NYX @ The Odeon Theatre
NYX crafts captivating sonic landscapes that transport listeners to immersive and surreal realms.
Photos & review by James Gough
Not many people I've asked had heard of NYX (pronounced nix), but for me, being invited to a media preview earlier this week was enough to pique my curiosity. Little did I know that they would far exceed my expectations.
In 2023, I've been fortunate enough to witness some truly remarkable performances that transcended mere live shows—they became captivating experiences. NYX has firmly secured its place next to these shows.
Introducing NYX, the celestial drone choir inspired by the Goddess of Night. With their unique approach to manipulating and modulating ordinary singing techniques, they embark on a sonic journey, pushing the boundaries of vocal sound. Established in 2017 within the confines of a small north London studio, NYX has captivated both critics and audiences with their haunting melodies.
By seamlessly blending organic and synthetic voices, NYX crafts captivating sonic landscapes that transport listeners to immersive and surreal realms. Their debut single, "Void," created exclusively for photographer Dan Tobin Smith's multi-sensory installation piece of the same name, showcased the choir's mastery. Collaborating with The Experience Machine and Gemfields, NYX's ethereal aural performance reimagined the ancient elemental energy embedded within gemstones, exploring their conceptual connection with imperfections.
As the lights dim, the stage comes alive with six consoles softly illuminated by dim blues and pulsating white light. A solitary voice emerges, soon joined by others, seamlessly intertwining in a breathtaking wave of ethereal beauty that transports you to another realm.
The music evolves, incorporating additional layers of electronic elements, accompanied by the pulsating beat of an EDM rhythm, while the women's voices become increasingly frantic and mesmerizing.
The visual aspect of NYX's performance is equally impressive. Six women, adorned in stunning, almost futuristic dresses, seamlessly orchestrate this immense wall of sound, leaving you in awe. It's an experience that evoked an emotional reaction, as one person I spoke to confessed.
As the final section reaches its climactic crescendo before gradually fading into silence, even as the house lights return, everyone remains in silent contemplation, trying to process their individual experiences. I found myself among them, deeply moved by the sheer artistry of NYX.
