New Dances Of The League Of David
New Focus, 2024
8/10
Listen to New Dances Of The League Of David
A collection of 15 new piano miniatures, the pianist David Kaplan makes an impression with this first solo album, where some of today’s most luminous American composers are weaved into Robert Schumann’s Davidsbündlertänze.
“Davidsbündlertänze, Op. 6: I. Lebhaft” begins with the adventurous keys embracing both elegance and creativity via the careful key progressions, and it isn’t long until “Davidsbündlertänze, Op. 6: III. Mit Humor” offers a bright and upbeat quick burst of animated piano.
Further along, “No. 6 Sehr rasch und in sich hinein”, by Gabriel Kahane, recruits meticulous dynamics to the mysterious landscape, while Andrew Norman’s “Vorspiel” is an intimate moment of beauty that’s emotive, engaging and builds into a swift album highlight.
Deeper still, Caroline Shaw’s “XVI. (mit gutem Humor, un poco lol ma con serioso vibes)” is a jumpy and lively bout of finger acrobatics that few others could parallel, and Schumann’s “Davidsbündlertänze, Op. 6: V. Einfach” exits with a heartfelt and gentle demeanor of sophistication and timelessness.
A highly technical listen that has the keys dancing with imagination as well as retreating to introspection, Kaplan’s diverse style and rhythmic abilities make each selection shine.
Travels well with: The Rhythm Method- Pastorale; Orlando Jacinto García- La Vida Que Vendra