Dreams Of A New Day
Cedille, 2021
9/10
A well timed February release, Will Liverman brings his stunning vocals alongside Paul Sánchez’s proficient keys as they highlight songs from Black composers from across many generations on this very passionate and artistic project.
Damien Sneed’s “I Dream A World” starts the listen with warm piano alongside Liverman’s expressive baritone in a brief but effective, emotive climate, and “Five Songs Of Laurence Hope” follows with daring vocal acrobatics that are both full and rich, as well as soft and agile, as playful keys accompany Liverman on the Henry Burleigh selection.
Deeper into the listen, Margaret Bonds’ “Three Dream Portraits” displays timeless musicianship and moments of cathartic singing, while Thomas Kerr’s “Riding To Town” is a quick and bouncy execution of both upbeat and subdued song craft.
Further still, “Mortal Storm”, by Robert Owens, unfolds across 5 movements that are indeed turbulent, but also with bouts of serenity amid the eloquent storytelling, and Richard Farina’s “Birmingham Sunday” exits the listen with Liverman’s arrangement showcasing much beauty as the diverse singing flows with much detail.
In addition to the stirring environment, there’s 2 booklets included in the packaging, including 20 pages of thorough program notes by Dr. Louise Toppin, as well as complete song texts with words by Langston Hughes, Adela Florence Nicolson and Marcus Amaker, plus many more.
A truly inimitable listen, Liverman and Sánchez shine a spotlight on the influence of Black composers on art song, and they do it with much respect, integrity and skill that you’re not likely to hear anywhere else.
Travels well with: Scott Lee- Through The Mangrove Tunnels; Catalyst Quartet- Uncovered Volume 1