Early this year, we were treated a deep dive into the excellent work of composer Brian Field on his release Vocal Works, a project we found to “push beyond boundaries and explore complexities both in music and in societal issues“. This June, Field returns with another jaw-dropping composition. Conducted by Mihail Agafita and performed by the Symphonic Orchestra of Moldova, the thirteen-minute track Kaleidoscope is as enchanting, mysterious, and dynamic as its namesake.
Like the toy itself, Kaleidoscope instantly immerses the listener in a world of texture and movement. A xylophonic introduction accompanied by deep bass notes, it doesn’t take long for this track’s initial section to bloom into a flowing, haunting arrangement. From this we transition into a brass-heavy, regal moment, followed by a fantastical soundscape of soaring melodies. Keeping with the theme, each musical section present in this composition flows seamlessly from one into the next, even as the cadence and tone change markedly as things progress. Field’s composition carries us deftly through moments of high tension and suspense, of tentative and wholehearted victory, and of deep wonder and intrigue, to name but a few.
A standout moment comes in the final third of the track. By minute eight we find ourselves surrounded by unsettled, anxious melodies – one conjuring images of frantic running, of attempted escape, and the following suggesting themes of capture and militaristic rigidity through the track’s ninth minute. As we arrive at minute ten, for a moment we think we’ll be granted respite from the unease, but it only grows in intensity – until we reach the apex of percussion and energy at 11:40. The drums burst through with confidence, a major melody hot on its heels and resolution resounding. Field’s ability to create arrangements with such emotional ferocity is a remarkable trait, no doubt holding the rapt attention of even the most casual listener.
As the physical kaleidoscope is a cinematic journey for the eyes, Kaleidoscope is a sonic journey for the ears. Brian Field‘s unending ability to truly paint with sound – and to fully submerge his audience in a world of his own making – is nothing short of captivating. Field continues to prove that his lengthy list of accolades is nothing short of fully deserved and that his work should no doubt stand as some of the most remarkable modern compositions being produced today.
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BELOW: Listen to Kaleidoscope and connect with his website and social media platforms. Please support Brian Field by visiting him online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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