By Joshua Kosman
San Francisco Chronicle

It would be hard to think of a more congenial pairing of composer and performer than Frederic Rzewski and the dynamic young new-music sextet Eighth Blackbird.

By Robert Everett-Green

Disciplining a nonconformist | Music of Frederic Rzewski ****

When I think of my few personal encounters with Frederic Rzewski, the word "jerk" comes to mind, though I wouldn't describe him that way, especially given the state of libel law in this country. Even if he were a jerk, that might be part of what makes him such an interesting composer, since nobody makes extraordinary art without the strength to override the ordinary rules of conduct that jerks are continually challenging in their social relations.

By Clarke Bustard
Richmond Times-Dispatch

Richmond audiences have been introduced to a number of living composers by eighth blackbird in the group's year-old residency at the University of Richmond. Frederic Rzewski is one of the most fascinating creative personalities the sextet has brought to our attention.

By Wilma Salisbury
Classical Music Critic
The Plain Dealer (Cleveland, OH)

Frederic Rzewski gives eighth blackbird the freedom to fly in “Pocket Symphony,” the showpiece he wrote five years ago for the virtuoso chamber ensemble. Founded at Oberlin College Conservatory in 1996, the six-member group rises to the challenge and creates a series of cadenzas that fit the American composer’s edgy style.

By Roger Thomas

Performance:****    Sound: ****

Ironically, one of the 21st century’s most positive musical developments is the way in which 20th-century music is finally being performed with the competence that comes when the interpreters have grown up with the music. This is surely the case with this vibrant ensemble, which treats Rzewski’s music with an exact and necessary balance of passion and puckishness.

By Aaron Green, Classical Music Guide

This album is truly a work of art. At first, I wasn’t thrilled about the music. Honestly, this type of music isn’t my cup of tea… or so I thought. Coming back to the album the next day having read the album notes, I was able to appreciate what my ears were hearing. The music suddenly made sense to me. And I love it.