Musiques Nouvelles 2012

Immerse yourself in the avant-garde world of Musiques Nouvelles with their 2012 album, a sprawling 6-hour and 38-minute journey through the realms of tango, neoclassical, and experimental music. This ensemble, under the direction of Jean-Paul Dessy, presents a diverse collection of 28 tracks, each a testament to the innovative spirit of contemporary classical music.

The album kicks off with Pierre Bartholomée's "Le Rêve de Diotime," a 22-minute exploration that sets the tone for the eclectic journey ahead. From the intimate "Chambres d'à côté" by Philippe Boesmans to the rhythmic intensity of Denis Bosse's "Obstinatissimo," each piece is a unique sonic landscape. The ensemble's collaboration with soprano Elise Gäbele adds a haunting vocal element to several tracks, including the ethereal "L'Âme et la Danse."

Musiques Nouvelles 2012 also features standout works like Henri Pousseur's "La seconde apothéose de Rameau," a 27-minute piece that pays homage to the Baroque composer Jean-Philippe Rameau. The album's diversity is further showcased in tracks like "Micro-concerto" and "Piéce pour piano, quatuor à cordes et percussions," which blend traditional instruments with modern techniques.

The ensemble's commitment to innovation is evident in their use of unconventional instruments and electronic elements, as heard in "Étude No. 4: Sur le modulateur en anneau, filtre, freeze et leslie." The album concludes with "Stéle à la mémoire de Pierre Froidebise," a poignant tribute to the Belgian composer.

Recorded in 2013 and released under the Cypres label, Musiques Nouvelles 2012 is a testament to the ensemble's versatility and artistic prowess. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of contemporary classical music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.