Archipelago features vibrant and colourful works for percussion ensemble, including Short Cuts, originally written for the Apollo Saxophone Quartet and then rearranged by the composer, and Mind the Gap for solo marimba, a work inspired by travelling around London. Genetically Modified Fados and Zoom in – Zoom out were both commissioned by Drumming Grupo de Percussão. Genetically Modified Fados features pre-recorded sounds as well as exploring the elemental Fado style of Portugal, while Zoom in – Zoom out subtly evokes the rhythms and melodies of Brazilian popular music. Ends Meet is a cyclical work for marimba and string quartet, and the eponymous recent work Archipelago, dedicated to the album’s skilful conductor, Miquel Bernat, combines vibraphone with partially-tuned wah-wah tubes, creating fascinating microtonal effects.
Steel Factory is a thrilling work for steel drum ensemble, and is dedicated to Drumming Grupo de Percussão, a group established 20 years ago in 1999, since when it has become one of the