Search - Brian Banks, Kevin Doe, Erik Jespersen :: Octagon, Vol. 2

An insider's view

silverwheelmusic | Silicon Valley, CA USA | 10/04/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is the second recording made by the Octagon Ensemble, made up of musicians auditioned from the entire University of California system for the purpose of performing and recording new music by California composers. I'm Polly Moller -- I was a member of Octagon and I play flute on this CD.
My favorite track on Octagon Vol. II is "Totem" by Steve Jespersen. I didn't play on this track, but I always looked forward to hearing it on our concert tour. The setting of the Sylvia Plath poetry was beautifully interpreted by Erica Turrell (who was one of my roommates on the tour), and the haunting instrumental writing gives me chills to this day.
Of the pieces I personally played on, I like "Lullaby" by Timothy Melbinger the best. Erica Turrell was our vocal soloist for this one as well.
In short, the CD is the result of a year-long endeavor by some very accomplished musicians and represents some beautiful work by some talented composers from California. You should check it out. :)"