What makes Okovi by Zola Jesus notable?

Okovi received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with notable reviews from outlets like Pitchfork praising its emotional depth and sonic complexity. The album's exploration of grief and resilience resonated deeply within the indie music community, positioning Zola Jesus as a significant voice in contemporary dark wave and pop music. When Zola Jesus released Okovi in September 2017, she was transitioning from her previous album Taiga, which had marked a shift towards more accessible pop sounds. Okovi reflects a return to her roots in darker themes, fueled by personal struggles and the loss of loved ones, showcasing her artistic evolution.

Okovi works well if you're into steady pacing with gradual rise, haunting soundscapes for reflection and themes of loss and resilience.

How many songs are on Okovi?

Okovi has 11 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Okovi

Zola Jesus · 2017

39 min · 11 tracks · pop music

A haunting blend of dark wave and pop, merging ethereal vocals with ominous, pulsating soundscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Witness — The track exemplifies Zola Jesus's dynamic vocal range, intertwining powerful lyrics about survival with a lush instrumental backdrop that captures the album's emotional core.
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Exhumed — This song delves into themes of memory and loss, using stark imagery and evocative melodies that highlight the album’s introspective nature.
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Half Life — Here, Zola Jesus combines haunting production with reflective lyrics on the fragility of existence, making it a pivotal moment that encapsulates the album's overarching themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album's dark themes and layered soundscapes create a unique listening experience that rewards multiple plays.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that build intensity with layered instrumentation, while the second half shifts to more subdued arrangements.
Vocals often overlap with instrumental sections, creating a dense atmosphere where melodies are sometimes difficult to distinguish.
Several tracks utilize a slow tempo and minimalistic production, allowing for moments of silence that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing with gradual rise
haunting soundscapes for reflection
themes of loss and resilience
immersive experience through headphones

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer upbeat, fast tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: When Zola Jesus released Okovi in September 2017, she was transitioning from her previous album Taiga, which had marked a shift towards more accessible pop sounds. Okovi reflects a return to her roots in darker themes, fueled by personal struggles and the loss of loved ones, showcasing her artistic evolution.
Stylistic neighbors: Bat for Lashes· FKA twigs· Grimes