John McCabe's Symphonies 2 & 3 and Cello Concerto Reviewed

An album featuring the late pianist and composer John McCabe's Symphony No. 2, Symphony No. 3 (Hommages), and his 2007 cello concerto Songline has been released, with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra conducted by Kenneth Woods and cello soloist Raphael Wallfisch. The recordings provide overdue premieres for the Symphony No. 3 and the cello concerto, both completed after the Symphony No. 2 which was finished in 1971.

The Symphony No. 2 is described as tense and edgy, exploring the cyclical nature of violence. The cello concerto, Songline, draws inspiration from ancient Aboriginal pathways and is characterized by a restless, searching quality that Raphael Wallfisch captures effectively. A notable aspect of both works, according to the review, is the lucidity of McCabe's compositions, with textures remaining clearly defined despite writing of significant color and scope.

McCabe's Symphony No. 3, titled Hommages, presents a lusher soundscape. This symphony intricately weaves references to composers like Haydn and Nielsen, while also venturing into other musical territories. One particular passage featuring muted strings and celeste is likened to Shostakovich reimagined through the lens of Richard Strauss's Der Rosenkavalier. The review highlights the vivid energy and expressiveness of the performances, asserting that they do justice to all three compositions.