Our Stories
Navona, 2023
8/10
A listen that showcases the talents of the cellist Thomas Mesa and pianist Michelle Cann, Our Stories highlights composers who are underexposed in the area of classical music.
Andrea Casarrubios’ “Silbo for Cello and Piano” begins the listen with the strings and keys interacting with both energy and intimacy, where the pair illustrate a strong emotive chemistry, and “Nerv! Toccata for Cello and Piano” has the piano quivering amid the precisely plucked cello that carries an animated demeanor in the Sebastian Quesada piece.
Kevin Day’s “Cello Sonata” lands in the middle, and unfolds across 3 chapters of upbeat and rich playing, as well as calm, sublime beauty that’s highly melodic, while “Tres Campanas de Rere (Three Bells from Rere)”, by Mario Oyanadel, shows much restraint between the duo, as poetic keys and stirring strings meet at a very thoughtful and intimate moment.
The final selection, Carlos Carrillo’s “Will the Quiet Times Come”, then exits with a heartfelt and poetic meshing of twinkling keys and mature cello playing.
Thematically, the topics of human connection, fear from the media and the unwavering change and loss we all experience are touched upon, and it’s all delivered with care and unparalleled skill.
Travels well with: David Harris- You Loved Me Then; Laurence Sherr- Fugitive Footsteps