Sky’s Acetylene
New Focus, 2021
8/10
A composer, conductor and violinist, David Fulmer penned “Sky’s Acetylene” for the New York Philharmonic, who bring 5 instruments to the many solos and precise, rhythmic interplay of the nearly 14 minute track.
The tune opens with an atmospheric and exploratory approach, where Daniel Druckman’s ominous percussion aligns with Nancy Allen’s firm harp prowess that both glides serenely and crashes with firm dynamics. It isn’t long before Mindy Kaufman’s versatile flute and Eric Huebner’s rumbling piano make an impression, and by the back half of the composition we’re in busier textures of dizzying harmonics that are anchored by Max Zeugner’s bass and Jeffrey Milarsky’s conducting.
Fulmer’s commitment to contemporary music is much appreciated here, and the band’s fascinating performance makes this a quick but impactful listen in the area of orchestral and chamber music that’s unpredictable and unassuming in all the best ways.
Travels well with: Van Stiefel- Spirits; Martin Scherzinger- Scherzinger Etudes