Dive into the avant-garde world of Peter Eötvös with his compelling album "Eötvös: Psalm 151 / Psy / Triangel." Released in 2000, this collection showcases the innovative spirit of one of contemporary classical music's most visionary composers and conductors. The album is a testament to Eötvös's unique approach to composition, blending ritualistic elements with cutting-edge musical techniques.
The album opens with "Psalm 151," a powerful tribute to the legendary Frank Zappa, composed in 1993. This percussion solo, performed by Zoltán Rácz, is a ritualistic memorial that combines strophes on the bass drum with processions on metal instruments, creating a haunting and evocative atmosphere. Following this is "Psy," a trio for marimba, flute, and cello, performed by an ensemble of exceptional musicians including Gergely Ittzés and Miklós Perényi. This piece, composed in 1996, offers a more intimate and reflective experience, highlighting the delicate interplay between the instruments.
The centerpiece of the album is "Triangel," a sprawling composition for a creative percussionist and 27 musicians. Composed in 1993, "Triangel" is a series of ten movements that explore the vast sonic possibilities of the triangle and other percussion instruments. Each movement, from the opening "Eingang mit Triangel" to the concluding "Ausgang mit Triangel," offers a unique sonic landscape, showcasing Eötvös's mastery of texture and rhythm. The album, recorded by the UMZE Chamber Ensemble under Eötvös's own baton, is a captivating journey through the composer's distinctive musical universe, lasting approximately one hour and five minutes. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of avant-garde music or a curious explorer of new sounds, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.