Dreamers
Navona, 2019
8/10
A pianist, composer and educator, Jeffrey Jacob has had his hand in over 120 works, and is consistently regarded as one of the greatest performers of 20th century music. With Dreamers, the artist is inspired by children brought to the United States by their undocumented parents, as Jacob brings a wealth of skill and emotion to the profoundly touching affair.
“Symphony No. 5 (Dreamers)” starts the listen and is divided into 3 parts that shift from twinkling and calm to more tense and abrasive before ending in an ominous, cinematic tone with bells and keys. “Sanctuary I” then complements the affair with emotive and spirited instrumentation, while “Adagietto” finds a chilling place to reside with mystery and beauty thanks to the Moscow Symphony Orchestra.
Near the end, “Epitaph” is an orchestral highlight as Jon Mitchell conducts, and “Final Sanctuary” exits the listen with oboe and electronics steered by Jacob that makes for an impressive and innovative conclusion.
An extremely proficient take on classical, chamber and orchestral sounds, Dreamers again proves why Jacob’s name is synonymous with quality, timeless, moving art.
Travels well with: Sirius Quartet- Playing On The Edge; Arcadian Winds- Windswept