Dance Of The Night Sky
Cedille, 2025
9/10
Listen to Dance Of The Night Sky
This 3rd album on the Cedille label from Black Oak Ensemble returns with 8 contemporary works, including 4 world premiere recordings by British women.
The title track opens with the dancing strings emitting much grace and precision in the Shirley E. Thompson piece, and “The Bagpiper’s String Trio”, by Judith Weir, showcases Desirée Ruhstrat’s meticulous violin amid much intimacy.
In the middle, Bulawayo Railway” allows for Aurélien Fort Pederzoli’s viola to shine alongside the striking, cinematic climate thanks to Dobrinka Tabakova’s distinct vision, while “Conjure”, by Freya Waley-Cohen, is highly intimate in its eloquent demeanor that radiates tremendous beauty and poeticism.
Landing close to the end, Grace-Evangeline Mason’s, “Into The Abyss, I Throw Roses” illuminates David Cunliffe’s intricate and stirring cello that tugs on the heartstrings, and “Making Hay” exits with each member displaying their inimitable talents with much care.
An outfit who never disappoints us, Black Oak Ensemble again mesmerize with their unparalleled chamber presence.
Travels well with: Stephen Hough- Piano Concerto, Sonatina & Partita; Cavatina Duo- River Of Fire