Guitarist Daniel Lippel pushes the limits of modern classical music on Adjacence, a sweeping collection of chamber works for guitar that brings together some of the most adventurous voices in contemporary composition. Featuring pieces by Tyshawn Sorey, Nico Muhly, Tania León, Charles Wuorinen, and more, the album spans an extraordinary range of styles and approaches, from modernist complexity to minimalist restraint, with touches of improvisation and microtonal experimentation.

Lippel, a prominent figure in the New York contemporary music scene and a core member of ensembles like the International Contemporary Ensemble and counter)induction, has built a career on versatility and innovation. With Adjacence, he strengthens his reputation as a fearless interpreter and collaborator, assembling a program that challenges the conventions of classical guitar while celebrating its limitless potential. The works on Adjacence were created by an impressive lineup of composers, many of whom wrote their pieces specifically for Lippel or the ensembles featured on the album. The result is a project that showcases not only Lippel’s technical brilliance but also his ability to bring out the nuanced voices of his collaborators. Each composition feels like its own distinct world, from the timbral and textural experiments of Tania León to the intricate, microtonal landscapes of Ken Ueno.

Among the highlights is Tyshawn Sorey’s contribution, a work that blends structured improvisation with precisely notated passages, creating a dynamic interplay between freedom and form. Similarly, Nico Muhly’s minimalist-inflected piece brims with melodic clarity and rhythmic vitality, offering a stark contrast to Charles Wuorinen’s angular, modernist textures. The album’s title, Adjacence, feels particularly apt as the pieces unfold, revealing unexpected connections between seemingly disparate styles. Whether exploring microtonality or embracing more traditional harmonies, Lippel and his cohorts demonstrate how contemporary music can break down barriers.

Recorded with ensembles like the International Contemporary Ensemble and Flexible Music, as well as a host of skilled freelancers, Adjacence highlights the vibrant, collaborative spirit of the New York contemporary music scene. The performances are impeccably polished, with Lippel’s guitar serving as both a centerpiece and a conduit for the album’s many voices. In an era where genre lines blur and classical music seeks new ways to connect with audiences, Adjacence feels like a roadmap for what’s possible. It’s a record that demands focused listening, but the rewards are immense.