Steve Elcock - Steve Elcock: Orchestral Music, Vol. 1 (LP)

Steve Elcock: Orchestral Music, Vol. 1 is a groundbreaking debut album showcasing the works of English composer Steve Elcock, born in 1957 and residing in France. This album, released on September 1, 2017, under the Toccata Classics label, is the first-ever recording of Elcock's orchestral music, performed by the renowned Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Paul Mann.

The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, featuring seven tracks that include Elcock's dark and titanic Symphony No. 3, Op. 16, and his evocative work "Choses renversées par le temps ou la destruction, Op. 20." Elcock's distinctive style, often compared to composers like Sibelius, Honegger, Walton, and Arnold, is characterized by its edgy harmonies and menacing mood, yet it also reveals cheerful themes beneath the surface.

This collection is a testament to Elcock's self-taught prowess and his ability to create music of awesome power and majesty, despite his lack of formal conservatoire training. The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra's performance captures the unstoppable energy and brilliance of Elcock's compositions, making this album a significant addition to the classical music repertoire. Whether you're a longtime fan of orchestral music or a newcomer to the genre, Steve Elcock: Orchestral Music, Vol. 1 offers a compelling exploration of a unique and uncompromising musical voice.