Blaze
Centrediscs, 2023
8/10
The esteemed composer Alice Ping Yee Ho presents 8 pieces inspired by abstract paintings, where the introspective and personal songwriting is fleshed out by the Canadian pianist Christina Petrowska Quilico.
The diverse and meticulous delivery of the title track opens the listen, where Quilico’s skills are immediately striking, and “Shade” follows with both low moments and dreamy dynamics that are equally artistic and cinematic.
At the midpoint, the atmospheric “Aeon” mesmerized us with its rich climate, while “Erupting Skies”, the most adventurous piece, welcomes electronics to the rumbling, ambient demeanor of mystery and grace.
Moving towards the end, the tense and firm “Caprice” seems like it could soundtrack an action flick with its dancing fingers, and “Garage” exits with a slow dirge-like presence that emits an ominous landscape of minimal but impactful sounds.
A very colorful and sometimes dramatic affair, Ho’s work is artistic, stimulating and imaginative, and very much resonates in Quilico’s capable hands.
Travels well with: Rich Pellegin- Passage; Hal Galper Trio- Invitation To Openness