Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Here we have instrumental music from seven different composers. Were we to list them chronologically we would start with Erik Satie who provides six “Gnossiennes” and three “Preludes For Piano” played by John Lenehan. All were written in the closing years of the 19th century but are much closer to the minimalism of the 20th. We stay in France with two “Louanges” by Oliver Messiaen with Lenehan being joined by Caroline Dearnley on the cello. The remaining five composers are still alive. For this reviewer the highlight is “Spiegel im Spiegel” by Arvo Pärt, played by Lenehan (piano) and Rebecca Hirsch (violin). Next is John Adam's wistful, almost pure jazz piece “Alone” played by Simon Haram (saxophone) and Liz Burley (keyboards). James MacMillan gives us “Angel”, an enigmatic piano solo played by John York. Then we have “Forgiveness” by the American Joseph Curiale that has certain affinities to the earlier work of Satie. Finally we have two pieces by Paul Honey, both from the soundtrack for Two Days, Nine Lives: “Jesus” and “Morning”. Both are played by the Artemis Sinfonia. More should be said but if you already like just one of these composers almost certainly you will like others. And if all are new to you this is a good place to start exploring.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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