CD Review - Lyrical Virtuoso

Today marks the day that Steven Mead releases his latest CD aptly titled 'Lyrical Virtuoso'. I am always excited when Steven Mead releases anything new as the product is always guaranteed to be superbly designed and well thought out.

In recent years Steve has lead the way in producing a high quality cardboard and plastic case something which I particular enjoy as it not only saves room in my CD cabinet but fits nicely into my car which seems to be filled up with mostly bulky plastic CD cases.

What I enjoy most about Steven Mead's CD's is a quality presentation found throughout every aspect of the CD  both in choice of music, booklet design (which serves as a handy reference for recital programming) and case design. 'Lyrical Virtuoso' is no exception this eye-catching design really presents Steve's classy style in true graphic design.

'Lyrical Virtuoso' was recorded in Belgium on 1st-3rd July 2016 with Brass Band Buizingen with conductor Luc Vertommen.

The CD comes in at a whopping 79:37 minutes with the following varied track list.

La Corrida de Toros - David Bandman/Luc Vertommen  5.20

Sérenade Napolitaine - Ruggero Leoncavallo/Vertommen  2.14

Euphonium Concerto No.1 - John Golland  17.16

The Auld Noost - Ronald Jamieson/Anthony Swainson  4.43

Capriccio di Niccolò - Frank Proto/Luc Vertommen  16.10

Michelangelo - Sigvart Dagsland/Frode Rydland  5.09

Mayfly Blues - Stan Nieuwenhuis  7.42

In Gardens of Peace - Philip Harper   5.27

Rondo-La Campanella (from Violin Concerto No. 2) – Niccolò Paganini/Luc Vertommen  6.27

Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen (I Am Lost To The World) - Gustav Mahler/Luc Vertommen 6.26

The CD opens with the highly rhythmical Spanish style 'La Corrida de Toros' which translates to literally mean running of the bulls. The range of the solo covers 4 octaves and is exceptional with its demands placed on the soloist, it opens the CD with a bang and leaves the listener with no doubts as to Steve's unique virtuosic ability.

'Serenade Napolitaine' slows the tone of the CD, during this love song "the troubadour sings for his beloved and begs her to receive his confession and answer his prayers because life is to love". Steve's beautiful natural vocal sound really creates a performance of merit

Following this serene melody Steve next performs the classic 'Euphonium Concerto No.1' written by John Golland. This classic concerto which is rarely played is given a new lease of life in Steve's performance. The music is divided into three very separate movements without breaks, each movement has a clearly defined nature with specific characteristics really making this an autobiographical work highlighting the physical difficulties that the composer suffered for all of his life. The final movement sees a joyous outcome in the music. It is great to see this performance made possible with support of the John Golland Trust.

'The Auld Noost' is perhaps one of my favorite works on the CD. With 'Noost' being the Shetland work for a rocky creek, this superb melody was originally conceived as a work for fiddle before being arranged for Steven. This beautiful melody will really be a popular work for Euphonium players in the near future.

'Capriccio di Niccolo' is the second major work featured on the album and based on the famous Paganini theme. This captivating tune is sure to be a popular amongst only the hardiest of euphonium players.

'Michelangelo' was a work that I originally heard played by Steve during a concert in Germany in 2013. This work has already become popular amongst euphonium players with numerous recordings featuring this work however Steve brings his own unique stamp to the work which creates a special atmosphere.

'Mayfly Blues' was originally commissioned for Australian Baritone Virtuoso Kristy Rowe and premiered in Linz, Austria at ITEC in June 2012. Mayfly Blues tells the rather traumatic story of the short life of a Mayfly during its one day of life. The middle movement of this solo is a real highlight with the slow reflective melody reflecting with sadness the purpose of the life of a mayfly, the act of reproduction for which his life will end.

'In Gardens of Peace' is a piece that is very close to my heard and it has been a total privilege to have had this track chosen for such a special CD recording. A performance which is forever immortalized and one which I will treasure for the rest of my life. Steve's performance brings a tranquility to the music and one which really presents the true human sacrifice of those killed during The Battle of the Somme.

'Rondo-La Campenella' is well known as Niccola Paganini Second Violin Concerto composed in 1826. This ultimate workout has to be heard to be believed. This solo is testament to Steve's many hours of practice to achieve such technical peaks. A true work of magnificence.

'Ich bin der welt abhanden gekommen' finishes this exciting album in calm reflection in what could be described as one of the most gorgeous songs in the history of classical music. Luc Vertommen captures the colors which is a very rare achievement when exploring Mahlers fragile orchestration.

This CD is a creation of true brilliance that I have come to expect from every Mead CD. To round off this truly amazing CD is a vital must have for any euphonium player the promotion of new works and arrangements are going to open the eyes to the amazing repertoire that the euphonium currently has. This CD is going to bring me many hours of joy as I play it in the car during the coming weeks to and from work.