"Okovi" is Zola Jesus's most visceral and challenging work, a harrowing exploration of trauma and survival. The album showcases a more abrasive and experimental sound, pushing the boundaries of her established electronic and industrial aesthetic.
- "Okovi" was recorded in 2016 in a remote cabin in northern Wisconsin, following a period of intense personal difficulty for Danilova. The album's title, "Okovi," translates from Slovak to "shackles" or "fetters." It charted at number 10 on the Billboard Dance/Electronic Albums chart.
- The album was produced by Danilova herself, with additional production and mixing by Clams Casino and Brad Laner. It marked a departure from some of her previous, more polished releases, embracing a rawer and more cathartic sound.
- The release was accompanied by a music video for the lead single "Exhumed," directed by Simon Chan, which visually complemented the album's themes of darkness and rebirth. The album received critical acclaim for its intensity and artistic maturity.
Zola Jesus is the stage name of singer-songwriter Nika Roza Danilova, who creates gothic, electronic, and industrial-influenced music. She is known for her dramatic vocal performances and dark, atmospheric soundscapes. In 2017, Zola Jesus released "Okovi" at a point where she was solidifying her unique artistic vision within the electronic and gothic music scenes.
Tracklist
