Otracami - “Fold”

New York-based singer-songwriter Camila Ortiz, aka Otracami, has reached deeply into the ethereal folk realm and crafted the gem, “Fold,” a song that explores the ways in which we contort ourselves to fit within the lives of others.

Musically, there is a distinct comparison to be drawn to the raw and cinematic work of both Novo Amor and early Bon Iver. The guitar is wonderfully captured, but there is a distant ambience that draws us in completely, instantly piquing our interest and causing us to fully commit ourselves to the listening experience. Needless to say, Otracami won us over as fans almost immediately.

As a gentle, percussive rhythm arrives, it brings along with it Otracami’s vocal performance, which is reasonably barebones, sounding as though she’s forgone any dramatic production (just the way we like it). Her voice is slightly reminiscent of Tomberlin and we marvel at the way “Fold” is checking off so many of our folksy boxes at once.

The song displays some great moments of dynamic shifting, often as elements are removed from the arrangement. In the empty spaces, Otracami’s voice meanders through a magnificent melody before the instruments return. The entire track is a showcase of elegant ear candy, yet she still finds room for some delicate harmonies, which completely earn “Fold” our seal of approval.

We are anticipating a few more singles before Otracami releases her LP, touching the stove coil. Until then, carve out about three minutes of your life so you can enjoy “Fold.”

-HD