"Paul Bowles: A Picnic Cantata" is a captivating exploration of spoken word, ambient, and gnawa genres, masterfully crafted by the renowned artist Paul Bowles. Released on November 18, 2022, under NYFOS Records, this 28-minute album is a unique blend of narrative and soundscapes that immerses the audience in a series of vivid vignettes.
The album is structured as a cantata, divided into seven distinct movements, each telling a part of a larger story. From the introspective "I feel funny today" to the reflective "How quick we came from where we were," Bowles weaves a tapestry of human experiences and emotions. His spoken word is complemented by ambient textures and gnawa influences, creating an atmospheric journey that is both intimate and expansive.
Bowles' distinctive voice and storytelling prowess shine through, making "A Picnic Cantata" a compelling listen for those who appreciate the art of narrative and the power of atmospheric soundscapes. This album is a testament to Bowles' ability to blend genres and create something truly unique.
2022 NYFOS Records2022 NYFOS Records
Tracks
A Picnic Cantata: I. I feel funny todayPaul Bowles, New York Festival Of Song, Naomi Louisa O'Connell, Amy Owens, Amanda Lynn Bottoms, Chelsea Shephard, Barry Centanni, Steven Blier, Michael Barrett
A Picnic Cantata: II. In our search for orderPaul Bowles, New York Festival Of Song, Naomi Louisa O'Connell, Amy Owens, Steven Blier, Chelsea Shephard, Amanda Lynn Bottoms, Michael Barrett, Barry Centanni
A Picnic Cantata: III. In sun and shade on picnic tablesPaul Bowles, New York Festival Of Song, Steven Blier, Amanda Lynn Bottoms, Chelsea Shephard, Amy Owens, Michael Barrett, Naomi Louisa O'Connell, Barry Centanni
A Picnic Cantata: IV. Happy birthday, Taurus!Paul Bowles, New York Festival Of Song, Amy Owens, Chelsea Shephard, Michael Barrett, Barry Centanni
A Picnic Cantata: V. I knew this other man was marriedPaul Bowles, New York Festival Of Song, Naomi Louisa O'Connell, Michael Barrett, Steven Blier, Barry Centanni
A Picnic Cantata: VI. I never miss the garden sectionPaul Bowles, New York Festival Of Song, Amy Owens, Amanda Lynn Bottoms, Chelsea Shephard, Steven Blier, Michael Barrett, Barry Centanni
A Picnic Cantata: VII. How quick we came from where we werePaul Bowles, New York Festival Of Song, Naomi Louisa O'Connell, Amy Owens, Amanda Lynn Bottoms, Chelsea Shephard, Steven Blier, Michael Barrett, Barry Centanni
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