Kinesis
Neuma, 2023
8/10
The Galan Trio, i.e. Petros Bouras (piano), Babis Karasavvdis (violin) and Marina Kolovou (cello), spent their lockdown wisely, and it results in this double album of 10 brand new pieces that commissions US based composers, some of which have Greek heritage.
Paul Richards’ “Hairpin Turn” opens the listen with the playful strings and dancing keys making an indelible impression amid the carefully plucked cello, and Martin Gendelman’s “Ictus” follows with a bit of a haunting quality that uses firm piano and strong attention to mood in a cinematic sort of way.
Further on in Disc 1, “Look Of Sky”, by Scott Robbins, displays intimate playing from Bouras alongside the quivering strings, while Ken Steen’s “Attempting To Conjure Joy” leads off Disc 2 with the flowing keys alongside the soaring, uplifting violin playing.
Deeper into the back half, John Levey’s “Ghost Town Sounds” unfolds across 3 movements of meticulous string interaction that’s heartfelt, even dreamy, and “Piano Trio #1- Kinematic Contraption”, by David Martynuik, exits with charming keys making for a dynamic, animated, and focused finish.
A very unique listen that’s artistic, orchestral and chamber tinted, and truly does encapsulate the difficult emotions of the pandemic, Galan Trio’s inimitable vision is expertly captured here.
Travels well with: Stefanie Abderhalden and Kyle Flens- Ilta; Juraj Kojs- Orchid Music