Dive into the sonic landscape of Terry Riley's "Riley: The Palmian Chord Ryddle & At the Royal Majestic," a captivating exploration of minimalism and avant-garde composition. Released in 2017, this album is a testament to Riley's enduring influence and innovation in the world of experimental music. At 82 years old, Riley's late-career works showcase his mastery and continued evolution as a composer.
"The Palmian Chord Ryddle" is a musical autobiography of sorts, featuring the electric violin prowess of Tracy Silverman, who acts as a "one-man string quartet," setting the pace for this eclectic and playful eight-movement work. The album's first half is a journey through Riley's unique compositional style, blending ambient textures with drone and experimental elements. Each movement, from "Starting from Here" to "The Afterglow," offers a distinct sonic experience, showcasing Riley's ability to create intricate and engaging soundscapes.
The second half of the album, "At the Royal Majestic," continues this exploration with three captivating pieces: "Negro Hall," "Lizard Tower Gang," and "Circling Kailash." These compositions further demonstrate Riley's ability to push the boundaries of minimalism and avant-garde music, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
With a duration of just over an hour and nine minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Terry Riley's late-career works. Whether you're a longtime fan of minimalist music or a newcomer to the genre, "Riley: The Palmian Chord Ryddle & At the Royal Majestic" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is released by Naxos and features a variety of genres, including minimalism, avant-garde, experimental, drone, and ambient.
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