Huw Watkins: Chamber Music and Works for String Orchestra
[ CD / Album Digipak ]

Huw Watkins: Works For Strings & Piano Trio is the musical equivalent of a delightful summer picnic, complete with charming melodies and radiant harmonies. The LEONORE PIANO TRIO and Orchestra Nova, under the baton of maestro George Vass, bring these compositions to life with a level of elegance and finesse that would make even the snootiest of music snobs nod in approval.

The album opens with Watkins' Piano Trio, a jaunty romp through lush string passages and sparkling piano lines. The musicians navigate the complex rhythms and dynamic shifts with ease, creating a sense of joyful exuberance that is truly infectious.

But it's not all sunshine and rainbows on this record. Watkins' String Quartet takes a darker turn, diving into murky waters of dissonance and tension. The LEONORE PIANO TRIO and Orchestra Nova tackle this challenging piece with a sense of urgency and intensity that is nothing short of electrifying.

Throughout the album, violist Rachel Roberts shines like a diamond, her warm tone and expressive phrasing adding an extra layer of depth to Watkins' intricate compositions. Her duets with the piano and strings are transcendent, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that is nothing short of mesmerizing.

In conclusion, Huw Watkins: Works For Strings & Piano Trio is a must-listen for anyone with an appreciation for contemporary classical music. It's a playful, thought-provoking journey that will leave you craving more. So grab your headphones, sit back, and let the magic of this album sweep you off your feet.