In The Brink
New Focus, 2022
8/10
The debut album from Ledah Finck (violin), Sarah Thomas (violin), Amy Tan (viola) and Iréne Han (cello), as Bergamot Quartet they bring their strings to the works of Suzanne Farrin, Tania León, Paul Wiancko, and Ledah Finck with much chamber appeal from their very capable hands.
Wiancko’s “Ode On A Broken Loom” starts the listen with the swift and dynamic strings flowing with much grace, as a rich and subtly melodic landscape unfolds, and Leon’s “Esencia” follows with plenty of culture populating the adventurous interaction that highlights the rhythmic gestures.
“Undecim”, by Farrin, lands on the back half, and is a darker moment, where strategic bowing and a distinct harmonic vision make for a mysterious execution, and Finck’s “In The Brink” exits the listen with both busy and sparse moments that illuminate the unpredictable vocalizations, angular bouts and sonic vision that takes company from Terry Sweeney’s drums.
A truly exceptional first record that spotlights living composers, Bergamot Quartet make for a very accomplished and exciting chamber listening experience.
Travels well with: String Noise- Way; Marti Epstein- Nebraska Impromptu