Figments Vol 3: Contemporary Chamber Works
Navona, 2022
8/10
This 3rd installment of the Figments series brings the work of Jacob E. Goodman, Gary D. Belshaw, Andrew Lewinter, Thomas Mann Jr., Elliott Miles McKinley, and Eleanor Alberga, where the compositions range from soothing to mystical in the very capable hands of the esteemed musicians on hand.
“Variations For A Rainy Afternoon” opens the listen with Anna Kislitsyna’s graceful keys alongside soothing strings in the very agile and inviting climate, and “Piccolo & Chalumeau” follows with Sandra Mosteller’s dreamy clarinet and Richard Fountain’s piano complemented by Jessica Lizak’s strategic flute/piccolo in the upbeat and energetic landscape.
Halfway through, “Trio For Oboe, Horn, And Piano” blends the 3 instruments with incredible beauty in its cinematic appeal, while “Dance Of The Lizards” recruits the Juventas New Music Ensemble for a very playful album highlight that uses strings and winds with a very charming delivery.
Near the end, the more ominous and chilling “Three Autumn Sketches” employs the Slovak Radio Symphony Chamber Music Players for the haunting effort, and “Shining Gate Of Morpheus” exits the listen with Richard Watkins’ horn and the Ensemble Arcadiana’s strings starting with intimacy before building into a radiant, thriving finish.
A very diverse set of tracks that explores fantasy and reality in the area of Greek mythology, spirited animals and surreal scenic portraits, the easily embraceable melodies and rhythm make each selection here worth repeated visits.
Travels well with: Peter Greve- Oerbos & Other Works Vol. II; The Music Of Rain Worthington- Passages Through Time