Harmony Unchained
Acis, 2026
10/10
The ensemble Agave return with 9 detailed pieces, where their always impressive skills unfold across Biber, Schmelzer and the 17th- century avant-garde.
“Sonatae tam aris, quam aulis servientes: IV. Sonata a 5 in C Major, C. 117” opens with the graceful violins and Kris Kwapis’ bright baroque trumpet illuminating the fluid climate, and “Harmonia artificioso-ariosa: Partia I in D Minor, C.62” follows with Katherine Kyme’s viola and William Skeen’s violoncello adding much richness to the dynamic delivery.
“Armonico Tributo: Sonata No. 2 in G minor” arrives in the middle and radiates much intimacy, where Henry Lebedinsky’s soothing organ won’t go unnoticed, while “Sonata a 5 in C major” offers an animated moment via the colorful horn and Anna Marsh’s well timed dulcian.
Arriving later, “Harmonia artificioso-ariosa, Partia III in A Major, C 64” makes great use of Aaron Westman and Anna Washburn’s intricate violins amid much ambience, and Pavel Josef Vejvanovsky’s “Sonata a 4” exits with a calm but no less impactful mood of warmth and melody.
Agave direct their vision towards the courts and cathedrals of the Holy Roman Empire and its seat of power, Vienna, with this body of work, and the result is an attentive and captivating performance, not unlike everything they’ve done already.
Travels well with: Greg Sandow- Three Quartets; Natalie Draper/Anne Laver- Interlaced