Voyageurs
Kickshaw, 2024
9/10
The Ohio composer Rick Sowash completes the works of his 13 part cycle, where clarinet, cello and piano from the Upland Trio flesh out the 3 detailed and careful world-premiere recordings.
“Trio No. 11” begins the listen with Christopher Bade’s animated clarinet guiding the rich and elegant climate that shifts from serene to lively, especially the Tango finish that makes great use of Greg Kostraba’s impressive keys.
Landing in the middle, the flowing intimacy of “Trio No. 12” swirls with melody and makes great use of Josh Aerie’s meticulous cello. The late movement, “Starshadows on the Snow”, is particularly luminous, where the swirling piano emits wonder and awe.
The final piece, “Trio No. 13”, exits with 2 chapters, where the wind, strings and keys interact with sublime and playful gestures that are both charming and timeless.
An intricate affair that embraces neo-classical, romantic, neo-romantic and impressionist ideas, Sowash’s art is delivered precisely by the Upland Trio’s flawless skills.
Travels well with: Anthony McGill- American Stories; Elicio Winds- Convergence