Various - Fumiko Miyachi: Transitional Metal

This is the first showcase portrait album of the very talented Fumiko Miyachi's music for piano duo (played with Halsall), piano solo, chamber ensemble and brass band. Much of the music here is inspired by the Periodic Table of the Elements and displays a crispness, neatness and efficiency of writing, often with a high rhythmic drive and clarity of texture. The album also includes two fascinating settings of Shakespeare Sonnets and the performers are all now or recently associated with the vibrant young community of musicians in Birmingham, England.