"Cosmic Wings" is a captivating orchestral album composed by Johan de Meij, released on June 15, 2013, under the World Wind Music label. This album is a testament to de Meij's mastery of orchestral composition, featuring a blend of innovative and classical elements that span over an hour and sixteen minutes.
The album showcases two major works: the "UFO Concerto for Euphonium & Wind Orchestra" and "Symphony No. 3 Planet Earth." The "UFO Concerto" is a thrilling five-movement piece that highlights the euphonium's versatility and the wind orchestra's dynamic range, recorded live to capture the raw energy and precision of the performance. Each movement offers a unique atmosphere, from the contemplative "Andante" to the lively "Vivace."
"Symphony No. 3 Planet Earth" is a three-movement exploration of our world, with each section evoking different aspects of our planet. "Lonely Planet" sets a reflective tone, while "Planet Earth" and "Mother Planet" celebrate the beauty and complexity of our home.
Johan de Meij is renowned for his distinctive compositional style, which often incorporates elements of popular music and film scores into the classical orchestral tradition. His previous works, such as "Aquarium" and "Casanova," have earned him international acclaim, and "Cosmic Wings" continues to push the boundaries of orchestral music. This album is a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection, offering a rich and engaging listening experience.