Martin Suckling's debut album, "This Departing Landscape," is a captivating exploration of orchestral music that showcases the composer's unique voice and deep connection to his Scottish roots. Released on NMC Recordings in February 2021, this critically acclaimed disc features a collection of works that highlight Suckling's ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements, resulting in a rich and evocative listening experience.
The album opens with "The White Road (After Edmund de Waal)," a piece inspired by the ceramicist's memoir of the same name, followed by the five-movement "Piano Concerto," performed by the BBC Philharmonic and BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Ilan Volkov. The concerto is a tour de force, with each movement offering a distinct atmosphere, from the vigorous opening to the luminous intermezzo and the powerful passacaglia that closes the work. The album concludes with the title track, "This Departing Landscape," a 20-minute orchestral piece commissioned by BBC Radio 3 that paints a vivid sonic portrait of the Scottish landscape.
Throughout the album, Suckling's compositions are marked by their intricate textures, subtle harmonies, and a keen sense of narrative. The performances by the BBC Philharmonic and BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra are impeccable, bringing out the full depth and nuance of Suckling's scores. "This Departing Landscape" is not just a debut album but a significant contribution to the world of contemporary classical music, showcasing Martin Suckling as a composer of considerable talent and vision.
Vinylscout