Joseph Haydn

Heretic Threads

Astrila, 2023

9/10

Listen to Heretic Threads

The trio of musicians, Peter Lutek, Boyd McDonald and Joseph Petric, illuminate the keyboard work of Joseph Haydn, and it’s a very thorough 2 disc set that explores classical music and electroacoustic ideas.

“Sonata in F Major, Hob. XV123” opens the listen with McDonald’s dancing keys highlighting Haydn’s playful vision with the swift melodies and very meticulous progressions, and it isn’t long until “Fantasia in C Major, Hob.XVII4” finds the animated keys making for a very exciting and memorable performance.

The middle tracks belong to Petric’s accordion, where “Sonata in F Major, Hob.XV123” illustrates very precise finger acrobatics in the flowing climate, while “Sonata in E Minor, Hob.XV134” is full of a distinct atmosphere that quivers a bit in a carnival-esque sort of fashion.

The final track, “Sintering”, is heavy on Lutek’s fascinating electronics, but also provides a platform for McDonald’s clever keys and Petric’s upbeat accordion for the rich and dynamic album highlight.

An extremely creative sonic journey that takes into account all the player’s extensive resumes, we’re treated to profoundly skilled manipulation of their respective instruments, and an interpretative vision that few others will ever explore.

Travels well with: Anthony Tan- Susurrus; Yang Chen- Longing For_