Frederic Rzewski's "Which Side Are You On?" is a compelling exploration of the intersection between traditional American protest music and contemporary classical composition. Released on Cantaloupe Music in 2011, this album features the virtuosic piano performances of Lisa Moore, who brings Rzewski's intricate and thought-provoking pieces to life.
The album is centered around the titular track, "Which Side Are You On?", a song originally written in 1931 by activist Florence Reece. Rzewski's reinterpretation of this classic protest tune is a powerful testament to the enduring relevance of its message. The album also includes "De Profundis," a profound and introspective piece, and "4 North American Ballads," a four-part suite that draws from the rich tradition of American folk music. Each ballad—"Dreadful Memories," "Which Side Are You On?," "Down by the Riverside," and "Winnsboro Cotton Mills Blue"—showcases Rzewski's ability to blend minimalist techniques with the raw emotional power of traditional folk melodies.
With a duration of just over an hour, this album offers a rich and varied listening experience, blending avant-garde experimentation with deeply rooted musical traditions. Rzewski's compositions challenge and engage, making "Which Side Are You On?" a standout work in the realm of contemporary classical music.
Vinylscout