dis/entanglements
Navona, 2023
8/10
The composer Randy Bauer pens a pair of large-scale piano works that came to life during the pandemic fueled isolation, where the strained and raw emotions present run parallel with that specific period, and it welcomes Clipper Erickson’s skilled piano.
The 4 movements of “Piano Sonato no. 1- Above The River” opens the listen with a distinct rumbling that segues into very meticulous progressions of both firm and light techniques. Deeper portions emit much warm melody, and at the end the rich key manipulation is both dizzying and inviting.
The back half belongs to the 3 chapters of “Piano Sonato no. 2- Brighter Dreams”, where a cinematic aspect unfolds with swift finger acrobatics that are nothing short of mesmerizing. The final installment of this piece, “Flying Higher”, then emits more intimate ideas via the emotive delivery and strong attention to mood.
A body of work that explores elation as well as tension, Erickson’s execution is stunning, and Bauer’s vision captures this difficult time with much insight and poise.
Travels well with: Lock & Key III; Kenneth Thompkins- Compelling Portraits