Dive into the vibrant and captivating world of Mark-Anthony Turnage with his compelling album "Turnage: Mambo, Blues and Tarantella." This collection, released on October 1, 2012, under the London Philharmonic Orchestra label, is the third and final volume of Turnage's music to be released on the LPO Label, marking the culmination of his residency with the orchestra from 2005 to 2010. The album features five works recorded for the first time, including the world premiere performance of his violin concerto "Mambo, Blues and Tarantella," performed by the renowned soloist Christian Tetzlaff.
The album spans a rich and diverse range of compositions, showcasing Turnage's unique voice and his ability to blend classical structures with contemporary energy. The violin concerto "Mambo, Blues and Tarantella" is a standout piece, with its three movements—Mambo, Blues, and Tarantella—each offering a distinct mood and rhythm. The concerto begins with a lively and arresting Mambo, moves into a moody and expressive Blues, and concludes with a Tarantella that is both obsessive and energetic.
Other highlights include "On Opened Ground," a concerto for viola and orchestra, and "Texan Tenebrae," both of which are recorded here for the first time. "Riffs and Refrains" offers a contrasting pair of movements, from the light and skittish "Refrains" to the slow and expressive "Arioso." The album also features "Lullaby for Hans," a tender and intimate piece that adds a touch of warmth to the collection.
With a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a testament to Mark-Anthony Turnage's status as a composer of international stature. His compositions are accessible yet complex, tough yet unmistakably his own. Whether you're a longtime fan of Turnage's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling introduction to his distinctive style and his enduring collaboration with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Vinylscout