I've made connections with Meredith Monk. Looking back to our interview in lockdown, her stupendous gigs at the Southbank, and even in Cardiff at Llais Festival, there is a clear lineage to her work. With this album release party now underway for Realms, Phaedra Ensemble offered up some of Monk's rare and newer pieces.
"Jewish Storyteller", "Dance", and "Dream" are all taken from Book of Days, her clever take on a documentary set in medieval times, complete with vox pops and interviews scattered throughout. These chirpy a cappella movements have a bounce you can easily recognise as Monk. Still, I rest on the notion that her vocal work is stronger than her orchestral or chamber writing. "Stringsongs" is a quartet that is tender and had a spirit all its own. Was I grabbed by it? Not really, but I can appreciate it.
On violin and viola was Phillip Granell, who introduced some of the work and plugged the album release. With his playing and the ensemble, this was a collaborative effort with much to praise. Meredith could not be here with us in London, though a brief recording from her famous New York loft was typically wry and delightful. "Backlight" expanded on this instrumental palette with a few more players joining the stage. Again, I doubt I would engage intensely with this further on; the suggestion of insights and memories floated around us.
"Realm Variations" saw even more musicians on stage and finally more singers. Perhaps the most accessible and joyful out of the lot, it had momentum for passages, losing it in others. The visuals and production of Jamie Hamilton saw vivid black and white photos of cliffs, shadows, and clouds, adding somewhat to the pot.
I'd strongly encourage those who don't know of Meredith to listen to the new album and check out her earlier work, which spans over sixty years.
The Meredith Monk Realms album is available to stream on all platforms now. Also available to buy as a CD or digital download on Bandcamp.
Review: James Ellis Photo: King's Place