Sovereign Vibrations – Glenn Naftchi www.sovereignvibrations.com

Like the Andy Garbi CD reviewed last issue, I find this album so inspiring. Glenn Naftchi is another fiercely talented ‘art music’ composer who is bold enough to stay true to his passionate visions, however difficult and challenging they may be to most listeners. This bravery is immediately symbolised by the strident opening vocal chords of the title track, Sovereign Vibrations, which pin the listener with a challenge: ‘Are you strong enough to take this on, to listen to this?’ Naftchi takes a decidedly ‘no pussyfooting’ stance alongside fellow countrymen Copeland and Ives.

But then track 2 is entirely different: a solo piano waltz with lilting charm for Glenn’s sister. Then tracks 3&4 lead into Bartokian realms... where Debussy’s magical mystery cathedrals are engulfed in melancholia, whilst Stravinsky’s ostinato soldier is caught telling tales again... Well something like that.

Whichever one track I chose as a sample would misrepresent this album; such is the variety contained - so keep listening as there are two tracks here back-to-back. Something for everyone? No, just the brave.

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not available from Amazon UK

Amazon.com