Immerse yourself in the captivating world of George Crumb's "Complete Crumb Edition, Vol. 13," a mesmerizing collection of avant-garde and chamber music that showcases the composer's unique artistic vision. Released in 2008 under the Bridge Records label, this album is a testament to Crumb's enduring influence in the realm of contemporary classical music.
The album is a journey through time, featuring two distinct songbooks: "American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time)" and "American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny)." Each piece is a masterful blend of traditional American folk melodies and innovative musical techniques, creating a sound that is both familiar and groundbreaking.
"American Songbook II" opens with "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," a hauntingly beautiful rendition of the classic spiritual. The songbook continues with other well-known tunes such as "Joshua Fit de Battle ob Jericho," "Steal Away," and "Go Down, Moses," each reimagined through Crumb's distinctive lens. The final track, "Shenandoah," is a poignant and reflective piece that brings the songbook to a close.
"American Songbook IV" begins with "Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory," a powerful and stirring arrangement of the Battle Hymn of the Republic. The songbook also includes "When Johnny Comes Marching Home," "Lonesome Road," and "All My Trials [Death's Lullaby]," each offering a unique perspective on the American musical landscape. The final track, "The Enchanted Valley," is a serene and enchanting piece that leaves a lasting impression.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen. The performances by Barbara Ann Martin, James Freeman, and Orchestra 2001 are nothing short of exceptional, bringing Crumb's compositions to life with skill and passion. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Complete Crumb Edition, Vol. 13" is an album that will expand your musical horizons and leave you eager for more.
2008 Bridge Records2008 Bridge Records
Tracks
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 1, Swing Low, Sweet ChariotGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 2, Joshua Fit de Battle ob JerichoGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 3, Steal AwayGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 4, Oh, a-Rock-a My SoulGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 5, The Pregnant Earth [A Psalm for Noontide]George Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 6, Sit Down, SisterGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 7, Nobody Knows de Trouble I SeeGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 8, Go Down, MosesGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook II (A Journey Beyond Time): No. 9, Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless ChildGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 1, Mine Eyes Have Seen the GloryGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 2, When Johnny Comes Marching HomeGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 3, Lonesome RoadGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 4, Twelve Gates to the CityGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 5, De profundis [A Psalm for the Night-Wanderer]George Crumb, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 6, All My Trials [Death's Lullaby]George Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 7, Go Tell It on the Mountain!George Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 8, The Enchanted ValleyGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
American Songbook IV (The Winds of Destiny): No. 9, ShenandoahGeorge Crumb, Barbara Ann Martin, Orchestra 2001, James Freeman
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