Breath and Air: Heather Nova Trades Drama for Restraint

A hauntingly beautiful return—but does it hold up to Oyster and Siren?

If you listened to the radio in the ‘90s, chances are you heard Heather Nova—whether you realized it or not. Maybe it was the aching vulnerability of "Walk This World" playing on late-night indie radio, or the cinematic sweep of "Heart and Shoulder" soundtracking a moment of teenage introspection. While Britpop and grunge fought for dominance, Nova carved a unique path: blending ethereal folk, poetic storytelling, and just enough edge to stand alongside the decade’s more prominent singer-songwriters like Tori Amos and Sarah McLachlan. She wasn’t a chart-topping star, but she was the kind of artist who stuck with you, her songs lingering long after you heard them.

But what if she had recorded Oyster today? That’s the question hovering over Breath and Air, Nova’s latest album. Instead of revisiting the dynamic rises and falls of her alt-rock years, she strips her sound down even further, leaning entirely into hushed, acoustic introspection. It’s an album built on restraint—inviting you into its world slowly, without demands. The question is: does this approach deepen her emotional impact, or does it leave something missing? Let’s dig in.

---

What Works

A Poetic and Personal Journey

Nova has always been a masterful storyteller, and "Breath and Air" continues that tradition with deeply personal lyrics and vivid imagery. The Arts Desk describes it as "a diary set to music," capturing a sense of reflection and longing that resonates regardless of whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time listener.

Atmospheric and Immersive Soundscapes

Stripping away the alternative rock textures of her past, Nova leans into a softer, acoustic-driven sound. EARMILK calls it "a deeply immersive, almost otherworldly experience," perfect for late-night contemplation or quiet mornings with coffee. Tracks like "Hey Poseidon" and "The Lights of Sicily" are delicate yet transportive, evoking images of vast open skies and rolling waves.

A Soundtrack for Healing

"Breath and Air" feels like an album designed for moments of introspection and healing. Clash Music highlights its soothing nature, stating, "It’s not an album that demands your attention—it earns it, gently pulling you in." If you’re looking for music to escape into, Nova delivers.

---

👉 Unlock the full review to see where the album stumbles and whether it’s truly worth your time.