BY SAMUEL COTTELL
In Sync
Translucent Duo
Translucent Duo (Bernard Lagana and David Lockeridge) has humble beginnings – two friends who wanted to make great music together, with the context of contemporary classical music. About a year ago, they commenced a crowdfunding campaign to raise the money to record their debut album, and In Sync is the result. Featuring an array of new commissions by established and emerging Australian composers, this recording is completely in sync with new music, making it engaging for a broad spectrum of audiences.
Matthew Orlovich, who is making his mark on the saxophone world with his energetic music, is the composer of Whirled Music. It was commissioned by Translucent Duo in 2013 and has been at the core of the ensemble’s repertoire ever since. Scored in three movements, the piece begins with a rhythmically buoyant idea and Bernie’s clear and sparkling saxophone tone is supported by David’s marimba lines. The third movement bursts forward with energy and jubilation.
On Carvings, composed by Alex Chilvers, Translucent Duo is joined by saxophonist Michael Duke. This work explores a multitude of colours, particular with percussion, that adds splashes of sound throughout phrases. The two saxophones are supported by the marimba and there is a rich tapestry of sound presented here.
Danielle Barry’s Cloche features an electronic track that adds another dimension to the sound world, and generates a third member in the ensemble. The textural and nuanced electronic track fits perfectly with the two acoustic instruments and the negotiation of balance and interplay are expertly negotiated. This piece develops out of small motific cells and textural shadings that create varied contrast throughout. The overall result is a meditative and reflective piece that leaves you floating and somewhat introspective.
Smoke and Mirrors is composed by Diana Blom and is scored for tenor saxophone and marimba. The piece commences with lone saxophone before the marimba enters, catching the musical idea, in the lower register. Bernie and David’s musicianship in balancing each shading is on full display and clearly demonstrates their deep insight into this ensemble setting and how it works.
A live recording of Ned McGowen’s Urban Turban closes the album. This piece explores angular musical lines, catchy melodic and rhythmic cells as well as lyrical and lush harmonies with soaring melodies. Full of contrasts, this piece demonstrate Lagana and Lockeridge’s ensemble panache as they navigate the tricky and complex musical ideas. The use of silence and space throughout this piece is most effective in enhancing the contrasts.
What strikes me about this recording is that while the music is technically challenging, it is not aesthetically challenging. What is on offer here is a recording that showcases new music, written by fresh and energetic composers and rendered by performers in equal measures. From the first note to the last, this well-balanced and creative recording demonstrates to audiences that new music is as vibrant and accessible as ever. David and Bernie have set a standard for this type of musical ensemble and their commissioning of new works strengthens their commitment to enhancing music for saxophone and marimba. A standout debut album from an emerging new music ensemble paving the way for those that follow.
In Sync is available through Google Play. Follow Translucent Duo on Facebook.
Image supplied.
