Dimensions Vol. 4
Navona, 2023
8/10
This 4th installment of the Dimensions series showcases works of large ensembles for 6 composers, where the powerful and intimate chamber music is quite eclectic.
Liova Bueno’s “Piccola Serenata” opens the listen, where the Brno Contemporary Orchestra’s agile and soaring strings mesh for a very soothing and exciting climate, and “Children on the Playground: Joyful Play”, by Keith Lay, follows with Milan Paľa’s violin and the Brno Contemporary Orchestra making for a very animated and playful delivery that has the capacity for absorbing, bare moments.
In the middle, Octavian Nemescu’s “Cristiascensiocello” places much emphasis on mood, where mysterious moments and chilling, cinematic qualities are present, while “Shallow Streams”, by Ashlee T Busch, is an upbeat and mesmerizing album highlight that’s uniquely textured. The final track, Christopher Jessup’s “Svítání”, then exits with well timed keys in a sparse environment that builds into a lively landscape of booming drums and uplifting strings.
A listen that covers a wide scope of sounds, the winds, strings and percussion are constantly shifting in timbre and tone, and it creates a very captivating experience.
Travels well with: Pinnacle Vol. 3; Beth Wiemann- I Give You My Home