Joining us in the studio for our first Indie Rock Hit Parade session of the year is an artist who deftly walks the line between minimalist and maximalist. Back in 2022, Philadelphia-based Palberta member Nina Ryser made two appearances on IRHP: first as part of Kristine Leschper’s band, then as a headline artist in a duo performance. For her latest solo album, Water Giants, Ryser assembled a seven-piece band to capture the new material’s dynamic arrangements, and that septet visited our studio late last year for a thrilling session.
Keyboardist Ryser is once again joined by her partner, guitarist/keyboardist Gabe Adels, along with Water Giants’ co-producer Lucas Knapp on bass and live effects. Drummer Al Resh rounds out the traditional combo, which is further bolstered by the trio of Nino Soberon (cello), Victoria Rose (clarinet), and Eli Kleinsmith (violin). You might recognize some of these folks from assorted Philly bands, namely 2nd Grade, Lizdelise, and @.
Featuring all-new songs (including one that was premiered in our 2022 session), this eclectic mini-concert showcases Ryser’s singular songwriting; from the thrumming “Why Do I Ask” to the haunting “Mercury Soda.”
