Her First Dance

First new recording in a decade from Ukraine-born Misha Alperin, whose last two ECM discs, “Night” and “At Home” were both recorded in 1998. This newest album of solos, duos and trios picks up the productive association with German cellist Anja Lechner begun on “Night”, and also features Alperin’s musical partner of many years, Russian virtuoso horn player Arkady Shilkloper. The landscape keeps changing in a programme of many moods, as Alperin’s compositions reflect his quick-witted mind. Lyricism is here, and dazzling technical skills in abundance.