Isata Kanneh-Mason - Summertime (LP)

Isata Kanneh-Mason, the acclaimed young pianist, presents her debut album "Summertime," a captivating exploration of classical repertoire that showcases her extraordinary talent and versatility. Released on July 9, 2021, under Decca Music Group Ltd., this album is a testament to Kanneh-Mason's artistic maturity and her ability to breathe new life into both well-known and lesser-heard pieces.

The album opens with a grand fantasy on Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess," followed by a series of virtuoso etudes and nocturnes that demonstrate Kanneh-Mason's technical prowess and expressive depth. The heart of the album lies in her powerful interpretation of Chopin's Piano Sonata in E-Flat Minor, Op. 26, a work that reveals her emotional resonance and dynamic control.

Kanneh-Mason also pays homage to American spirituals and folk songs, including arrangements of "Deep River" and "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child," showcasing her ability to connect with the soul of the music. The album concludes with a lively rendition of "The Bamboula," a Creole dance tune, adding a touch of rhythmic exuberance to the collection.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, "Summertime" is a rich and varied journey through the classical genre, highlighting Isata Kanneh-Mason's remarkable artistry and her promise as one of the most exciting pianists of her generation.