This outstanding new release, Home is a Harbor, is Mark Abel’s first opera. In addition to the opera in three acts, this two-disc set includes the composer’s newest song cycle, The Palm Trees are Restless. The Palm Trees are Restless is performed beautifully by Grammy-winning soprano Hila Pittman, who is known for her work with contemporary composers such as her husband, Eric Whitacre. A key character in the opera is a veteran of the Afghanistan war. Because of this, Delos will donate a portion of this album’s sales revenue to various Veterans’ organizations, starting with American Legion Cathay Post No. 384. “Abel is as good a poet as he is a musician. …anyone who is interested in modern vocal music will want to own this disc.” (Maria Nockin, Fanfare Magazine)
