Vocal Power

Way back in 2005, the Chicago Reader called Norwegian singer Maja Ratkje "one of the most astonishing singers on the planet." That statement doesn't nearly account for just how experimental Ratkje really is. She uses electronics to create strange, other-worldly soundscapes and then adds her own assortment of grunts and growls to the mix. A song like "Wintergarden" sounds like it could be on the soundtrack to a horror movie as Ratjke lets loose some bloodcurdling moans. She makes her Cleveland debut tonight at 7:30 at the Transformer Station in Ohio City. Tickets are $20. (Niesel)