One of the freshest string quartets we've heard in years – a group of young musicians with roots in many different styles, coming together in a really evocative way – and with a sound that's free from any gimmicks or tricks! In the years since Kronos, there's been lots of messing with the string quartet format – to the point where it's almost a joke at times – but these guys show that there's plenty of new life to be brought to the form, without resorting to kitschy cover versions or too oft-tread territory! The music is from a great range of talents – including jazz musicians like Bill Frisell, Ethan Iverson, and Vijay Iyer – but the group's presentation is very unique, and makes a diverse array of compositions come together with a distinctly Americanist take on the format – one that is quite far from the European roots of the string quartet, but still deeply respectful of the musicianship required. Titles include "Necessary Henry", "Simpson's Gap", "Five Legged Cat", "Exit", "Morris Dance", "John Steinbeck", "Ping Pong Fumble Thaw", "Dig The Say", and "Show Me". (Out Sound, Classical) CD

... CD

... CD

... CD

... CD

... CD

... CD

One of the most enigmatic cellists of the 20th Century – heard here on a keynote recording of Dvorak's famous Cello Concerto In B Minor! Janos Starker is one of our all-time favorites on his instrument – a player who can be subtle when needed, but also able to hit the vivid flights of color you might be more likely to hear from a violinist – especially in the company of Antal Dorati, who spurs the London Symphony on with some especially wonderful elements in the woodwinds. Starker hits some darker notes on Bruch's Kol Nidrei – which takes on an especially rich sound here in the hands of Dorati. CD

... CD

... CD

... CD