Introducing 'Music in Circicles': hear now berlin's Debut Album
Delving into a universe of sonic richness, we are pleased to unveil 'Music in Circles,' hear now berlin's debut album. Released on June 2, 2023, this musical endeavor showcases compositions from some of the most personal contemporary composers, illustrating music's endless capacity for human expression and emotion.
Hear now berlin, an ensemble that has always striven to push the boundaries of contemporary music, has compiled a series of compositions that illuminate various aspects of human life in their debut. Each piece in the album contributes to an overarching narrative, creating an immersive musical journey that offers something for all serious listeners.
Anchoring the album is the eponymous 'Music in Circles,' penned by the ingenious composer Andrew Norman. The piece uses a symmetrical structure and repeated refracted scale motifs to embark listeners on a journey through an auditory hall of mirrors, inviting contemplation of the infinite and the eternal. This extraordinary work is a testament to the boundless horizons of music and is sure to pique the interest of any dedicated music aficionado.
Accompanying this is Gabriella Smith's 'Maré,' an exploration of organic evolution manifested in sound. The piece begins with glistening textures that smoothly transition into deep, ominous growls and ecstatic sound washes. Smith’s composition effortlessly mirrors the cycle of nature, creating aural images that resonate with listeners.
Next, we find Caroline Shaw’s 'Draft of a High-Rise,' a feat of both virtuosity and complexity. This piece is akin to a musical kaleidoscope, blending sweeping melodies, warm harmonies, and jittery passages into a constantly shifting sonic panorama.
Nathan Schram's 'HNB' stands out as a distinctive track on the album. It's a funky, full-throttle journey through uplifting soundscapes, demanding the utmost from its performers and offering an exhilarating auditory experience for its listeners.
Rounding out the musical selection is '(un)raveling,' a personal and introspective piece by hear now berlin's flutist and founder, Kelly Watson Woelffer. The work is a poignant reflection on the trials of balancing motherhood and creativity during the pandemic, expressing a very personal narrative that many listeners can resonate with.
The ensemble's musicians - Kelly Watson Woelffer, Jens Thoben, Paul Hübner, Meike-Lu Schneider, Alexina Hawkins, and Edward King - offer outstanding performances. Each musician has showcased their exceptional skill and emotional depth, providing the perfect vehicle for each composition's unique narrative and contributing to the overall cohesiveness of the album.
Recorded in March 2022 at Traumton Records Berlin, the production was handled by Justus Beyer, whose work in mixing and mastering has polished these stunning performances to their best shine. The attention to acoustic detail in each track is apparent, making for a rewarding listening experience.
The album’s aesthetic appeal is further enhanced by the artwork 'The God of Small Things 19' by Ruprecht von Kaufmann, which graces the cover. Coupled with Dan Abbott's design work, this album is as visually striking as it is audibly compelling.
'Music in Circles' is a testament to hear now berlin's dedication to producing contemporary music of the highest caliber. We invite listeners invests the time to experience this fascinating debut album, not just as a collection of individual pieces, but as an overarching narrative of human experience, expressed through the language of sound.