Olivier Greif: Quatuor à cordes No. 4 Ulysses

Olivier Greif's "Quatuor à cordes No. 4 Ulysses" is a captivating exploration of contemporary classical music, released in 2002 under the Disques Triton label. This avant-garde album, spanning 59 minutes, is performed by the esteemed Ensemble Syntonia, offering a rich and intricate listening experience.

The album is a testament to Greif's innovative compositional style, blending traditional string quartet elements with modern, experimental techniques. Each track, from the haunting "The jew's daughter" to the lively "Hoopsa, boyaboy, hoopsa," showcases Greif's versatility and depth as a composer. The inclusion of "Amaryllis," a rendition of Giulio Caccini's "Amarilli" arranged by Peter Philips, adds a touch of historical context and variety to the collection.

"Ulysses" is not just a collection of pieces but a cohesive journey through Greif's musical vision. The album's standout track, "(Ghost) Langser Midang - 'Le délégué de la population paré du costume de cour'," exemplifies the album's avant-garde nature, while "Bourbonnais!" and "Night hunt" offer dynamic and engaging performances. The album concludes with "Présentation de l'œuvre par le compositeur (archives - extraits)," providing a unique insight into Greif's creative process.

For fans of contemporary classical music and string quartets, "Quatuor à cordes No. 4 Ulysses" is a compelling addition to any collection. Olivier Greif's masterful composition and the Ensemble Syntonia's impeccable performance make this album a standout in the genre.