CD Chamber Works Vol. II – Released March 18, 2022
I have previously extolled the virtues of Australian composer Lachlan Skipworth, and his latest recording, rather more conventional, does nothing to alter my opinion.
His Oboe Quartet could not have better exponents than Diana Doherty and the Streeton Trio. Written in classical format Lachlan again produces a mellow sound which transcends the gap between modern and conventional classical music. The soloist is faultless while the Trio’s excellence is well known to many.
A one movement Flute Sonata contains many brilliant runs on both flute and piano and brings to mind a busy but peaceful city atmosphere while Piano Quartet No.2 played by Cygnus Arioso (swan song) brings to mind the minimalistic style of Arvo Pärt.
Shingetsu is loosely translated as “heart moon” – this piece for piano conveys this meaning but, surprisingly, not in a Far Eastern idiom, rather in an Australian one, and is impressively moving.
Light Rain however is very much Japanese featuring the Shakuhachi with an unobtrusive string quartet backing and one imagines a bare desert with plants fighting for the few raindrops.
The Crossing features a vibraphone as well as winds and strings and produces an eerie vibrato effect, again reminiscent of a parched outback.
I enjoyed this CD as much as the previous one. It’s great to hear the contrast between Eastern modes and more Western ones producing a similar drowsy effect. I’m waiting expectantly to hear the composer’s music in a live concert.
Tracks
1 – 3 Oboe Quartet – Diana Doherty | oboe, Streeton Trio
4 Flute Sonata – Andrew Nicholson | flute, Adam Pinto | piano
5 Piano Quartet No. 2 – Cygnus Arioso
6 Shingetsu – Liam Wooding | piano
7 Light Rain – Bronwyn Kirkpatrick | shakuhachi, Skipworth Ensemble
8 The Crossing – Syzygy Ensemble
