Flames Will Grow
Albany, 2024
8/10
Allison Dromgold Adams is joined by Andrea Lodge and Liz Bouk for these 7 new works that emit solo, duo and trio settings with eloquence and adventurousness.
The soft and cozy “Rumination And Manifestation” opens with Adams’ poetic tenor sax and Lodge’s emotive keys making for a gripping start via the Keane Southard piece, and Philippe Hurel’s “Opcit” follows with 4 chapters of exploratory sax prowess that’s as unpredictable as it is exciting.
The title track, by Dominick DiOrio, showcases Lodge’s firm keys amid Bouk’s impressive mezzo-soprano, where Adams’ restrained alto sax won’t go unnoticed, while “Dew Of The Moon” is an alto-sax solo moment that’s harmonic and upbeat thanks to Molly Joyce’s vision.
The last 2 tracks don’t disappoint, either. Andrew Sigler’s “Through All Panics” meshes the dense keys with flowing tenor sax in a dizzying album highlight, and Wang Jie’s “Nose On Fire” carries a cinematic quality courtesy of the lively piano and animated sax gestures.
An effort where each track carries its own unique identity, Adams is in excellent company and every moment benefits from the skilled interaction and rich solo bouts.
Travels well with: Christopher Rouse- Concertos; Dallas Chamber Symphony- Chasing Home