Oceana

"This music is distinctive, eclectic and exciting; at once both profound and accessible. Everyone performs well; Dawn Upshaw displays versatility in addition to singing with a luminous quality. Souza's voice is natural and unforced yet powerful. The disc is a good showcase for the range of Golijov's talent; it is also thoroughly enjoyable."
(MusicWeb July 2007)

"Osvaldo Golijov is fast becoming the poster-boy for contemporary composers in the US… This latest collection, of his early work Oceana, Tenebrae for string quartet and a collection of songs, is unforgettable. The title-work, composed as a homage to Bach cantatas, is meticulous in its structure - yet the cumulative effect is of the most gorgeous, sometimes pain-filled vocal waves washing over you. Tenebrae offers contrasting views of the world; from the literally global perspective of space, and from immediate proximity to violence. The fascinating thing is how at times the perspectives merge. And this would not be a Golijov album without the presence of his muse, Dawn Upshaw. It is she who has the last word in the soulful, plangent songs. If this is not yet Golijov's Very Important Work, it's still an album to swoon over."
Recording of the Month - Gramophone Magazine (Sept 2007)

Since his DG debut CD Ayre, Osvaldo Golijov has established himself in the league of the most wanted composers of today. Both his first DG recording Ayre, as well as his opera and second DG release, Ainadamar, received ravishing reviews. His third album again features his muse, the soprano Dawn Upshaw with Three Songs, pieces evoking Strauss, and all beautifully interpreted by Dawn.

Oceana is the key work of this album, a composition for orchestra, three guitars, harp and voice, filled with a Latin and jazz feeling. It is performed by the acclaimed Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra under Robert Spano (also on Ainadamar), and the Brazilian/jazz singer Luciana Souza ("Female Jazz Singer of the Year" in the USA in 2005). This piece was Golijov's first commission of a choral work in the spirit of J.S. Bach and became a source of inspiration for La Pasión según San Marcos (St. Mark Passion), a future release on DG.

Tenebrae is a collaboration with the famous Kronos Quartet - one of the most celebrated and influential ensembles of our time. The meditative work in two movements "is about pain," says Golijov, "but pain seen from inside and from a distance." Despite being Golijov's reflection on today's tormented world, Tenebrae is a work of radiant beauty. It is a lament but at the same time offers consolation and is a prayer for peace.

This album presents Golijov's work from a new perspective and shows his versatility and many interests while not neglecting his characteristic feature of melding different musical styles.