In Filipino, the word Panghalina roughly translates to magnetism. It’s a fitting name for this grouping of three of Australia’s emergent voices in the realms of improvisation, extended technique and unusual song-form. Maria Moles, Bonnie Stewart and Helen Svoboda have each carved out a unique place for themselves in the an- tipodean music landscape and here, on Lava, they create a gravitational orbit around each others practices. This cyclic approach has produced an utterly communal sound language that is equal parts atmospheric, harmonic and exploratory. The crafting of the record revealed the project’s distinctiveness. With an instant resonance, we found ourselves drawn to this project - a canvas that allows various aspects within our artistic practices to flourish. The album encapsulates the dialogue between our spirits and the music, celebrating the alignment of artistic kinship.
"We’ve named the album ‘Lava’, drawing inspiration from the melding of our sounds that resonates with the characteristics of molten rock - its subdued, unhurried motion juxtaposed against its fiery core. Just as molten rock emerges from a terrestrial planet, our collaboration springs forth from a distinctive sonic realm that is ex- clusively our own." - Maria, Bonnie and Helen
Helen Svoboda - double bass, vocals Bonnie Stewart - drum kit, vocals Maria Moles - drum kit, synthesizer
All tracks composed and performed by Panghalina. Recorded by Tim Harvey and Marcel Borrack at Pow Wow Studios, Melbourne/Naarm. Mixed by Tim Harvey.
Mastered by Lawrence English at Negative Space.
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body.