River Of Fire
Cedille, 2025
9/10
The guitarist Denis Azabagic and flutist Eugenia Moliner are joined by the Pacific Quartet for these world premiere recordings of 5 works that embrace classical and Romani ideas.
The profound climate of “Romani” leads with Brandon Vamos’ gripping cello complementing the cautious beauty that, in later chapters, becomes more animated thanks to Moliner’s animated flute via the Stacy Garrop selection.
Sergio Assad’s “Contos Ciganos” follows with Simin Ganatra’s fascinating violin playing that suits the rich delivery, while “Râga "Ibriama", by Atanas Ourkourzounov, showcases dancing strings and colorful winds amid a busy mood.
The last 2 tracks include “Three Artisans” and “Four Scenes”. The former radiates wonder and awe thanks to the gentle strings of Matthew Dunne’s vision, and the latter, by Clarice Assad, showcases swift and intricate musicianship that’s cinematic and exciting.
A body of work that seeks to dispel the negative stereotypes of the Romani people, the duo and quartet pen a technical yet accessible effort that continues to solidify both the outfit’s positions as leaders of modern classical and chamber sounds.
Travels well with: Shawn E Okpebholo- Songs In Flight; Eight Blackbird/David Lang- Composition As Explanation