Intuitive sounds are presented from Innova Records on these two releases.
Pianist Yuko Fujiyama teams up with a rotating collection of Jennifer Choi/vi, Graham Haynes/ct-fh and Susie Ibarra/dr-perc as well as bringing in some expressionistic solos works. Of the latter, there is a melancholy “Waltz of the Shadows” and graciously lyrical “Starlight” that uses space adroitly. The quartet gets frisky and aggressive no “Up Tempo” and gets into a wild traffic jam on “Fireworks.” The trio of piano cornet and drums gets hopping on “Leap” while some gorgeous longing long tones are found in the thoughtful “Romance.” Sounds and music.
Vocal sopranist Ah Young Hong interpretes the material of Milton Babbitt and Michael Hersch along with teamwork by Miranda Cuckson/vi, Gleb Kanasevich/cl and Jamie Hersch/horn. The 18 minute Babbitt piece “Philomel” is a collection of vocal chirps and eerie high pitched voice, while the instruments create an eerie and abstract presence, making you wait for the murder to take place. Michael Hersch’s “A Breath Upwards” consists of XII vignets ranging from 35 seconds to 6:13. Soft reeds on “V” an d”VII” contrast with long moments of silence, with ominous ghostlike sonorities. Hong’s voice is crystalline and pure, making the haunting mix of silence, voice and crackling instruments all the more like a visit to a haunted house.