Labour of Love

Some albums are hard to connect to, no matter how interesting their concept may be. “A Due” by Clarinetist Kari Kriikku and Cellist Anssi Karttunen is such a case. “A Due” is a collection of pieces written especially for this extremely unusual instrumental combination. Accordingly, these are all special commissions, most of which were first  performed at a concert in Warsaw in the year 1990 – which will go down in history books if the clarinet/cello constellation turns out to become immensely popular some day (don't count on it for the next 100 years or so, though). There's a whole lot to be said for this CD, published by Ondine in a quasi-visionary move (and as part of their long-term commitment to new music). Next to the daring nature of the duo, the album also acts as a concise summary of Finnish composition in the 20th century, including work by Erik Bergman and Paavo Heininen. It's a fascinating listen at times, but one which requires utmost concentration and sometimes has an uneasy avantgarde touch to it. I'm strangely torn apart between dedication and rejection here – two strong sentiments, admittedly. If anyone knows of a similar experience, feel free to share.

By Tobias Fischer