Dive into the captivating world of contemporary classical music with Lewis Spratlan's "When Crows Gather and Other Works," a compelling album released in 2005 under Albany Records. This album, spanning approximately 77 minutes, showcases Spratlan's mastery of composition and his ability to weave intricate narratives through sound.
The album opens with the title track, "When Crows Gather," a piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection with its evocative and atmospheric composition. Following this, the album delves into the three-movement "Concertino," each section offering a distinct mood and musical landscape, from the playful "Giocoso" to the reflective "Andante" and the lively "Mazurka Finale."
A significant portion of the album is dedicated to the seven-part suite "Of Time and the Seasons," a profound exploration of the passage of time and the changing of seasons. Each movement within this suite tells a story, from the introspective "Prologue" to the dramatic "The Muster" and the haunting "Embers."
The album concludes with "Zoom," a three-part piece that contrasts sharply with the preceding works, offering a more intimate and personal musical experience. The final movement, "Jingle Without Words," provides a whimsical and playful conclusion to the album.
Lewis Spratlan's "When Crows Gather and Other Works" is a testament to his skill as a composer, offering a rich and varied listening experience that will appeal to fans of contemporary classical music. The album's diverse range of compositions ensures that there is something for every listener, from the dramatic and powerful to the delicate and introspective.