Adrienne Elisha

Anthelion: The Music Of Adrienne Elisha

Navona, 2022

8/10

Listen to Anthelion: The Music Of Adrienne Elisha

A collection of works from the late composer Adrienne Elisha, the compositions here are technically rich and features small ensembles or solo pieces that were fleshed out between 2004 and 2016 and emit a ‘sonic abstraction’ of timbre dynamics.

“Sonic” opens the listen with a low droning as plenty of mystery enters alongside brief bouts of firm piano, as haunting winds add much atmosphere, and “Resonance” follows with a very meticulous tension that resonates awe amid the creative and calculated strings, keys and winds.

In the middle, the cinematic swells of “Harrier” showcases the manipulated strings in a quivering, complicated demeanor, while “Feneketlento” is just Steven Elisha’s cello weaving in and out of low sounds, furious moments and calm intimacy in its 23 minutes. “Transcendance” exits the listen with the Chamber Orchestra Of Boston on hand, as the conductor David Feltner guides the playful spirit of the diverse and timeless climate.

Elisha possessed an extraordinary vision, and this post-humous release certainly illustrates that well and does her legacy justice in the players’ very capable hands.

Travels well with: Trio Casals- Moto Finale; Mark John McEncroe- Musical Images For Piano: Reflections & Recollections Vol. 4