Uneasy

“Uneasy” was composed in New York in the midst of the first Donald Trump era in the leadup to the Covid pandemic. In reference to the anxious and politically charged atmosphere, Ken sets teams of instruments against each other to create counterpoint, accompanied by an urgent rhythmic drive. In the work’s three fast-slow-fast movements, the piece never settles or resolves.  The title is also a reference to the difficulty of the work, which handily showcases the musicians of Anzû Quartet. The first movement was commissioned by New York's “Unheard-Of//Ensemble;” thereafter, two additional movements were composed to form the entire 18-minute work, which Anzû Quartet recorded in January 2020.

Released on Anzû Quartet: Adjust (2025, Cantaloupe Music)