Composer's Collection: Michael Colgrass

Michael Colgrass' "Composer's Collection: Michael Colgrass" is a captivating journey through the realms of avant-garde and minimalist music, released on January 1, 2011, under the GIA WindWorks label. This impressive collection spans over two hours and twenty-two minutes, offering a diverse and engaging exploration of Colgrass' unique compositional style.

The album opens with the seven-part suite "Arctic Dreams," each movement painting a vivid sonic landscape inspired by the stark beauty and cultural richness of the Arctic. From the haunting "Throat Singing With Laughter" to the ethereal "The Whispering Voices of the Spirits Who Ride With the Lights in the Sky," Colgrass masterfully blends traditional influences with modern techniques.

The album continues with a variety of pieces that showcase Colgrass' versatility and innovative spirit. "Mysterious Village" and "Urban Requiem" offer contrasting explorations of place and atmosphere, while "The Beethoven Machine" and "Raga Mala" demonstrate his ability to reinterpret classical and non-Western musical traditions.

A significant portion of the album is dedicated to the nine-part suite "Winds of Nagual," inspired by Carlos Castaneda's spiritual teachings. Each movement, from "The Desert. Don Juan Emerges from the Mountains" to "Last Conversation and Farewell," delves into the mystical and philosophical, creating a profound and introspective listening experience.

The album concludes with the soothing "Apache Lullaby" and the enigmatic "Bali," leaving the listener with a sense of having explored a wide range of musical landscapes and cultural influences.

"Composer's Collection: Michael Colgrass" is a testament to the composer's ability to blend diverse musical elements into a cohesive and compelling whole. It's an album that invites repeated listening, revealing new layers and details with each play.