Matthews: The Great Journey, Fuga & Night's Mask

Colin Matthews' "The Great Journey, Fuga & Night's Mask" is a compelling collection of works that showcases the composer's versatility and depth. Released on NMC Recordings in 2012, this album spans a little over an hour and features three distinct compositions that highlight Matthews' ability to blend narrative, atmosphere, and musical innovation.

The centerpiece of the album is "The Great Journey," a panoramic and forceful narrative that recounts a 16th-century Spanish expedition to America. This multi-part work is a testament to Matthews' skill in creating a vivid and engaging musical story, with each section painting a vivid picture of the journey's trials and tribulations.

Complementing "The Great Journey" are two shorter but equally captivating pieces. "Fuga," a scherzo, is a lively and energetic interlude that provides a contrast to the more expansive narrative of the title piece. "Night's Mask," a darkly atmospheric setting of Fernando Pessoa's brooding sonnet, showcases Matthews' ability to create a sense of mood and introspection through music.

Performed by the esteemed Nash Ensemble and featuring vocalists David Wilson-Johnson and Patrizia Kwella, this album is a testament to the power of collaboration and the richness that can be achieved when words and music come together. Whether you're a fan of narrative music, atmospheric soundscapes, or simply looking to explore the work of a talented composer, "The Great Journey, Fuga & Night's Mask" is an album that promises to captivate and inspire.