A Dark Flaring marks the Signum Quartett’s impressive return to ECM’s New Series after debuting for the label with striking performances on Erkki-Sven Tüür’s acclaimed chamber music recording Lost Prayers (2020). Here, the quartet has put together a unique programme dedicated to six South African composers, born in the 20th century, whose works for string quartet are united by the way they blend respect for the past with an instinct for the future in a wide-flung idiomatic scope. Whether writing at home or abroad, all six composers reflect their country’s complex and troubled history through music which is strikingly original. Gramophone magazine has described the quartet’s sound as “passionate, often brilliant, but also clear and lean” and their sensitive approach to these dynamically contrasting works is further evidence of the quartet’s accomplished craft. Large idiomatic bridges connect seemingly disparate musical heritages, rooted in everything from the South African Xhosa and Zulu traditions to 20th century minimalism, early 20th century impressionism and reaching all the way back to the Renaissance with John Dowland.
