…arching, reaching, breathless
New Focus, 2026
9/10
Listen to …arching, reaching, breathless
The composer Eric Chasalow blends strings and keys into this electroacoustic setting that touches on chamber sounds where each selection carries its own distinct identity.
“The Wings That Bear The Night Away” starts with Mari Kimura’s manipulated violin that radiates tremendous dynamics and cinematic qualities, and “Third Piano Trio: Rock Hill Variations” follows with Clara Lyon’s violin, Hannah Collins’ cello and Steven Beck’s piano interacting with quick and meticulous songwriting that’s exciting.
“Second Quartet” and “String Sextet” arrive in the middle. The former features the meticulous strings of the Lydian String Quartet, who blends space and intimacy via both animated and minimal bouts, while the latter adds Sam Kelder’s viola and Collins’ cello into the dizzying and serene album highlight.
Arrived late, “Disillusionment of Ten O’Clock” enlists David Russell’s voice and cello to the poetic and plucking mood, and ”To The Edge And Back” pairs Julia Glenn’s viola and Beck’s keys that displays expressive changes that are exciting and unpredictable.
A highly detailed project, the emphasis on timbre and structural organization explores chamber and classical music with unparalleled attention.
Travels well with: Lei Liang- Six Seasons: Instrumentation Lab; Richard Carrick- I’Algérie