James MacMillan’s Viola Concert is a magnificent addition to the repertoire; the debut recording of Magnus Lindberg’s song cycle Accused leaves a bit to be desired; a fetching, brilliant gathering of orchestral music by Sir Richard Rodney Bennett.
Music
Opera CD Review: A Compact, Powerful New Opera from Carlisle Floyd, Composer of “Susannah”
Prince of Players is based on a play that also yielded the movie Stage Beauty, and it’s one of the best new operas to come along in years.
Classical CD Reviews: “Whither Must I Wander,” “Death and the Maiden,” and Caroline Shaw’s “Is a Rose” & “The Listeners”
Whither Must I Wander, the debut recording from baritone Will Liverman and pianist Jonathan King, is one of 2020’s finest classical releases; 12 ensemble provides a kinetically-played example of a large-ensemble arrangement of chamber music.
Pop Album Review: Hayley Williams’ “Petals for Armour” — A Compelling Solo Adventure
On her solo debut, the former Paramore lead singer undergoes a startling transformation.
Jazz Commentary: Sinatra — Myth, Reality, and a Critic Standing in Line at Arby’s
A review of the 60th anniversary reissue of Frank Sinatra’s album Nice ‘n’ Easy. Though not without a few rounds with the Sinatra mythology — not the complicated man, but his music.
Jazz CD Review: “The Jerry Granelli Trio Plays Vince Guaraldi and Mose Allison” — Paying Exciting Homage
The interpretations of the covers in this beautifully realized tribute album will bring back memories of the originals in a way that is enlivening rather than nostalgic.
Music Feature: Gideon King & City Blog — Forward Motion in a Backwards Time
“As artists, it’s our obligation to keep going. I really believe we have to push for the world to open up again.”
Music Documentary Review: “Up From the Streets” — New Orleans’ History of Oppression and Creativity
Up From the Streets is no New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival — but it tries.
Music Appreciation: Two American Musical Geniuses Named Steve, on Their Birthdays — Sondheim and Wonder
Musical theater giant Stephen Sondheim turned 90 on March 22, and Stevie Wonder—for my money, the greatest popular music composer of the last 60 years—turned 70 on May 13.
Opera CD Review: Gunther Schuller’s Splendid 1970 Children’s Opera Gets Its World-Premiere Recording
A Grimm, but not grim, opera about a Fisherman, his Wife, their Cat, and a wish-granting Flounder.