Berio: A-Ronne; Cries of London

Dive into the avant-garde world of Luciano Berio with this captivating 1976 release, a unique blend of vocal artistry and experimental composition. This album showcases two distinct works: "A-Ronne," a six-part vocal piece that pushes the boundaries of language and sound, and "Cries of London," a mesmerizing composition for eight voices that originally premiered in 1974 and was expanded for this recording.

"Cries of London" is a fascinating exploration of London's street vendors, capturing the essence of the city's vibrant atmosphere through a series of vocal improvisations and structured passages. The piece is performed by the renowned vocal ensemble Swingle II, known for their precise delivery and innovative approach to vocal music.

"A-Ronne," on the other hand, is a groundbreaking work that challenges conventional notions of text and meaning. Berio deconstructs and reconstructs the text of a poem by Edoardo Sanguineti, creating a complex web of phonetic sounds and fragmented words that defy easy interpretation. The result is a captivating sonic landscape that invites repeated listening and exploration.

Recorded in Decca Studio 3, West Hampstead, London, this album features stunning performances by Swingle II, accompanied by a 4-page, 12" x 12" booklet that provides valuable insights into Berio's creative process. With a total duration of 44 minutes, this album is a testament to Berio's enduring influence on the world of avant-garde music.

Luciano Berio, a seminal figure in 20th-century music, was an Italian composer renowned for his innovative and experimental approach to composition. Born in 1925, Berio's work spanned a wide range of techniques, from serialism and electronic music to indeterminacy and the incorporation of spoken texts. His early influences included Igor Stravinsky, and his later works, such as the iconic 'Sinfonia,' are celebrated for their intellectual depth and visceral power. Berio was not just a composer but also a conductor and educator, founding the Juilliard Ensemble in New York City and delivering the prestigious Charles Eliot Norton Lectures at Harvard. His prolific career, which included a vast array of genres and styles, solidified his status as a leader of the international avant-garde, standing alongside figures like Pierre Boulez and György Ligeti. Berio's legacy endures through his groundbreaking compositions and his enduring influence on contemporary music.