William Thomas McKinley - William Thomas McKinley: R.A.P (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of contemporary classical music with William Thomas McKinley's "R.A.P.," a compelling album released in July 2010 under the BMOP/sound label. This album is a testament to McKinley's innovative compositional style, featuring three distinct works that showcase his mastery of rhythm and pulse.

The album opens with the Marimba Concerto "Childhood Memories," a piece completed in 2005 that evokes nostalgic memories through its intricate marimba melodies. This concerto is performed multiple times, each iteration offering a unique interpretation and depth. Following this, the album presents "R.A.P.," a dynamic concerto for clarinet, piano, and jazz orchestra that blends classical and jazz elements seamlessly. The final work, "13 Dances for Orchestra," is a suite of dances that explore a variety of moods and textures, showcasing the versatility of the orchestra.

Conducted by Gil Rose and performed by the Boston Modern Orchestra Project, this album is a rich tapestry of sounds that will appeal to both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, "R.A.P." is a comprehensive exploration of McKinley's musical vision, offering a diverse range of compositions that highlight his unique voice in the world of contemporary classical music.