Jamie Chamberlin, Ariel Pisturino, Babatunde Akinboboye, E. Scott Levin, Hila Plitmann, La Brea Sinfonietta & Benjamin Makino - Mark Abel: Home Is a Harbor & The Palm Trees Are Restless (2016) [Hi-Res]

“a compelling musical theater piece which combines classical and modern musical elements with contemporary dramatic situations…. These two new works… come highly recommended for all enthusiasts of contemporary music…” — Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold, Fanfare Magazine

One of the early reviews describing this stunning new release: Home is a Harbor, Mark’s first opera. And a wondrous bonus in this two-disc set is his latest song cycle, The Palm Trees are Restless. Both works are prime examples of Abel’s hard-hitting signature style, which couches often biting social commentary in a unique musical fusion that combines the depth and sophistication of classical with the in-your-face impact of rock.

Many of the wonderful singers who graced his previous releases are also members of Home Is a Harbor’s marvelous cast. The powerful Palm Trees are given a superlative performance from GRAMMY®-winning soprano Hila Plitmann, known for her work with top contemporary composers, including her husband, Eric Whitacre.

Since a veteran of the Afghanistan war is a key character in the opera’s poignant story, Delos will donate a portion of album sales revenue to Veterans’ organizations, beginning with Cathay Post No. 384 of the American Legion.