A Left Coast
Bridge, 2023
8/10
The baritone Tyler Duncan and inimitable pianist Erika Switzer come together for a heartfelt listen that tips its hat to their home, Vancouver B.C., and its community, geography and artistic spirit via songs penned by friends and colleagues.
Iman Habibi’s “False Morning” opens the listen with Duncan’s inviting pipes alongside Switzer’s elegant keys in the very eloquent delivery, and it isn’t long until Jean Coulthard’s “Three Love Songs” radiates a highly intimate tone of beauty and wonder.
Deeper into the listen, “Love Songs”, by Stephen Chatman, emits gentle melodies thanks to Switzer’s pretty key progressions amid Duncan’s impressive range, while Leslie Uyeda’s “Plato’s Angel” is particularly stirring via the piano manipulation and Duncan’s expressive delivery.
Jeffrey Ryan’s “Everything Already Lost” exits the listen, and showcases playful piano acrobatics alongside the agile singing that finishes the listen with as much intrigue as it began.
A poetic, even romantic body of work, the duo handle the songs with much care, and the attention to detail ensures a memorable experience for the listener.
Travels well with: William Bland- Piano Sonatas, Vol. 2; Yoojung Kim- Scriabin Recital