World-renowned master accordionist Guy Klucevsek joins with the string trio Bantam Orchestra on his original compositions, some of which were commissioned for dance companies. The album opens with a breathing, dirge-like piece, followed by one with more of a gypsy feel. "Wave Hill" is peaceful, with an overlapping, repeating melody -- a seeming precursor to a tune Klucevsek would later play on Dave Douglas' Charms of the Night Sky, "Sea Change." The next piece, "Tesknota," written in memory of John Cage, is beautiful and meditative, with erhu-like string work and introspective slides and drones. The mood and pace lift considerably for the title track, and the closing piece features a string whistle call-and-response across a lake of accordion. Filled with beautiful instrumentals -- except for the unnecessary, goofball song "Donut Ask, Donut Tell" -- Klucevsek's Stolen Memories is a strong offering from a premier music maker.
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