Unseen
Ecstatic, 2024
8/10
The 4th installment that completes a tetralogy of work, the composer Michael Torke enlists the East Coast Chamber Orchestra and Michael Torke Orchestra for these 9 pieces that are not short on rhythm, melody and grooves.
“No. 1” starts the listen with bright strings and emit plenty of warmth and interact with precise yet playful textures, and “No. 2” continues with the plucked strings and meticulous bass that suits the firm gestures.
Deeper into the listen, the loud violins complement the percussive ideas of the album’s best, “No. 4”, while “No. 5” leads with atmosphere and intimacy before the striking violas cultivate much mood.
Residing near the end, “No. 8” creates a dizzying and dreamy ambience amid the powerful string progressions, and “No. 9 exits with a charming beat that complements the melodic orchestra and animated brass.
The size of the cast of players brought in here really does enhance the experience, where the timbre is quite tremendous via the strings, brass and winds that embrace orchestral and chamber ideas.
Travels well with: Michael Torke- Time; Third Coast Percussion- Between Breaths