Library Recommendation: Lubomyr Melnyk – Fallen Trees

Released: 2018

Label: Erased Tapes

Genre: New Classical
 
Melnyk is often described as the world’s fastest pianist. He’s recorded an astounding 19-plus notes per second, simultaneously with both hands. This is misleading though; it suggests a degree of aggression that is entirely absent from his work. Instead, this tightly packed, continuous approach to the piano produces waves of acoustic sound that are remarkably peaceful.
 
That is not to say his work is always comforting. This new album’s “Requiem For a Fallen Tree” is an example of how emotionally draining his work is at times. An earlier piece — 1983’s “Concert-Requiem for Violin and Piano” — was “dedicated to the victims of the Bolshevik terrorism in 1933.” It is deeply touching. Exclaim!