Dean: Epitaphs & String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Brett Dean's "Dean: Epitaphs & String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2," a profound exploration of chamber music released in 2015 under the Chandos label. This album is a testament to Dean's exceptional compositional skills, blending poignant narratives with intricate musical structures.

The album opens with "Epitaphs," a series of five moving portraits dedicated to Dean's departed friends, including the renowned conductor Richard Hickox. Each piece in this suite is a delicate homage, evoking the essence of the individuals commemorated. The Doric String Quartet, accompanied by Allison Bell, brings these emotional narratives to life with their nuanced performances.

Following the "Epitaphs," the album delves into Dean's String Quartets. The first quartet, "Eclipse," begins with a slow, spacious movement that gradually builds with harmonics and tremolos, creating a sense of mystery and depth. The second quartet, "And Once I Played Ophelia," is a dynamic journey through various moods and tempos, from breathless urgency to hushed introspection, culminating in a slow, austere finale.

Throughout the album, Brett Dean's compositions showcase his ability to convey complex emotions and stories through chamber music. The Doric String Quartet's precise and expressive playing, coupled with Allison Bell's contributions, makes this album a compelling listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to Dean's work. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute, "Dean: Epitaphs & String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2" is a rich and rewarding exploration of the human experience through the lens of contemporary classical music.