Roger Sessions / Colin McPhee, Howard Hanson, Eastman-Rochester Orchestra - The Black Maskers / Tabuh-Tabuhan (LP)

Roger Sessions opens The Black Maskers with dense textures and bold rhythms that push the orchestra into tense dramatic motion. His music reflects American modernism full of conflict and emotional complexity shaped by dissonant harmonies. This work evolves with a dark theatrical sense reminiscent of his early compositions. It builds a suspenseful atmosphere that anchors the album with bold orchestral force.

Colin McPhee’s Tabuh-Tabuhan fuses Balinese gamelan and Western classical music into a rhythmic colorful blend. Written after years in Bali it captures the sounds of gamelan through layered orchestration. His use of counterpoint and percussion creates a dance-like flow full of energy. The piece offers a joyful vivid contrast to Sessions' brooding intensity.

The Eastman-Rochester Orchestra under Howard Hanson delivers both works with expert precision and tonal balance. Hanson known for his lush neo-romantic style brings clarity to complex modern scores. His conducting highlights both composers’ unique voices and emotional range. The orchestra captures intricate details and powerful dynamics throughout.

Released by Mercury Records the album stands out for its high-quality sound and bold programming choices. It pairs two distinct American composers linked by innovation and orchestral mastery. Their styles contrast yet complement through mood and rhythmic vision. This release remains a vital document of twentieth-century classical and cross-cultural composition.