Guy: Time Passing

Album Description

Barry Guy's captivating album, Time Passing, is a masterful blend of free jazz and avant-garde elements, showcasing his innovative approach to composition. Released on 29 January 2016 via Maya Recordings, this 67-minute album is a thought-provoking exploration of time and its passage.

Inspired by Johann Christoph Bach's wedding cantata, Meine Freundin, du bist schön, and structured around Edward Morgan's poem Epilogue: Seven Decades, Time Passing features a talented ensemble, including Anja Pöche on soprano, Matthew Brook on baritone, Savina Yannatou on vocals, and Barry Guy on double bass, accompanied by the Camerata Zürich string ensemble.

The album's 10 tracks, ranging from the introductory 'Introduction and Glissandi I' to the poignant 'Pt. VII', demonstrate Barry Guy's skill in crafting a cohesive and emotionally resonant work. With its unique blend of improvisation and composition, Time Passing is a testament to Barry Guy's innovative spirit and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz and classical music.

Featuring a range of textures and moods, from the introspective to the explosive, Time Passing is an album that rewards close listening and reflection. Barry Guy's vision, combined with the exceptional talents of the ensemble, results in a rich and complex work that will appeal to fans of experimental and avant-garde music.

29 dec 2016

2015 Maya Recordings

About Barry Guy

Barry Guy is a pioneering figure in the world of contemporary music, renowned for his virtuosity on the double bass and his innovative compositions. Born in 1947, Guy's musical journey spans a diverse range of genres, including free jazz, avant-garde, and classical music. His work is characterized by a unique blend of improvisation and structured composition, making him a standout in both the jazz and classical spheres.

Guy's compositions have been performed by orchestras across the UK and Europe, showcasing his skillful and inventive writing. His discography includes notable works such as "Eye of Silence," "String Quartet no. 3," and "After the Rain," each reflecting his adventurous and demanding musical style. Beyond his solo and ensemble work, Guy has collaborated with artists like baroque violinist Maya Homburger, further expanding his musical horizons.

A graduate of the Guildhall School of Music, Guy has also made significant contributions as an educator, sharing his expertise with future generations of musicians. His music is not just heard but experienced, inviting audiences into a world of sonic exploration and emotional depth. Whether performing solo or leading his twelve-piece New Orchestra, Barry Guy continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in contemporary music.