I went to a concert in September of contemporary music ensemble, Syzygy at the Melbourne Recital Centre expecting to hear crazy modern repertoire that would stretch and interest me. This I got, but what I wasn’t expecting was to be swept away by lyrical melodies, stunning poetry and orchestral colours that inspired. This particular work was Katy Abbott’s No Ordinary Traveller song cycle for mezzo-soprano and mixed trio. Featured on Move Records on the Sunburnt Aftertones chamber music of Katy Abbott, I immediately sought it out to listen again.

This song cycle is based upon the diaries and writings of the early women who came to Australia and the struggles they had. Compiled by Jacki Holland coupled with Abbott’s particular sound world brings the sense of desolation straight to your heart. The other works feature interesting instrumental groupings and the style is more what I originally expected. However if you are a fan of lied this song cycle is a striking example of how the genre of song is continually growing and expanding while staying simply beautiful.