Interlaced
Acis, 2026
9/10
Natalie Draper’s composing and Anne Laver’s organ are joined by strings, brass and vocals for these involved and timeless pieces.
The warm title track opens with William Knuth’s meticulous violin alongside Laver’s glowing keys, and “Pattern Dances” follows with 5 chapters that radiate grace, playfulness and a soothing quality thanks to the elegant strings and moody keys.
In the middle, Heather Buchman’s deep trombone helps add a cinematic quality to the cautiousness “Out Of The Depths”, while “A Study In Breathing” recruits sopranos and Katherine Suzanne Weber’s mezzo-soprano for the tonally vibrant and powerful album highlight.
“Joyful Canons” lands late, and showcases Laver’s intricate organ playing that’s got a melodic backdrop, and “Cloths Of Heaven” exits with soprano voices and the Hendricks Chapel Choir of Syracuse University merging for a dreamy and harmonic finish.
An exciting collaboration where each piece brings new textures to the table, Draper and Laver’s inimitable talents are illustrated with unparalleled attention to color and timbre.
Travels well with: Reena Esmail- Exaltations; Susanna Mendlow- Travels With Cello