Murmuration
Neuma, 2025
9/10
The New York sextet Percussia return with more of their classical, modern, popular, and global music ideas that surround these diverse selections.
Bill Clark’s “Moiré” opens with the playful vibes emitting much energy alongside Susan Jolles’ lovely harp playing, and “Epesjimos”, by Carlo Nicolau, allows for Margaret Lancaster’s dreamy flute to captivate us in the lush and warm mood.
The title track, by Alexis Lamb, then swirls with Ljova’s graceful strings via the charming percussion and strong attention to detail, while “On the Street Where I Live” unfolds across 4 movements that can be hypnotic, even eerie, as well as colorful via the sophisticated strings, wind and percussion in the Ljova piece.
Near the end, Matthew Welch’s “Variasi Ombak” is one of the brighter moments that radiates melody and an animated interaction between the players, and “Starfish at Pescadero”, by Dennis Tobenski, exits with Melissa Fogarty’s stunning soprano that complements the cautious instrumentation.
A really unique effort where each track takes on its own identity, Percussia inject poeticism and reflection into their enlightening formula that warrants repeated listens.
Travels well with: KC Vitas- When We Arrive At Home; Phillip Schroeder- Radiance Within