Reich : WTC 9/11, Mallet Quartet, Dance Patterns

Steve Reich's 2011 album "Reich: WTC 9/11, Mallet Quartet, Dance Patterns" is a compelling collection of three distinct works that showcase the composer's signature minimalist style and innovative approach to classical music. The album opens with "WTC 9/11," a poignant and powerful piece commissioned as a memorial to the victims of the September 11 attacks. Scored for three string quartets and pre-recorded voices, including NORAD air traffic recordings, the piece is performed by the renowned Kronos Quartet, delivering a haunting and deeply moving tribute.

Following "WTC 9/11," the album presents the "Mallet Quartet," a vibrant and energetic work performed by the Sō Percussion ensemble. This three-movement piece highlights Reich's mastery of rhythm and texture, with its intricate patterns and dynamic interplay between the four percussionists.

The album concludes with "Dance Patterns," a lively and engaging composition featuring members of Steve Reich and Musicians. This piece showcases Reich's ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.

Recorded and released by Nonesuch, this album is a testament to Steve Reich's enduring influence and creativity. With a total runtime of just over 36 minutes, it offers a concise yet impactful listening experience that spans the genres of minimalism, avant-garde, and classical music. Whether you're a long-time fan of Reich's work or new to his compositions, this album provides a captivating exploration of his unique musical vision.

Steve Reich, born in New York in 1936, is a pioneering American composer renowned for his groundbreaking work in minimalist music. Often hailed as "America's greatest living composer" and "the most original musical thinker of our time," Reich's compositions are characterised by their use of repetitive patterns, slow harmonic changes, and intricate canons. His innovative approach, as articulated in his essay "Music as a Gradual Process," focuses on making musical processes perceptible, allowing the listener to experience the evolution of sound over time. Reich's early works, such as those that employ phase shifting, create mesmerising new musical patterns through the subtle manipulation of tempo and timing. Throughout his career, Reich has explored a diverse range of influences, from Western classical music to non-Western traditions, resulting in a rich and varied body of work that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.