Persist
Sono Luminus, 2024
9/10
The string quartet Ethel welcome the flutist Allison Loggins-Hull for these 5 detailed pieces that mesh experimental and contemporary classical ideas with much creativity.
The atmospheric title track, by Loggins-Hull, opens with Ralph Farris’ strategic viola amid the rich textures and Loggins-Hull’s well timed flute, and “Pillow Talk” follows with dreamy flute and manipulated strings that emit much mystery via the Xavier Muzik piece.
In the middle, Migiwa ‘Miggy’ Miyajima’s “The Reconciliation Suite” unfolds across 4 chapters that showcase Corin Lee and Kip Jones’ meticulous violins in an animated album highlight, while “Terraria”, by Sam Wu, is full of a unique intimacy that spotlights the agile flute playing.
The last track, Leilehua Lanzilotti’s “we began this quilt here”, makes great use of Dorothy Lawson’s cello alongside the playful violins, viola and ambient flute that’s quite charming.
This is Ethel’s 8th album, and much like everything before it, it’s technical, atypical and an extremely accessible version of neo-classical sounds that’s impossible not to admire.
Travels well with: Aaron Irwin Trio- (after); Euclid Quartet- Breve