Ambiguous Traces
Albany, 2022
9/10
The Pan Pacific Ensemble move forward with their works by American and Asian composers, and this time we are treated to pieces by Naarong Prangcharoen, Kenji Bunch, Ho Kwen Austin Yip, Kee Yong Chong, David Jarvis, and Chen Yi.
The title track opens with much atmosphere, as soothing winds and a dreamy climate flow with much grace, and “Bliss Point” follows with an upbeat delivery of dancing song craft that’s light and airy.
In the middle, “Labyrinth II” emits a bit of mystery and much beauty in its cinematic nature that’s also quite playful, while “The Wynwood Project” unfolds across 5 movements of largely soft instrumentation that uses brass strategically amid the gentle winds.
“Woodwind Quintet No. 3: Suite From China West” exits the listen, and it’s full of intimate gestures that occasionally pause for frisky and lively bouts of exciting chamber sounds.
The Pan Pacific Ensemble consists of Sophia Tegart (flute), Keri E. McCarthy (oboe), Shannon Scott (clarinet), Martin D. King (horn) and Michael Garza (bassoon), and this body of work continues their globally praised chamber ideas with much attention to detail that’s just so very appreciated.
Travels well with: Various Artists- Trigger; Eric Schorr- New York Pretending To Be Paris