Book of Dreams
As in the previous Shonorities album, the Japanese aesthetic permeates all and creates a deep impression, but here, it is sometimes much more subtle – an impression of philosophy rather than overt musical style. The music of Athanasiadis is technically assured and varied within an overall aura of laid-back, gentle and delicate timbres.
Greek composer Basil Athanasiadis lived and studied in Tokyo to become immersed in the culture. Since moving to England he has founded the unique musical ensemble Shonorities – a diverse group of performers and composers which blends various cultures with principal emphasis on Greece and Japan. The soloists are all highly accomplished and successful in their own right and contribute wonderfully to this second feast of magic from Athanasiadis.
Members of Shonorities: Shie Shoji (vocals); Naomi Sato (shō); Keiko Hisamoto (koto); Lin Lin (alto flute); Nao Tohara (violin); Basil Athanasiadis (piano)
Guest musicians: Elena Abad Martinez & Chloë Meade (violins); Daichi Yoshimura (viola); Henry Hargreaves (cello); Noah Max (conductor)
Track Listing
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Basil Atahanasiadis (b.1970):
- Book of Dreams II (18:04)
- Five Pieces for Female Voice and Prepared Piano - I (2:00)
- Five Pieces for Female Voice and Prepared Piano - II (2:11)
- Five Pieces for Female Voice and Prepared Piano - III (4:23)
- Five Pieces for Female Voice and Prepared Piano - IV (3:37)
- Five Pieces for Female Voice and Prepared Piano - V (2:06)
- Circles (10:21)
- Dream of a Butterfly II - I (2:14)
- Dream of a Butterfly II - II (2:57)
- Dream of a Butterfly II - III (1:19)
- Dream of a Butterfly II - IV (1:40)
- Dream of a Butterfly II - V (2:12)
- Dream of a Butterfly II - VI (1:43)
- Dream of a Butterfly II - VII (4:13)
- Eyes are now Dim (20:06)
Reviews
“These pieces are beautifully atmospheric and evocative. This disc again has an especially beautiful booklet, both in terms of the art design and the color photos that illustrate each piece.
” —Carson Cooman
“There is contrast aplenty in the five works, showing one way in which a strong Greek heritage may be altered by and even subsumed within other cultures. Athanasiadis spent years living and studying in Tokyo, and the pieces on this CD are permeated by Japanese and Chinese aesthetics and sonorities.
” —Mark J. Estren
“This is a delightful album… technically assured but laid back, gentle and delicate timbres. The vocal sections are striking.
” —Jeremy Condliffe
“Attempts to describe this unique and compelling music are going to do it less than justice. It has to be heard. . Basil Athanasiadis is developing a body of work that is very special, lasting and repeatedly rewarding… precious, gentle, deeply beautiful attention to detail. A wonderful follow up to ‘Soft Light’ and is highly recommended. Congratulations, blessings and thanks to all concerned.
” —A D Lewis
