Press Quotes



“Sova’s path is exciting and refreshingly unpredictable“ -PopMatters

“Under the name Sova, Sophia Vastek continues to broaden her creative universe, exploring new textures and embracing a more collaborative approach while preserving the intimate sensitivity that defines her work.” -R+

“Vastek’s delicate, yet powerful playing softly lifted audience members up and gently eased them back down to Earth” -Metroland Now

“Vastek’s fingers fly...with passion and profound tenderness” -Second Inversion

“....a skillful, sensitive pianist worth watching” -Steve Smith, Night after Night

“serene strokes and lyrical beauty” -Brooklyn Rail

Praise for Alight!

“Alight! is not so much a reinvention as it is a natural expansion of [Sova’s] already magnetic sound.” -PopMatters

“Contemporary neoclassical with cinematic depth” -R+

“a mesmerizing fusion of neoclassical composition and indie electronic sound design, unfolding with remarkable elegance and restraint.” -Last Day Deaf

“a delicate meeting of piano and moody avant-jazz” -Music Dances When You Sleep

“instantly hypnotic” -The New LoFi

“Sova managed to capture the most authentic essence of the piano sound. Her music is wise and tender, elusive, and at the same time direct.” -Radioaktiv

“a delightfully eclectic fusion of jazz and classical elements that traverses a variety of motifs, while paying meticulous attention to layers, textures, and colors.” -Stationary Travels

“Alight! is a study of contrasts, anchored by Sova’s exquisite keys” -A Closer Listen

Praise for In Our Softening

“demands to be heard...” -The Crack

"Vastek artfully creates a space that is vulnerable, exquisitely performed, and sensitive..." -I Care If You Listen

"Ghostly, delicate, elegant..." -Independent Clauses

"Damaged piano with unexpected past inspires local musician's tender album" -Times Union

"... feels like heaven on earth." -Sun13

“Even if Sophia Subbayya Vastek hadn't had the abundance of heart and decency to reclaim a piano haunted by the spirit of hatred, In Our Softening still would be one of the very best things I've heard all year.” -Night After Night, Steve Smith

“Vastek’s keen exploration of a discarded instrument has yielded hidden beauties and inspired her to create her most compelling music to date.” -Dusted Magazine