Andy Akiho Sculptures
Andy Akiho; Omaha Symphony
Aki Rhythm Productions ARP-R2004
Akiho responds to nine pieces of oversize sculpture by Jun Kaneko and in many instances plays the artworks percussively. The results are striking, though the handful of live orchestral recordings are sometimes a little overbearing. The vital visual element is obviously missing, but Bronze I and Cylinders rather captivate. (MB) ★★★★
Beethoven String Quartets, Opp 74 & 130
Chiaroscuro Quartet
BIS BIS-2668
The Chiaroscuro Quartet continues its journey through Beethoven’s quartets in two masterpieces from the composer’s middle and later periods. The group’s hallmark delicacy, poise and attention to minute detail are there in spades, with all the range and inventiveness one could wish for. But occasionally I miss a gutsier sound in the more passionate passages. (CS) ★★★★
