Bandits of Stature

Album Description

Harold Budd's "Bandits of Stature," released on November 27, 2012, under the Darla label, is a captivating exploration of the string quartet form. This album, commissioned for the Formalist Quartet, presents a collection of 14 compact pieces that blend ambient, minimalism, shoegaze, and drone genres into a cohesive and immersive experience. With a runtime of 44 minutes, each track offers a unique blend of funeral, still string drones and minor-key harmonies, showcasing Budd's distinctive compositional style.

From the evocative "The Dream of the Girl at the Lonely Desert Cafe" to the haunting "Veil of Orpheus," the album takes listeners on a journey through a landscape of sound that is both intimate and expansive. Tracks like "Haru Spring - String Quartet version" and "From the Sea of Changes" highlight Budd's ability to create deeply moving melodies, while "Bandits of Stature" and "Babylon Balboa" add a touch of rhythmic complexity to the collection.

"Bandits of Stature" is not just an album; it's a testament to Harold Budd's enduring influence in the world of modern classical and experimental music. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

November 27, 2012

About Harold Budd

Harold Budd, born in Los Angeles and raised in the Mojave Desert, was an American composer and poet whose music transcended traditional genres. With a career spanning over four decades, Budd's work seamlessly blended ambient, minimalism, shoegaze, and drone elements, creating a unique sonic landscape that captivated audiences worldwide. Beginning his journey in the 1970s with a background in jazz and improvised music, Budd's compositions ranged from intimate solo piano pieces to intricately orchestrated masterpieces. His collaborations, notably with Brian Eno, further cemented his status as a pioneer in the ambient and neo-classical realms. Throughout his prolific career, Budd released over 30 solo recordings and collaborative projects, each offering a distinctive auditory experience that reflected his deep love for jazz and avant-garde influences. Budd's legacy endures as a testament to his innovative spirit and enduring impact on contemporary music.