Woven In Time
Navona, 2021
8/10
A very diverse listen that showcases pieces from Richard E Brown, Scott Brickman, Marilynn Bliss, Jay Anthony Gach, and Joseph T Spaniola, Woven In Time documents contemporary orchestral works performed by the Janáček Philharmonic Orchestra, Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra, and Brno Philharmonic.
“Concerto For Clarinet And Chamber Orchestra” starts the listen with the gliding, tense strings meeting Karel Dohnal’s precisely played clarinet at a very adventurous place in its very agile 25+ minutes, and “Symphony No. 5” follows with an initially firm burst of chamber ideas that segues into unpredictable, even mysterious sounds from the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra.
In the middle, “Veils”, by Bliss, unfolds with a strategic cinematic quality amid the dynamic instrumentation, while “Gangsta‘ Noir” emits bursts of dramatic energy and booming percussion as the piece rises and falls with meticulous and mature interaction.
“Thomas Jefferson: Life Lines” exits the listen and offers a dreamy 3 chapters with the Brno Philharmonic and the voices of Markéta Cukrová, Jakub Kubín, Pavel Valenta and Kornél Mikecz working together for the very creative finish.
A captivating listen that bridges the past with current ideas, Woven In Time examines cultural themes, and that, combined with the variety of the compositions, makes for an engaging orchestral outing.
Travels well with: Trio Casals- Moto Eterno; Mark John McEncroe- Fanfare Suite