Points Of Departure
Neuma, 2020
9/10
A veteran composer who has reached legendary status at this point, Robert Moran has been behind countless operas and ballets, as well as many recordings in the areas of orchestral, chamber and vocal music.
Here, along with The University of Delaware Symphony Orchestra and soloists and conductor James Allen Anderson, he presents 5 orchestral works that display Moran’s contemporary Romanticism, Baroque and Post-Minimalism prowess.
Moran starts the album with the title track, where a stirring and playful orchestral backdrop illuminates the often building atmosphere where well timed drums and strategic brass make an impression, and “Angels Of Silence” follows with 22 minutes of a low, ominous atmosphere of cinematic appeal that flows with grace and much attention to detail.
At the midpoint, “Frammenti di un’ opera barocca perduta” unfolds with 4 movements that span minimal and mysterious to full and glorious with soaring, operatic vocals, and, eventually, an emotive and heartfelt finish. The final 2 tracks are among the best, and includes the soft, dreamy beauty of “Star Charts and Travel Plans I”, while “Yahrzeit” finishes the listen with deep singing alongside gorgeous strings and calming melodies.
Now in his ‘80s, Moran’s vision and technique hasn’t seemed to wane one bit, as Points Of Departure is on par with the greatness he’s achieved in every decade since the ‘60s.
Travels well with: David Maslanka- The River Of Time; Dimensions Vol. 2- Works For Orchestra