Symphony No. 2
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
A 4 movement, 30 minute symphony composed by Cliff Eidelman, the listen welcomes the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Jessie Shulman, and Michael McHale to a piece penned during the pandemic, when hope and optimism were on the horizon.
“Movement I” opens with the swirling keys from McHale amid gorgeous string interaction that uses Shulman’s expressive pipes splendidly, and Movement II” follows with the powerful singing which is guided by mysterious instrumentation that’s both precise and flowing.
On the back half, “Movement III” offers a heartfelt and moving 5+ minutes of profound beauty, while “Movement IV” emits a cinematic quality via McHale’s finger acrobatics that suit the booming presence of the orchestra.
Shulma’s mezzo-soprano is captivating here, and McHale’s reputation as one Ireland’s best pianists certainly is appreciated as they illuminate Eidelman’s timeless, classical vision.
Travels well with: Aleksi Glick- World Traveler; Stanley Grill- Against War