Val Giamo’s latest album, Stay With Me For Thirty Minutes, released in December 2023, is a musical journey filled with her ability to weave intricate stories through the emotive sounds of solo piano and, piano and cello. Living in Gothenburg, Sweden, Giamo has honed her craft over the years, drawing from a rich array of influences and experiences. From her classical education in Russia to her explorations in various music genres, her work culminates in this album—a narrative journey shared with cellist Axel Vilborg, who joins her for two selections.
The album opens with “Let Us Find A Place,” immediately [...]
Sony Classical’s recent unveiling of Venice by cellist Anastasia Kobekina marks a pioneering venture into the depths of classical and baroque music through the lens of Venice’s evocative landscapes. The album displays Kobekina’s unparalleled musicianship and bold journey through a city that has captivated her imagination and artistic exploration. Kobekina, celebrated for her almost overwhelming sincerity and fearless artistry, navigates through this repertoire of twenty-three selections, embracing a range of modern and baroque cello techniques with an imaginative flair that is fascinating.
Venice is a concept album where [...]
The process of reviewing Lise Davidsen’s Christmas From Norway is an enjoyable listen to chronicle an album that celebrates the Holiday Season. Davidsen delves into its soul to unravel the intricate layers of sounds and to celebrate the confluence of musical mastery and cultural essence of this celebrated music. This album, a collection of Yuletide melodies, shows Davidsen’s vocal skills and is a journey into the heart of Scandinavian Christmas traditions, replete with the warmth and spirit of the season.
From the outset, Christmas From Norway is a revelation of [...]
Igor Levit’s Fantasia is another outstanding addition to his discography for the world of classical piano recordings. This double album, released under the prestigious Sony Classical label, is a masterclass in both the depth and breadth of piano literature that spans centuries. At its core, Fantasia makes a powerful statement about the vast interpretive possibilities that exist within iconic piano pieces, and Levit’s execution is nothing short of mesmerizing.
From the timeless compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach to the modernistic [...]