Colossus

Bottesini is by tradition the bassist who towers over the craft.  I've heard Kyle Ramsay -Daniel play his music before but a full concert of just Bottesini is worthy of Kyle's title, Paradigm Shift, even if it sounds rather C20th sci-fi rather than virtuosic C19th contrabass.  The paradigm shift was the thought that the bass had a solo, lead, melodic role and Bottesini pretty much created that role himself.  It's a mighty task to take on but Kyle does it justice: all high harmonics, occasional drops to low notes, flighty sequences and loads of thumb position, even lower on the neck.  I was also fascinated by the lines played up and down the neck on the G-string.  Apparently it's a thing, common although not ubiquitous.  So we had variations on "Nel cor piu non mi sento", Elegy no.1 Dmaj, Concerto no.2 Bmin and Fantasia of "La sonnambula".  Some huge demands and capable responses.  Not something I would even think of approaching but I freely admire someone who does.  Kyle played with piano accompaniment from Edward Neeman, called in just days before due to last minute sickness.  You wouldn't know the change without being told.  So a concert of ridiculous demands and hugely worthy responses.  I remain in awe of Bottesini, of course, but also of Kyle for taking this on.  I guess I quote Giovanni B himself by saying "Bravo ... bravo ... bravissimo".

Kyle Ramsay-Daniel (bass) performed Bottesini with accompaniment by Edward Neeman (piano) at Wesley.