At The Edge of The World

Wim Henderickx's "At The Edge of The World" is a captivating journey through the realms of contemporary classical music, showcasing the Belgian composer's unique ability to blend Western and Eastern musical traditions. Released on March 18, 2016, under the Royal Flemish Philharmonic label, this album spans an impressive 1 hour and 57 minutes, featuring 22 tracks that delve into the depths of Henderickx's imaginative and evocative compositions.

The album's centerpiece is Henderickx's first symphony, "At the Edge of the World," a five-movement work inspired by the sculptures of Anglo-Indian artist Anish Kapoor. Each section of the symphony is named after one of Kapoor's artworks, offering a rich, programmatic experience that transcends traditional symphonic structures. Henderickx's music is characterized by its elegant simplicity and thorough engagement with the acoustic space, as noted by the BBC Music Magazine.

In addition to the symphony, the album also includes the "Oboe Concerto 'Empty Mind I'" and "Groove! for Percussion and Orchestra." The former is a five-movement work for oboe, orchestra, and electronics, while the latter is a gripping percussion concerto that has been praised for its poetic delivery. The album also features solo oboe versions of "Empty Mind I," providing a more intimate counterpart to the orchestral versions.

Henderickx's compositions are known for their internal consistency and identifiable style, which sets them apart from eclectic or postmodern approaches. His work has been described as thoroughly filling the acoustic space with an elegant simplicity of gesture, making "At The Edge of The World" a compelling addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The album is conducted by esteemed conductors Edo de Waart and Martyn Brabbins, with performances by the Royal Flemish Philharmonic that bring Henderickx's vision to life with zest and vitality.