Bryars: Nothing Like the Sun

"Nothing Like the Sun" is a captivating exploration of Shakespeare's sonnets through the lens of minimalist and avant-garde composer Gavin Bryars. Recorded live in Adelaide in 2015, this album features Bryars' evocative settings of select sonnets, performed by the renowned singers John Potter and Peyee Chen, along with a guest artist. The album's title is a nod to a line from Shakespeare's Sonnet 130, and it lives up to the promise of uniqueness and depth.

The album is structured into a series of sonnet pairs, each followed by a postlude, creating a rhythmic and thematic flow that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Bryars' compositions are known for their subtle beauty and intricate layering, and "Nothing Like the Sun" is no exception. The minimalist approach allows the text to shine, while the avant-garde elements add a layer of complexity and intrigue.

With a duration of just over 53 minutes, "Nothing Like the Sun" is a rich and immersive experience. The album was released on July 15, 2016, under the GB Records label, and it stands as a testament to Bryars' unique compositional voice and his deep engagement with literary texts. Whether you're a fan of classical music, poetry, or simply appreciate innovative art, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.