Heinz Holliger / J.S. Bach

This is the first of six albums from cellist Thomas Demenga, each paring one of Johann Sebastian Bach’s cello suites with works by modern composers—in this case, Heinz Holliger. The juxtaposition is duly refreshing. Demenga’s take on Bach’s Suite No. 4 is lilting and heartfelt, capping off a chain of fascinations beginning with Holliger’s Duo für Violine und Violoncello (played with sister Catrin), while Trema for cello alone evokes a psychosomatic disturbance. Between them is the Studie über Mehrklänge for oboe. Played by the composer, it turns an etude of overblowing and multiphonics into an arresting musical experience.