Dean, B.: Viola Concerto / 12 Angry Men / Intimate Decisions / Komarov's Fall

Dive into the captivating world of Brett Dean's compositional prowess with this compelling 2008 release from BIS Records. This album showcases Dean's versatility and mastery of chamber music, featuring a collection of works that highlight his unique voice in the classical genre.

The centerpiece of the album is Dean's Viola Concerto, a three-movement work that demonstrates his ability to blend lyricism and drama. The concerto is performed by the composer himself, accompanied by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Simone Young. The work is a testament to Dean's skill in writing for strings, with a rich harmonic language and evocative melodies that keep the listener engaged from start to finish.

In addition to the concerto, the album features several other works by Dean. "12 Angry Men" is a striking piece for twelve cellos, inspired by the classic film of the same name. The work is a tour de force of rhythmic complexity and textural variety, showcasing the ensemble's virtuosity and Dean's inventive use of instrumentation.

"Intimate Decisions" is a solo viola piece that offers a more introspective side of Dean's compositional style. The work is a poignant exploration of the instrument's expressive range, with a haunting melody that lingers long after the final note has faded.

Rounding out the album is "Komarov's Fall," a brief but powerful orchestral work that pays tribute to the Soviet cosmonaut Vladimir Komarov. The piece is a dramatic and evocative exploration of loss and remembrance, with a lush harmonic language and a sense of narrative drive that makes it a standout in Dean's catalog.

Throughout the album, Dean's idiom is readily accessible, with a firm grounding in tonality and a colorful palette of orchestral colors. Whether you're a longtime fan of Brett Dean's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With a total duration of just over an hour, it's the perfect introduction to the composer's unique voice and his contributions to the world of chamber music.