Giovanni Sollima's "Onyricon" is a captivating exploration of minimalism, released under Universal Music Italia in 2015. This concise yet impactful album spans just 41 minutes, featuring a blend of solo and ensemble performances that showcase Sollima's virtuosic cello playing and compositional prowess.
The album opens with the "Concerto Rotondo for Solo Cello," a four-movement piece that highlights Sollima's technical skill and expressive depth. The second half of the album is dedicated to "La Sostanza dei Sogni for Six Cellos," a seven-movement work that delves into a variety of moods and textures, from the dreamy "Gianmaria’s Dream" to the rhythmic "Geology Dance Piece." Each piece is meticulously crafted, offering a unique listening experience that draws the audience in.
Sollima's ability to blend minimalist structures with rich, evocative melodies makes "Onyricon" a standout in the contemporary classical genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sollima's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling journey through the possibilities of the cello and the power of minimalism.