John Harbison: The Great Gatsby Suite

Dive into the world of acclaimed American composer John Harbison with his captivating album, "The Great Gatsby Suite," released in 2015 under Albany Records. This avant-garde masterpiece showcases Harbison's unique compositional voice, featuring seven compelling tracks that span approximately 49 minutes.

The album opens with "The Great Gatsby Suite," a two-part instrumental journey drawn from Harbison's opera of the same name, offering a glimpse into the opulent and decadent world of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel. The suite's intricate layers and dynamic shifts are brought to life by the Albany Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the esteemed David Alan Miller.

In addition to the suite, the album presents "Darkbloom – Overture for an Imagined Opera," a tantalizing glimpse into a project that Harbison ultimately decided not to pursue. This brief yet powerful piece is a testament to the composer's ability to evoke vivid imagery and atmosphere through music alone.

The newest work on the recording, "Closer To My Own Life," is a four-movement cycle that explores themes of introspection and personal narrative. Each movement, from the haunting "Home" to the enigmatic "Messenger," offers a unique perspective on the human experience.

Throughout the album, Harbison's distinctive compositional style shines, characterized by its intricate textures, unexpected harmonies, and keen sense of drama. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Harbison's work or a newcomer to his music, "The Great Gatsby Suite" is sure to captivate and inspire.