Heavy Pedal Vol. 2
Navona, 2023
8/10
This 2nd installment from the Heavy Pedal series showcases the work of the composers Christopher Hoh, Deon Price, Richard E Brown, and John Rommereim, as Karel Martínek brings his esteemed organ prowess to the 4 involved pieces.
“Chorales for Organ”, by Price, opens the listen with Martínek’s strong attention to detail unfolding with warmth, and “Gesangvoll: Variations on a Theme by Beethoven” follows with a very intimate appeal that emits graceful and poetic techniques in the Rommereim piece.
On the back half, Brown’s “Six Chorale Preludes on Favorite Hymn Tunes” flows with brighter interplay that’s melodic and eloquent in Martínek’s very capable hands, while “Concertino Corona”, by Hoh, enlists the Czech Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra Pardubice for the dynamic and rich finish.
Martínek truly pushes the boundaries of the organ with these powerful, classical pieces that serve to enlighten the listener about the depths of the instrument with much success.
Travels well with: Dimensions Vol. 5; Meira Warshauer- Ocean Calling