Harmony In Black
Albany, 2024
8/10
A series that highlights the voices of living, diverse composers based in the United States, both Patrice Rushen and William Banfield are featured here and are fleshed out by the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra’s skilled presence.
“Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory”, by Rushen, starts the listen, and displays melodic gestures and sweeping strings, where the luminous percussion suits the dynamic interaction of the 3 chapters.
Banfield’s “Testimony of Tone, Tune & Time” arrives in the middle, and expands across 8 segments, where Matthew Sintchak’s saxophone is both agile and soulful, and complements the intimate climate that doesn’t shy away from exploration, too.
Banfield also occupies the final track, where “Symphony No. 8” carries a hint of mystery, as cinematic songwriting flows with gentle ebbs of beauty.
The addition of direct quotation of speeches or writings adds much intrigue to the project, as the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, under the conducting of Andrew Sewell, make for a stunning orchestral affair.
Travels well with: Mark Davidson- À la manière; Ursula Mamlok- Vol. 6