Listened to this somewhat unusual disc of string quartets by Christos Hatzis. (Yes,
that Christos Hatzis.) The first quartet, in one continuous movement, blends “modern” (or “post-modern”?) string writing with taped sounds of trains and Inuit throat singing. Parts sound interesting, parts contrived and forced.
The much longer second quartet (around 40 minutes) is a sort of cranked up minimalism, and works very well until the third movement – “nadir” – where the quartet members intermittently shout "Hey!" The work is an “anti-war” piece, with said “nadir” an especially pointed critique on the pointless violence of war. Or something like that. Hey, anti-war sentiment is fine with me – I just wish it could have all been said with the four string instruments.
Two things are certain: the St Lawrence Quartet has the chops to play this or anything, and the HDCD encoded sound is superb.
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Posted on: 05 October 2006 by Bruce Woodhouse
Todd, thanks for posting the review. I wish people would be braver and post their views about new music more often, seems to me we are nervous that somebody might disagree.
As someone who enjoys the 'holy minimalism' of Arvo Part how about a 'modern minimalism' tip for my record buying (assuming that is your 'thing').
Bruce
Posted on: 05 October 2006 by Todd A
quote:
Originally posted by Bruce Woodhouse:
how about a 'modern minimalism' tip for my record buying (assuming that is your 'thing').
Minimialism is one of my least favorite types of modern music - I'm much more a fan of thornier, "harder" music - so I can't be of much help. I'm thinking I should probably gorge on modern (ie, 1950-today) music at some point, though. Perhaps once I'm finished with my LvB sonata binge . . .
Posted on: 06 October 2006 by Wolf
I enjoy some minimalism Bruce. Early John Adams like Shaker Loops, or his Chairman's Dances with Edo de Waart CD is great fun and short pieces. It includes his Short Ride in a Fast Machine (a mini hit on classical station here in LA)
My first trial was with Phillip Glass' the Photographer 20 years ago, but I also heard the Ahknahten Opera and liked the first half, but the second CD was too much of the same thing. Last year the LA Phil did a Minimalist Juke Box series and Adam's conducted Glass 4 pieces from said opera then second half his own Harmonileirhe (sp?) and it was a fantastic combination. the first light and delicate the second a power house early symphony.
I also have a couple Reich pieces, one is Music for 18 musicians which is an early one long piece that ebbs and flows tho drives some people mad. I find it hypnotic tho only play it once in a long while. He has another with 3 pieces to show a range of his work, On Nonesuch label, Proverb, Nagoya Marimbas, City life.
glenn
