic music is simultaneously simple and incredibly complicated. Stykos’ technical expertise here has resulted in an amazing listening experience. The record swirls with a depth and warmth that makes it stand out from the myriad acoustic releases in Vermont each year. It makes me want to duct-tape my old Dynaco A-25 speakers to my head so I can hear every snap and ring. In more ways than one, Raven is a treat for the ears. ” - Robert Resnik, Seven Days

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Stykos’ music is introspective and thoughtful. Her words seem to bubble up from the depth of her psyche, ideas and emotions from an underground or subconscious place that may be a very painful one. This is an artist not afraid to put her life story out there for others to follow...If the “Raven” is Stykos’ totem, then it suits her well. “The Raven’s” medicine is magic and to some this bird represents the great mystery of the void. On this 14-song album Kristina Stykos is certainly exploring many aspects of the human subconscious and succeeds very well.” - Art Edelstein, Times Argus

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It’s not often that the poetry of words can be so well matched with its counterpart in sound and no one does this better than producer and musician Kristina Stycos. On her latest CD "Raven" there are some hard edges to decipher but it is the human spirit’s will to embrace the journey that triumphs on this CD. Windham Hill Records recording artist and Grammy nominated pianist/producer Phillip Aaberg joins Kristina on "Raven", and together they forge their own path in the new Americana landscape.” - Spencer Lewis, No Depression

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The raven of her song-cycle has not found its mate yet, as announced on the first track, yet it is equally determined to fly. In fact, the way Stykos approaches her notes, with an often subtle vibrato, reminds one of a bird on the uptake of flight. Questionable and querulous as any wind may be, her songs deftly navigate the terrain of the lone wanderer on the long journey, traversing reverent places long abandoned and potential places to revere. ” - Dylan Waller, The Montpelier Bridge