Alberto Posadas - Sombras (LP)

Dive into the enigmatic world of Alberto Posadas' "Sombras," a captivating cycle for voice, clarinet, and string quartet that explores the depths of darkness and light. Released on Naïve Classique in 2017, this album is a testament to Posadas' unique compositional voice, which he has likened to navigating a labyrinth. The five-movement suite, performed by the renowned Quatuor Diotima and featuring soloists Alain Billard and Delphine Haidan, is a mesmerizing journey through contrasting textures and timbres.

"Sombras" opens with "Elogio de la Sombra," a string quartet piece that sets the stage for the cycle's exploration of shadow and light. The cycle continues with "Tránsito I" and "Tránsito II," which feature the soprano and clarinet in dialogue with the string quartet. The album concludes with "La Tentación de las Sombras" and "Del Reflejo de la Sombra," both of which showcase the full ensemble in a rich tapestry of sound.

Born in Valladolid, Spain, Alberto Posadas studied composition in Madrid with Francisco Guerrero. His work is known for its intricate structures and evocative atmospheres, and "Sombras" is no exception. With its haunting melodies and intricate harmonies, this album is a compelling addition to any contemporary classical music collection. The album's duration is 1 hour and 15 minutes, providing a substantial and immersive listening experience.