John Luther Adams, renowned for his evocative and immersive compositions, presents his fifth string quartet, "Lines Made by Walking," released on September 18, 2020, under the Cold Blue Music label. This captivating album is performed by the esteemed JACK Quartet, known for their precision and interpretive depth.
"Lines Made by Walking" is a minimalist and avant-garde exploration, divided into six tracks that weave a tapestry of sound and silence. The album begins with the expansive "Lines Made by Walking: I. Up the Mountain," followed by "Lines Made by Walking: II. Along the Ridges" and "Lines Made by Walking: III. Down the Mountain." The second half of the album features "untouched: I. Rising," "untouched: II. Crossing," and "untouched: III. Falling," each track building upon the previous, creating a sense of continuity and progression.
The composition is notable for its use of tempo canons and harmonic fields, crafting a soundscape that is both intricate and meditative. Adams' work is characterized by its deep connection to nature and the environment, and this album is no exception. The title "Lines Made by Walking" is inspired by the concept of creating paths through repeated movement, much like the way the music unfolds and evolves over time.
With a duration of 54 minutes, this album offers a profound listening experience, inviting the audience to immerse themselves in the subtle shifts and nuances of the string quartet. "Lines Made by Walking" is a testament to John Luther Adams' unique voice in contemporary classical music, showcasing his ability to blend minimalist structures with avant-garde sensibilities.
Vinylscout