Howard Skempton: Ben Somewhen

Howard Skempton's "Ben Somewhen," released on July 1, 2015, under NMC Recordings, is a captivating exploration of minimalism and choral music that spans a little over an hour and fifteen minutes. This album showcases Skempton's unique ability to blend simplicity with profound depth, offering a diverse collection of pieces that range from chamber concertos to choral works.

The album opens with the four-movement Chamber Concerto, each section revealing Skempton's intricate compositional style, from the bold "Con bravura" to the tender "Teneramente." The Clarinet Quintet follows, with its three movements displaying a delicate interplay between the clarinet and strings. Skempton's choral works, such as "The Voice of the Spirits" and the four-part "Rise Up, My Love," highlight his mastery of vocal writing, evoking a sense of timelessness and serenity.

The Suite from Delicate is a standout, with its six movements offering a journey through varied textures and moods, from the pulsating "Pulse" to the reflective "Solo." The album concludes with "Ben Somewhen," a piece that encapsulates Skempton's ability to create music that is both introspective and universally resonant.

"Ben Somewhen" is a testament to Howard Skempton's enduring contribution to contemporary classical music, offering listeners a rich and immersive experience that highlights his distinctive voice in the minimalist and choral genres.