Reviews

Both of these works demand much from the listener, and should not be taken lightly. [The Sonata] is a harrowing work, but still a human one. The Duet [is] even more fragmented and confrontational… Tone clusters, extreme dynamics, extreme registers, and violent gestures converge to create an alienating environment. I like Sorkin’s wiry sound in the sonata, and also the way both players work to ex¬tract expressivity from the music’s frequent cul-de-sacs.

Rowland performs with care and excellent tempos. The registrations are all calculated to provide the necessary contrast, while the ornamentation is done with exquisite taste and a deft touch. All in all, this is an excellent disc and one that should be in any collection. It does Froberger proud.

[Artyomov] writes music that’s galactically huge, by which we mean it gives the impression of space and endless time; the music of the spheres. It’s imposing, but it’s not hard to listen to… enervating and uplifting,.. it also contains many moments of beauty. (joint review with DDA 25164 and 25176)

[Artyomov] writes music that’s galactically huge, by which we mean it gives the impression of space and endless time; the music of the spheres. It’s imposing, but it’s not hard to listen to… enervating and uplifting,.. it also contains many moments of beauty (Joint review with DDA 25184 and 25176)

This is a very accessible collection. Habershon is inspired by the natural world and it is the main source for her music. Enjoyable and easy to listen to.

The sequencing of pieces on this disc creates an engaging flow of sound. The musical languages are tonally centered, and the affect largely contemplative (but not mournful). The timbral combinations capture the listener’s ear. The recording quality of the disc is excellent.

Works from perhaps less familiar composers are strong pieces that deserve inclusion in performance and courses of study. For anyone interested in the recorder as a central part of 20th-century and later chamber music, [this is] essential listening.

Marie Ythier is a discovery for me: a musician of exquisite subtlety and charisma, whose every phrase is alive with penetrating intelligence. The [album] is an iridescent sonic weave which lingers long in the ear. Five stars awarded.

The warm tones of the cello are what make this CD a pleasure to listen to. We’re not trying to write clever reviews, just tell you whether the music is enjoyable and worth a [piece] of your hard-earned wages. In this case, yes.

[Jaunpuri] is by far the highlight, featuring a searing beauty, serene lushness and calm so akin to its influence from Hindustani music.

Artyomov pushes the wind instruments to their limits — and it pays off. The stark contrast between the energy and intensity of the soloists with the self-effacing string sound creates works of exceptional beauty. Highly recommended.

Artyomov’s symphony is a slowly swirling cloud of sound..’Awakening’ is a remarkably intimate and haunting work… all three works evoke a mystical sonic realm only attainable through Artyomov’s creative imagination.

While the forces may vary, there’s a consistency throughout all these works. Artyomov’s deeply spiritual philosophy imbues every composition. The music alternates between suspended time and bursts of activity. Harmonies are post-tonal, yet not atonal. If you’re looking for an introduction to Artymov’s music, this is a good place to start.

There’s only one way to fully appreciate the genius of Vyacheslav Artyomov. You have to listen to everything he’s written. This is volume three of Divine Art’s series. Collect them all.

How to describe the music of Vyacheslav Artyomov? Imagine combining the structures of Arvo Pärt, the ethereal sound clouds of Kaija Saariaho, the intensity of György Ligeti, and the deep spirituality of John Tavener. Artyomov has a unique compositional voice that, while sharing elements with the afore-named composers, communicates in a musical language that’s all his own. The Russian National Orchestra plays cleanly and precisely — two essentials for the impact of Artyomov’s music to be fully realized.

Nice music played well… quite lively in a laid-back sort of way.

There’s something pleasingly ethereal about [the Jongen]… The Dove sparkles. [The Liszt] is orchestral and theatrical in sound, and played tightly.

Rowland plays 12 suites with all repeats. The unspecified mild temperament sounds like Vallotti’s. It fits the geniality of Rowland’s interpretation. It makes a favourable impression overall. When he finishes the series it should be a reliable reference set.

The music is flowing and melodic….The results are always attractively appealing with some imaginative touches to the orchestration.

This is an excellent disc… subtle and arresting, mesmeric in tone, and featuring accomplished and committed performances throughout. It showcases works for strings by two acclaimed Iranian composers, and is performed with beauty, character and precision.