The album “Contemporary Landscapes” has been featured on MusicWeb International, where the review praises its narrative depth and stylistic diversity, showcasing works by four contemporary American composers. Among them, Wang Jie, a distinguished composer represented by Only Stage, contributes the final piece of the recording: “The Winter that United Us”.

Composed in 2022, the work reflects the emotional intensity of a challenging historical moment, possibly alluding to the COVID-19 pandemic. The piece unfolds as a single movement, where lyricism and tension intertwine, making full use of the orchestra’s expressive range. The review highlights its shifting moods, describing it as an emotional rollercoaster, with fanfare-like passages, ominous undercurrents, and moments of furious energy, before transitioning into sweeping, evocative melodies. The orchestral writing is noted for its fluid energy, reminiscent of Stravinsky, Barber, and even Sibelius.

The album, conducted by JoAnn Falletta, is praised for its exceptional recording quality and masterful execution, offering listeners a captivating journey through modern orchestral storytelling. The full review is available on MusicWeb International.