Philip Glass, a pioneer of minimalist music, presents "Glass: Songs from Liquid Days," a captivating album that blends the boundaries of classical, neoclassical, and minimalism. Originally released in 1986, this reissue from 2000 offers a fresh perspective on Glass's unique compositional style. The album features seven tracks, with a total duration of 49 minutes, showcasing Glass's signature repetitive structures and hypnotic melodies.
"Songs from Liquid Days" is not just a collection of Philip Glass's compositions but also a collaboration with renowned lyricists Paul Simon, Suzanne Vega, David Byrne, and Laurie Anderson. This fusion of Glass's minimalist music with the poetic lyrics of these acclaimed artists creates a unique and engaging listening experience.
The album opens with "Vessels," a piece originally composed for the film "Koyaanisqatsi," and continues with tracks like "Changing Opinion," "Lightning," and "In Liquid Days," each offering a distinct exploration of Glass's minimalist aesthetic. The title track, "In Liquid Days," is divided into two parts, with "Open the Kingdom" serving as the second part, providing a sense of continuity and progression throughout the album.
Performed by the National Sinfonia and the Crouch End Festival Chorus, the album is a testament to Glass's ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. "Songs from Liquid Days" is a testament to Philip Glass's enduring influence on contemporary classical music, offering a captivating journey through the world of minimalism.