"Light Stories" is a deeply personal and introspective journey composed and performed by the renowned cellist Matthew Barley. Released on September 27, 2024, via Signum Records, this minimalist album spans 45 minutes and is a collection of tales from Matthew Barley's life, told through evocative music and projected imagery. The album features eight original compositions and two arrangements, each piece narrating his search for meaning in music-making and the transformative power of music in healing and finding light from darkness.
Recorded in July 2024 at Misha's Bedroom Studio in the United Kingdom, "Light Stories" is a testament to Matthew Barley's artistic vision and technical prowess. The album opens with the haunting "Spell" and concludes with the reflective "The Unwaiting Sky," taking the audience through a profound journey from chaos to order. Highlights include the intricate "Cathedrals and Caves," the poignant "Unravelling," and the powerful "Hell I," arranged by Matthew Barley himself.
The album also features a stunning arrangement of the hymn "Ich ruf zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ" for cello, showcasing Matthew Barley's versatility and depth as a composer and performer. "Light Stories" is not just an album; it is a narrative of resilience, healing, and the enduring power of music to transform and inspire. The album is accompanied by video design by YeastCulture and on-screen dance by Mavin Khoo, adding layers of visual and performative artistry to the musical experience.
Vinylscout