This boisterously churning music for three pianos is rich with dense, sometimes shimmering, sometimes rumbling tremolos set off by moments of light, twinkling quietude. (Written...

This boisterously churning music for three pianos is rich with dense, sometimes shimmering, sometimes rumbling tremolos set off by moments of light, twinkling quietude. (Written in 1984, Black Water was premiered the following year at the New Music America festival, its title was taken from an Alberto Manguel-edited collection of short stories.) An 18-minute CD EP/single. “Jim Fox is a singular composer. His music is deep, sparkling, ecstatic, and breathaking.” [John Luther Adams] “A nearly relentless shimmering movement that explores the full range of the keyboard. When the lines do linger a bit in a particular area of tranquility, the mood easily turns reflective, but the bulk of [pianist] Pezzone’s work across the three piano parts keeps ears pulled forward, the notes a school of silvery fish rapidly outpacing any ominous predators floating in the shadows.” [Molly Sheridan, NewMusicBox] “Driven alternately by furious staccato passages, strident chords and assertive arpeggios with the occasional oasis of restraint… it is an energetic whirlwind of a piece that captures and holds the attention.” [Int’l Record Review] “This is exciting music, carrying the listener along in unexpected directions.… The final crashing chord hangs in the air, slowly dissipating, to provide a fitting end to this high-powered work. [Pianist] Bryan Pezzone has done a fine job here.” [Sequenza21] “Black Water is a striking and effective piece which stimulates and deserves repeated hearing.” [MusicWeb Int’l]