Maxwell Davies, P.: Naxos Quartets Nos. 7 and 8

Dive into the intricate world of contemporary classical music with Peter Maxwell Davies' "Naxos Quartets Nos. 7 and 8," a captivating exploration of string quartet composition. Released in 2007 under the esteemed Naxos label, this album features the Maggini Quartet's masterful interpretation of Davies' seventh and eighth quartets, offering a rich and immersive experience that spans over an hour and twelve minutes.

The seventh quartet, titled "Metafore sul Borromini," is a homage to the renowned Italian architect Francesco Borromini. Each of its seven movements is named after one of Borromini's architectural masterpieces, reflecting the composer's deep appreciation for the Baroque era's artistic and architectural achievements. The quartet's slow tempos and intricate textures create a sense of contemplation and reverence, inviting the listener to explore the intersections of music and architecture.

The eighth quartet, on the other hand, stands in stark contrast to its predecessor. With its more dynamic and expressive character, it showcases Davies' versatility as a composer and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional string quartet writing.

Throughout the album, Davies' distinctive compositional voice shines through, characterized by its rhythmic complexity, harmonic richness, and profound expressiveness. The Maggini Quartet's virtuoso performance brings out the full depth and nuance of Davies' scores, making this album an essential addition to any contemporary classical music enthusiast's collection.