PLAYGROUNDS FOR ANGELS:
Works by Rautavaara, Sibelius, Grieg and
Nystedt.
Brass Partout Hermann Baumer.
BIS CD 1054 72m
DDD.
Crotchet
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Rautavaara's 'Requiem in our Time' is by far the most interesting work in
this lengthy collection. It allies strong rhythmic vitality to an unencumbered
dissonance that definitely highlight our deep recession in morality. 'Playgrounds
for Angels' is more overtly optimistic and the superb virtuosity of Brass
Partout is severely tested by the well nigh impossible twists and turns that
characterize the twelve minutes of tour-de-force. I also enjoyed the Overture
in F minor by Sibelius as well as the motely collection of short pieces that
follow including the 'Tiera' which has appeared before in BIS' Sibelius edition
conducted by Jaarvi. Another Requiem by Knut Nystedt is not a patch on
Rautavaara's although there are some interesting moments especially in the
concluding Lux aeternam. Grieg's 'Funeral March after Rikaard Nordraak' makes
up the rest of the programme and this is given a splendidly vivid interpretation
by Brass partout. This group is a top-class brass ensemble and their sheer
musical prowess is never in doubt. Strong, vivid sound is also a hallmark
of this release. The varied and eclectic programme may not be to all tastes
but BIS' enterprising customers will surely think otherwise.
Reviewer
Gerald Fenech
Performance:
Sound:
