Empire Brass - Class Brass: Fire Dance (LP)

"Class Brass: Fire Dance" by Empire Brass is a captivating journey through a diverse range of classical and folk music, all masterfully arranged for brass quintet by Richard Smedvig and Kenneth Amis. Released in 1999 under the Telarc label, this album spans a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, featuring 22 tracks that showcase the Empire Brass's exceptional skill and versatility.

The album opens with Maurice Ravel's iconic "Boléro," a piece that sets the stage for the virtuosic performances that follow. From Ludwig van Beethoven's "Turkish March" to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's "Romeo and Juliet: Morning Dance," the Empire Brass navigates through a rich tapestry of musical styles and periods. The inclusion of traditional Irish tunes like "Kesh - Kid on the Mountain" and Béla Bartók's "Bagpipe Music" adds a folk flavor to the classical repertoire.

Notable highlights include the intricate arrangements of Modest Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" and Manuel de Falla's "El Amor Brujo: Ritual Fire Dance," which lend a dramatic and rhythmic intensity to the album. The Empire Brass's rendition of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "Rondo alla turca" is equally impressive, showcasing their ability to bring fresh energy to well-known compositions.

"Class Brass: Fire Dance" is a testament to the Empire Brass's technical prowess and artistic sensitivity. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a delightful and engaging listening experience. The Empire Brass's interpretations of these timeless pieces are both faithful to the original compositions and innovative in their approach, making this album a standout in their discography.