There is a moment on Vensaire’s self-titled EP where a heretofore background member of the band shines bright as beacon, illuminated in a soft but vibrant spotlight that causes you to think “Who is that and where can I hear more?”
That moment is “They Are Growing” where Vensaire’s unique brand of experimental world/folk inspired chamber pop with occasionally electronic dalliances becomes something totally other. It’s Renata Zeiguer’s moment, her voice like siren song and no doubt aided in its sorcery by creamy, atmospheric textures. Perhaps the most surprising thing about singer/multi-instrumentalist Renata Zeiguer is that while playing with two of the most innovative Brooklyn bands going in Vensaire and Landlady that she has been able to allude notice; contributing majorly to the ensemble sound while drawing very little attention her way. Hopefully that changes with her personal musical project Cantina.
Taking its cues from “They Are Growing”, Cantina relishes the strengths of Zeiguer’s enchanting light vocals in their dreamy arrangements. Zeigeur aims for the tropics but reaches the stars as Cantina manages to transcend the beachy vibe of their tropical inspiration and land somewhere far more striking. Zeiguer’s arrangements are wide and spacious, allowing the vocals full range of moment as they flitter and glide; Birkin-esque in their coquetteish coo and yet, a part of Zeiguer’s distinct textural palette themselves.
Fittingly, many of Landlady’s members (including its mastermind Adam Schatz) had a hand in helping Zeiguer’s vision come to life. Their touch is a light one however, allowing Zeiguer’s resplendent dream pop to stand mostly on her own creative merits. The result is songs that are captivatingly sparse, subtly arranged, and beguiling in its simplicity. It’s a winning combination that should serve Cantina very well. Cantina’s 7 song Horizons EP is out/available for stream/download via Bandcamp.
