Missy Mazzoli – Vespers for a New Dark Age
Victoire; Glenn Kotche; Lorna Dune
New Amsterdam Records NWAM062
Missy Mazzoli is a young American composer based in New York who continues to receive critical acclaim for her concert works. This release contains a new piece, Vespers for a New Dark Age, for female voices and instrumental ensemble that was commissioned by Carnegie Hall for the 2014 Ecstatic Music Festival. The music is set to fragments of text by poet Matthew Zapruder replacing the sacred vesper text. It is interesting to note that in traditional Catholic liturgy, the Vespers are to be sung as evening prayer at sunset. Further, Mazzoli describes the piece as, “…distorted, wild, blasphemous...” However, despite brief moments in the text that only occasionally reveal mildly blasphemous suggestions, the music, on the contrary, is full of light and optimism, a mood that remains relatively unvaried throughout the piece. While the work is divided into nine movements, the listener is treated to a continuous unfolding of broad and lyrical vocal weavings floating above punchy percussion rhythms and edgy folk-like violin gestures. At times, we hear passages containing obvious reminiscences of 1970s progressive rock akin to bands like Yes or Genesis. Any abrasiveness in the music is quickly balanced with soaring vocal washes that shimmer and infuse the music with a crystalline sheen. Perhaps the strongest section of the piece occurs in the seventh movement, providing the listener with a striking contrast to the rest of the piece stylistically. In this movement, the dramatic harmonies in the vocal part seem to occupy a different sonic environment than previously heard. This piece is a strong statement from a composer who is comfortable writing to the strengths of the performers she is working with. This music is perfect for those seeking a moment of respite and release within a contemplative and reflective listening experience.
