DCD 037 - New Year, New Releases

We start off 2008 with a pair of new releases with episode #37 of the "DCD Classical 'Cast."

"Imagen" is classical guitarist Steve Lin's first full-length album, but not his debut recording. He was the co-winner of the Boston GuitarFest, and shared the subsequent prize -- a release on VGo Recordings -- with Joseph Williams II. We featured selections from that CD back in program #24.

Lin's new release showcases the composers and works that he enjoys playing the most -- and it shows.

Our other new release is from Troubadisc. This label has been producing quality chamber music recordings since 1991, and last year moved to SACD format-only releases. They start 2008 with their first choral recording, and Troubadisc's fine recording experience make this an SACD that's a real pleasure to listen to.

Titled "Orthodox Voices" after ensemble performing, the album is a recital of contemporary sacred music by Estonian composers. These a capella atmospheric compositions make for a rewarding listening experience. While our podcast is a 192kbps MP3, we can't really do justice to the full range of expression audible on this recording. But at least you'll be able to judge the quality of the compositions themselves.

- Ralph

This program we play:

Benito Canónigos : El Totuma
Steve Lin, guitar
VGo Recordings

Velja Tormis: At the Crossroads
Orthodox Singers; Valery Petrov, conductor
Troubadisc

Antonio Lauro: Vals Venezolano IV "Yacambu"
Steve Lin, guitar
VGo Recordings

Arvo Part: Ode IV
Orthodox Singers; Valery Petrov, conductor
Troubadisc

Agustín Barrios Mangoré: Una Limosna por el Amor de Dios
Steve Lin, guitar
VGo Recordings