Calla of Ursa – Animal Reaction (13th Floor Album Review)
Bold, unique, and thematically ambitious Animal Reaction is the latest release from Aotearoa artist Calla of Ursa (Calla Rebecca Knudson-Hollebone). Blending operatic technique, tribal rhythms, acoustic instruments, and cinematic production, the album explores the connections between personal vulnerability and broader struggles, in particular those of women, animals, and the environment.
This is Calla’s first full release under her new name, reflecting a shift in identity and clarity of artistic direction. The name itself is rooted in transformation, referencing the myth of Callisto, who was turned into the Ursa Major constellation. Calla of Ursa presents herself as an artist working across myth, nature, and sound. With the album described as a “call of resistance and reclamation,” Animal Reaction succeeds in delivering its message through an unsettling, dynamic, and emotionally powerful sonic experience.
The opening title track sets the tone with echoing phrasing and a powerful sense of foreboding. From there, each piece builds on a sense of tension and release. Dead Run grows from whispered lines and quiet, spacious keys into a steady march and back again. It’s a restless song, with droning electronics, shivering moments of soprano phrasing, and a rhythm that shifts in tempo. Weather the Storm begins with gentle guitar before darker drum patterns swell and push through, then slow and recede, creating a sense of uncertainty and unease.
Throughout the album, Calla’s classical training is evident in the precision of her performance. However, it is the emotional expression that makes this album stand out. Tracks like Face Me and To Be Sacred use minimal arrangements that draw attention to the voice and sparse, often eerie instrumentation. Even as songs become more layered, there’s a strong sense of restraint and intention.
One of the album’s strengths is its ability to shift tone without losing coherence. Settle the Score introduces jagged, unpredictable elements, while I Was Calling closes the album in a more reflective mode, built around whispered phrases, scattered electronic sounds, and isolated keyboard notes.
The production balances clarity with depth. Electronic textures complement acoustic instruments, and the sound design allows even the most intense tracks to breathe. The use of violin, cello, and textured percussion adds to the album’s physicality, while still leaving space for moments of silence or calm.
Animal Reaction is not a straightforward listen. It asks for attention and rewards those open to mood and message over melody and hooks. It is a powerful exploration of voice, identity, and power, delivered through a distinctive and carefully constructed sonic world.
Calla of Ursa draws from opera, folk, and experimental electronica, and reshapes those influences into entirely her own. This album is grounded in myth, sharpened by modern production, and delivered with emotional clarity. A compelling artistic statement from one of Aotearoa’s most original voices, Animal Reaction is likely to resonate powerfully in live performance, with a national tour now underway ahead of a move overseas – make the most of the opportunity.
John Bradbury
Animal Reaction is released Friday, May 30th. Click here to pre-order.
