The fourth volume showcasing striking contemporary classical works by  selected living composers, "Masterworks of the New Era" makes a priority of compiling exceptionally engaging complementary pieces. This volume appeals to the academic scholar as well as a dabbler in new music precisely because there is a consistent, certain accessibility to the works- the ability to follow harmonically and thematically the composers' intent and the pieces' development is well established without comprimising the adventurous and bold spirit built into the trends of contemporary composition. While many of these pieces elude a key center, there is a real tangible, comprehendible progression within the works so that while functional harmony may not be the structure upon which these works are moving, there is an apparent meaning and vision to the music, a quality which engrosses the listener, no matter how tangential or variable the progressions may be. Each one of these works is notably compelling with vivid, striking orchestration and imaginative evolution. Stated simply, this is an extraordinary compilation.
                            Read more...