Sparks Vol. II
Navona, 2021
9/10
Under the expert conducting of Stanislav Vavrinek and Jiri Petrdlik, the Janácek Philharmonic Orchestra bring us 8 pieces by 8 different artists here, where modern and traditional ideas unfold with technical and timeless instrumentation.
Dave Dexter’s “Hiraeth” starts the listen with much atmosphere as beaming strings enter the cinematic and soaring landscape, and this triumphant approach continues to the galloping spirit of William C. White’s “Recollected Dances”, as well as the soft mysteriousness of “Till Voices Wake Us”, by Simon Andrews.
Of the middle tracks, Rain Worthington’s “Within Deep Currents” recruits dynamic and meticulous string interaction in the album highlight, while “Seed Of Doubt”, by John A. Carollo, dances with graceful melodies amid some strategic tension.
Landing near the end, “Torso”, for four violins and string orchestra, displays fascinating string manipulation in the John Franek tune that even gets a bit eerie, and “Reflection” finishes out the listen with much emotion and warmth wrapped around the Jeff Mangels finish.
Although the inspiration for the songs derive from many different places, i.e. ancient myths, rites of passage, reflection, etc., the album flows seamlessly with a unifying theme of raw energy from the exceptional musicians and flawless conducting.
Travels well with: Herb Deutsch- Encounters; Stanley Grill- Remember