"East" is a captivating musical journey released by William George on December 5, 2017, under the Redshift Records label. This 58-minute album is a rich tapestry of compositions that draw inspiration from Eastern themes and classical poetry, offering a serene and introspective listening experience.
The album begins with the four-part suite "Chinese Gardens," each movement named after famous Chinese gardens, transporting listeners to tranquil landscapes with its evocative melodies. William George further explores Eastern influences with "Two Chinese Songs" and "Three Moon Songs of Li-Po," setting ancient Chinese poetry to music with delicate and expressive arrangements.
"East" also features settings of works by the Japanese poet Basho, titled "The Basho Fragments," and a rendition of Dylan Thomas' poignant poem "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night." The album concludes with two settings of poems by Omar Khayyām and the eight-part suite "Unseen Rain," which explores themes of reflection and remembrance.
William George's unique blend of Eastern and Western musical elements creates a soothing and contemplative atmosphere throughout "East." This album is a testament to his skill as a composer and his ability to weave together diverse musical influences into a cohesive and engaging whole. "East" is a beautiful addition to any music collection, offering a peaceful and reflective listening experience that can be enjoyed time and time again.
2017 Redshift Records2017 Redshift Records
Tracks
Chinese Gardens: I. The Tarrying GardenWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Alec Roth
Chinese Gardens: II. The Master-of-Nets GardenWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Alec Roth
Chinese Gardens: III. The Gentle Waves PavillionWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Alec Roth
Chinese Gardens: IV. The Humble Administrator’s GardenWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Alec Roth
Two Chinese Songs: I. The HermitWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Marga Richter
Two Chinese Songs: II. Fishing PictureWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Marga Richter
Three Moon Songs of Li-Po: I. The Drinker, the Moon & His ShadowWilliam George, Michael Strutt
Three Moon Songs of Li-Po: II. The Moon at Jade PassWilliam George, Michael Strutt
Three Moon Songs of Li-Po: III. Quiet Night ThoughtsWilliam George, Michael Strutt
The Basho Fragments: I. With a Bit of MadnessWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Keith R. Cole
The Basho Fragments: II. In the Temple of SumaWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Keith R. Cole
The Basho Fragments: III. Fresh SpringWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Keith R. Cole
Do Not Go Gentle into That Good NightWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Lou Warde
Two Omar Khayyām Songs: I. False MorningWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Iman Habibi
Two Omar Khayyām Songs: II. The River LipWilliam George, Michael Strutt, Iman Habibi
Unseen Rain: I. TuningWilliam George, John Oliver
Unseen Rain: II. The AltarWilliam George, John Oliver
Unseen Rain: III. FriendsWilliam George, John Oliver
Unseen Rain: IV. The MirrorWilliam George, John Oliver
Unseen Rain: V. FireWilliam George, John Oliver
Unseen Rain: VI. CandleWilliam George, John Oliver
Unseen Rain: VII. The DoorWilliam George, John Oliver
Unseen Rain: VIII. StoriesWilliam George, John Oliver
Vinylscout