Lewis Spratlan - When Crows Gather (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of Lewis Spratlan's "When Crows Gather," a compelling collection of contemporary classical music released on February 1, 2005, under Albany Records. This album, spanning 1 hour and 17 minutes, features 14 tracks that showcase Spratlan's unique compositional voice and his ability to craft intricate, engaging musical narratives.

The album opens with the evocative title track, "When Crows Gather," setting the stage for a journey through Spratlan's musical landscape. The "Concertino" suite, comprising three movements, offers a delightful contrast with its playful "Giocoso," reflective "Andante," and lively "Mazurka Finale." The centerpiece of the album is the seven-movement work "Of Time and the Seasons," a sweeping exploration of time, nature, and human experience. Each movement paints a vivid picture, from the introspective "Prologue" to the dramatic "The Muster" and the haunting "Embers."

The album concludes with "Zoom," a three-part suite that delves into the complexities of modern life with pieces like "Bipolar Serenade" and "Holes." Throughout the album, Spratlan's mastery of form and harmony is evident, making "When Crows Gather" a standout in the contemporary classical genre. Performed by the esteemed Ensemble Sequitur under the direction of Paul Hostetter, this album is a testament to Spratlan's artistic vision and the ensemble's virtuosity.