Immerse yourself in the captivating world of George Crumb's "Complete Crumb Edition, Vol. 10," a mesmerizing journey through the American Songbook. This double album, released on February 15, 2007, under Bridge Records, is a testament to Crumb's innovative spirit and his profound connection to American folk music.
The album is divided into two distinct parts: "American Songbook I (The River of Life)" and "American Songbook III (Unto the Hills)." The first part, "The River of Life," is a vibrant and inventive score that employs over 100 percussion instruments alongside an amplified piano, creating a rich and textured soundscape. It features beloved hymns and spirituals, including "Shall We Gather at the River?", "Amazing Grace!", and "Deep River," reimagined through Crumb's unique lens.
The second part, "Unto the Hills," is a collection of Appalachian folk songs that Crumb has masterfully arranged. This section includes hauntingly beautiful pieces like "Poor Wayfaring Stranger," "All the Pretty Little Horses," and "Black, Black, Black Is the Color." The album concludes with an echoing rendition of "Poor Wayfaring Stranger," leaving a lasting impression.
Performed by Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, and conducted by James Freeman, this album showcases the collaborative brilliance of these talented artists. With a duration of 1 hour and 23 minutes, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Crumb's distinctive style, blending avant-garde and chamber music elements.
"Complete Crumb Edition, Vol. 10" is not just an album; it's an experience that invites you to explore the depths of American folk music through the eyes of a visionary composer. Whether you're a longtime fan of George Crumb or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2007 Bridge Records2007 Bridge Records
Tracks
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 1, Shall We Gather at the River?George Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 2, Will There Be Any Stars in My Crown?George Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 3, Amazing Grace!George Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 4, Give Me That Old Time ReligionGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 5, Time Is a Drifting River [A Psalm for Daybreak and Morning]George Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 6, Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?George Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 7, One More River to CrossGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 8, Nearer, My God to TheeGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook I (The River of Life): No. 9, Deep RiverGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 1, Poor Wayfaring StrangerGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 2, All the Pretty Little HorsesGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 3, Ten Thousand MilesGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 4, Ev'ry Night When the Sun Goes InGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 5, Appalachian Epiphany [A Psalm for Sunset and Dusk]George Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 6, Down in the Valley, Hush, Little Baby [An Appalachian Lullaby]George Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 7, Black, Black, Black Is the ColorGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 8, The RiddleGeorge Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook III (Unto the Hills): No. 9, Poor Wayfaring Stranger [Echo]George Crumb, Ann Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman