Modus Clarinet Ensemble - Contemporary Portuguese Music 1 Works for Clarinets

Review by Marcus Oliveira

The album "Contemporary Portuguese Music 1 Works for Clarinets" by Modus Clarinet Ensemble is a stunning collection of modern classical music. The ensemble's virtuosity and versatility are on full display as they tackle pieces by some of Portugal's most acclaimed contemporary composers.

The album opens with "Nemesis" by João Pedro Oliveira, a haunting and eerie piece that showcases the ensemble's ability to create a sense of tension and unease through their precise and controlled playing. "Fado" by Carlos Marecos is a beautiful and melancholic tribute to the traditional Portuguese music style, with the clarinets evoking the mournful vocals of a fadista.

The standout piece on the album is "Mare Nostrum" by Eurico Carrapatoso, a sweeping and majestic work that takes the listener on a musical journey through the Mediterranean. The ensemble's dynamic range is particularly impressive on this piece, as they seamlessly transition from gentle, melodic passages to thunderous, bombastic sections.

Summary by Marcus Oliveira

"Contemporary Portuguese Music 1 Works for Clarinets" is a must-listen for anyone interested in modern classical music. Modus Clarinet Ensemble's technical proficiency and musicality are unparalleled, and the composers featured on the album have created works that are both challenging and deeply rewarding.