Trouble
BMOP, 2024
9/10
The Boston Modern Orchestra Project and solist Jennifer Koh bring their inimitable talents to the debut recording of Vijay Iyer’s Orchestral Works, where the 3 in depth selections are fleshed out meticulously.
“Ashunder” starts the listen with lively strings and flowing winds that are both animated and precise, which later on incorporates strategic drumming and calmer moments of beauty.
Into the middle, we’re treated to “Trouble For Violin And Chamber Orchestra”, which leads intimately and allows for Koh’s stirring violin to complement the rich, cinematic, and, later on, bright chamber presence.
The final piece, “Crisis Modes For Percussion And Strings”, has the strings dancing around the unpredictable percussion in an exciting and timeless execution that few others could replicate.
A listen that’s never short on texture, rhythm and fluidity, the conductor, Gil Rose, illuminates Iyer’s musical response to living in times of struggle with incredible detail.
Travels well with: Boston Modern Orchestra Project- Paul Moravec: The Overlook Hotel: The Suite From ‘The Shining’; Boston Modern Orchestra Project- Joan Tower Piano Concerto- Homage To Beethoven