Tús
New Focus, 2022
9/10
The debut release from the Irish composer Finola Merivale, Tús pulls from 10 years of her work with the New York based Desdemona string quartet, where texturing and energy are key components in the very well executed chamber environment.
“Do You Hear Me Now?” opens the listen with Adrianne Munden-Dixon’s violin, Carrie Frey’s viola and Julia Henderson’s cello making for a very chilling and fascinating start, where the strings are manipulated in ways that are both ominous and exciting.
“Arbores Erimus” and “Release” occupy the middle spots, as the former pairs violin and electronics in a stirring climate, while the latter drones more aggressively, where Munden-Dixon’s violin and Margarita Rovenskaya’s piano emits much tension and wonder via the string acrobatics and firm keys that make this the album’s best.
“The Language Of Mountains Is Rain” exits the listen, and presents an abstract version of Irish melodies thanks to the string quartet’s meticulous interaction and Merivale’s diverse vision.
A very modern and precise display of unparalleled skill, there is much subtlety to be found here, and the balancing of intensity and serenity is handled with the utmost care, effectively making this a superb first album.
Travels well with: Marti Epstein- Nebraska Impromptu; Tom Flaherty- Mixed Messages