Peter Garland: Plain Songs

Peter Garland's "Plain Songs" is a captivating exploration of minimalism and avant-garde music, deeply rooted in the poetic essence of Robert Creeley's "Love Comes Quietly." Released on June 6, 2025, under the Cold Blue Music label, this album is a testament to Garland's unique compositional style, blending the raw beauty of Native American music with the intricate layers of minimalism and avant-garde.

Comprising seven movements, "Plain Songs" is performed by Carson Cooman on the C. B. Fisk Opus 139 organ at the Memorial Church of Harvard University, recorded in October 2024. The album spans 42 minutes, each track a delicate interplay of simplicity and complexity, reflecting the honesty and depth of Creeley's poetry. From the haunting melodies of "Plain Songs (After Creeley's Love Comes Quietly): No. 1" to the contemplative "Stone, Like Stillness," Garland weaves a sonic tapestry that is both meditative and evocative.

This album is not just a collection of tracks but a cohesive journey through sound and silence, each note carefully crafted to resonate with the listener. Peter Garland's mastery of minimalism and avant-garde elements shines through, making "Plain Songs" a profound and immersive experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Garland's work or new to his compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.