Things Lived And Dreamt
Analekta, 2023
8/10
Listen to Things Lived And Dreamt
The superb pianist Francine Kay brings us Czech music on this very well thought listen, where the work of Dvořák, Smetana, Janáček, Suk, and the rarely-heard Czech woman Vítězslava Kaprálová are performed flawlessly.
“Sonata 1.X. 1905” opens the listen with the firm, rumbling keys emitting much power in its swirling energy that can retreat to plenty of calm, pretty moments, and “Jaro (Printemps/Spring), Op. 22a” follows with a stirring intimacy that shows much restraint in Kay’s sublime playing.
In the middle, “Humoresques” emits a very meticulous appeal that’s focused much on mood, while “Zivotem a snem” spans 10 chapters that are often firm and swift, but are also capable of bare beauty. The final piece, “Czech Dances1, JB 1: 107”, is quite adventurous, and is indeed able to get your body moving with its animated progressions and unparalleled attention to detail.
This is Kay’s 4th recording on the Analekta label, and her esteemed body of work has gained her a JUNO Nomination and worldwide appreciation. A colorful, rich and exciting body of work, Things Lived And Dreamt is a real treat for fans of the piano.
Travels well with: Mark Abel- Spectrum; Orli Shaham- Complete Piano Sonatas Vol. 2 & 3