Other People’s Love Songs with NOW Ensemble
Other People’s Love Songs is based on an earnest, sentimental concept: All thirteen songs were commissioned by individuals as gifts to their significant others. Corey Dargel – composer, lyricist, and singer – interviewed the couples and learned all about their histories, personalities, quirks, private jokes, and emotional lives. He spun this tender data into music and lyrics that encompass a wide range of feelings. The real-life subjects of these songs range from celebrities to the “couple next door.” Newlyweds, long marrieds, gay couples, siblings, daughters, mothers, and others stepped forward to commission these songs. At times, the results are almost voyeuristic in their intimacy.
On the CD, Dargel sings to the accompaniment of self-produced electronic tracks, but for concert performances, he has arranged these songs for amplified acoustic ensemble. The adventurous NYC-based NOW Ensemble performs the “lively, ingenious accompaniments” (-17dots.com). NOW’s lineup of electric guitar, flute, clarinet, upright bass, and piano is augmented by accordionist/singer Kamala Sankaram.
NOW Ensemble is a dynamic young group of performers and composers dedicated to making new chamber music for the 21st century. With its unusual instrumentation of flute, clarinet, electric guitar, double bass, and piano, NOW Ensemble brings a fresh sound and a new perspective to the classical tradition, infused with a blend of musical influences that reflects the diverse backgrounds and listening experiences of its members. NOW plays in concert halls and art museums, rock clubs and jazz venues, for large audiences and for intimate gatherings, acoustic and plugged in. Above all, the ensemble strives for performances that are as lively and engaging as they are rigorous and technically sophisticated. NOW Ensemble’s critically acclaimed debut album, NOW, was released on New Amsterdam Records in 2008.
If you are a presenter interested in booking the concert performance of Other People’s Love Songs, email Corey for further information.
