Rolf Martinsson - Garden of Devotion (LP)

Rolf Martinsson's "Garden of Devotion" is a captivating journey through a rich tapestry of musical compositions, released on Challenge Classics on February 8, 2019. This album spans a generous 78 minutes, offering a diverse collection of works that showcase Martinsson's versatility and depth as a composer.

The album opens with the five-movement "Garden of Devotion, Op. 97," a piece that explores themes of love, longing, and introspection. Each movement, from the tender "Trust Love" to the poignant "Lest I Should Know," invites the audience into a deeply personal and evocative musical landscape.

Following this, the album presents "A. S. in Memoriam, Op. 50a," a reflective and somber piece that pays tribute to a lost soul. The five-movement "Till skuggan av en verklighet, Op. 96" then takes the audience on a journey through various emotional states, from the serene "Morgon" to the comforting "Du är min renaste tröst."

The album continues with the single-track "Landscape, Op. 84," a piece that paints a vivid musical portrait of nature's beauty. The final and most extensive work on the album is "Kalliope, Op. 66," a nine-movement suite that draws inspiration from the muses of Greek mythology. Each movement, from the majestic "Calliope Intrada" to the lively "Thalia," offers a unique musical interpretation of these mythological figures.

Throughout "Garden of Devotion," Rolf Martinsson's mastery of composition and orchestration shines, creating a compelling and engaging listening experience that highlights his unique voice in the world of classical music.