The Allan Spencer Mallet Choir – Saturday Morning Coffee

HERE’S WHAT WE DUG MOST…

Opening with Badinerie, BWV1067, the initial impression is that the marimba is essentially music-box-ifying this work – but the reality is a bit more complex than that. Indeed, the bell-like tones of the marimba do offer a simpler sonic texture than, say, that of a violin, but it’s this specific feature that allows this piece to be heard in a new light. Different sections of the melody become highlighted, harmonic lines seem to resonate in a different way – it creates an entirely different topographical map of sound than that of the original composition.

And these features are continuously present throughout the album. In Sonata No. 11 in A Major (a piece incredibly well-suited to this arrangement), we’re treated to a dose of marimba dynamics – they are subtle, but they are effective – as well as plenty of performance intricacies that further solidify the fact that these are three musicians with an inordinate amount of talent.

In many modern presentations, the marimba is written as a “happy” instrument, but there are many instances on this album where the group explores its more melancholy side, Prelude No. 4 in E Minor being the most notable. The staccato nature of mallet percussion allows room to breathe between each note of both the main melody and the supporting instrumentation, much like that of the original piano but with a more pointed, rhythmic approach.

The bouncing, playful character of Humoresque, Op. 101, No. 7 feels like a near-perfect inclusion on this project. The work itself mirrors the innate sounds of the marimba, and as a result the group effortlessly recreates that lighthearted energy, if not even elevating it further.

We also love Italian Concerto, Bwv 971 for its cascading, unending lines of movement, as well as Flower Duet for its showcase of the gentler side of both the performers and their instruments, replicating the original vocal lines with agility and ease.

OUR FAVORITE TRACK…

Of all the tracks on this collection that seem least suited to this instrumental shift, Loch Lomond felt as though it would be high on the list. This classic Scottish melody is full of long, warm, droning notes, which is a sound the marimba is not exactly known for producing. But the trio has tackled this track with elegance, grace, and flair, breathing somber, tremolo-rich energy into this emotive piece. The melody is given movement and vibration in place of its traditional smoothness, but it retains the regality and somber flair that the original possesses. It’s a captivating take on a classic that is rarely recreated in such a unique and unexpected way.

IN CONCLUSION…

A stunning combination of instrumental simplicity and performance complexity. The kind of work that could only be put together by a musician’s musician, and with a thorough and unquestionable understanding of theory and composition as well. These classical works on Saturday Morning Coffee shine with ingenuity in the deft hands of The Allan Spencer Mallet Choir. It’s the epitome of reimagining in a way that makes sense – the right pieces chosen, the right sections highlighted, the right musicians performing. For anyone with an appreciation of classical works taken outside of the box, there is true enjoyment abounding on Saturday Morning Coffee.

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