Florencio Asenjo: The Batrachomyomachia

Florencio Asenjo's "The Batrachomyomachia" is a captivating orchestral journey released on April 1, 2011, under the Albany Records label. This 58-minute album features the Slovak National Symphony Orchestra bringing to life Asenjo's unique compositions. The album is a delightful blend of classical storytelling and musical artistry, divided into two main sections: "Palm-of-the-Hand Tales" and "Basile's Pentameron."

The first section, "Palm-of-the-Hand Tales," comprises ten tracks that draw inspiration from the whimsical and often humorous short stories by Japanese author Kenji Miyazawa. Each piece is a miniature musical narrative, capturing the essence of Miyazawa's tales with a light, playful touch. From the sunny optimism of "A Sunny Place" to the poignant reflection of "A Child's Viewpoint," these compositions showcase Asenjo's ability to evoke vivid imagery and atmosphere through music.

The second half of the album, "Basile's Pentameron," is inspired by the fairy tales of Giambattista Basile. These five tracks delve into the darker, more fantastical elements of Basile's stories, with pieces like "Cat Cinderella" and "The Large Louse, the Mouse, and the Cricket" offering a rich tapestry of sound and texture. The album concludes with "End of the Tale of Tales," a fitting finale that ties together the diverse themes and styles explored throughout the album.

Florencio Asenjo's "The Batrachomyomachia" is a testament to his skill as a composer, offering a unique and engaging listening experience that will appeal to fans of classical and orchestral music alike. The album's intricate compositions and the Slovak National Symphony Orchestra's masterful performance make it a standout release in Asenjo's discography.