Volume 28, No. 2, October 2009

REVIEWS records

DECOUPAGE

Stephen Robinson, guitar

Clear Note Publications

M.D. PUJOL:  Sonatine. L. BOCCHERINI: Grave Assai - Fandango. P. TREMBLAY: Deux Pieces. I.  ALBENIZ: Torre Bermeja. Y. YOCOH: Sakura - Theme and Variations. J. S.  BACH: Prelude. Fugue and Allegro. F. TARREGA: Recuerdos de la Alhambra. C. DeBLASIO: God Is Our Righteousness.

In this eclectic programme, the American guitarist Stephen Robinson plays music from South America, Italy, the USA, Canada, Spain, Japan and Germany.  These works from differing cultures and eras were the inspiration behind the title;  'Decoupage’ being the ancient art of beautifying objects using many varied  and different layers of colourful decorations. This is all very appropriate as, from a musical viewpoint; this CD has to be one of the most attractive ones I’ve listened to in quite a while.  Robinson’s musicianship is of the highest calibre, his effortless technique allowing him the freedom to do with this music just about anything he wants and what he does do is exceptionally good from every angle. This is music making of high order.

Highlights include the infrequently-performed Pujol  three-movement Sonatine, the finale from Boccherini’s Quintet No. 4 G448 in  which Robinson is joined by his fellow countryman Boyd Jones on harpsichord;  and the superb Prelude, Fugue and Allegro in which Robinson gives a truly  bravura rendition of the final.  In the interest stakes’ the absolute pinnacle though must go to the last item from American composer Chris DeBlasio with his relatively lengthy God Is Our Righteousness for guitar and organ and composed for Advent observance. The two instruments of guitar and organ (and  we’re talking large church organ here) seem on the surface entirely  mismatched, one imagines the disproportionate timbres between the two would be  an unconvincing pairing but the skill of the composer has won through and here  is an outstandingly beautiful and moving work. Once again Robinson is joined by Boyd Jones.

The performances throughout are all highly committed and the sound engineer has done his job well. Very highly recommended.
                                       Steve Marsh, Classical Guitar

Ashley Mark Publishing Company, United Kingdom