Philip Glass's captivating album, Perpetulum: Philip Glass, Gavin Bryars, Third Coast Percussion, is a masterful blend of minimalism, classical, and neoclassical genres. Released on 29 March 2019, via Orange Mountain Music, this 1 hour and 33-minute musical journey showcases Glass's distinctive style, alongside the works of Gavin Bryars.
The album features a diverse range of tracks, including the 'Aliens with Extraordinary Abilities' series, which explores a variety of moods and textures. From the intense 'Torched and Wrecked' to the more subdued 'Don't Eat Your Young', each piece demonstrates Glass's ability to craft intricate, mesmerising soundscapes. The 'Perpetulum' series, comprising four parts and a cadenza, is a highlight of the album, with its pulsing rhythms and soaring melodies.
With contributions from Third Coast Percussion, the album's percussive elements add depth and complexity to the overall sound. The inclusion of 'BEND', 'Ordering Instincts', and 'The Other Side of the River' further showcases the album's eclecticism, making for a rich and engaging listening experience. Throughout the album, Philip Glass's unique voice shines through, cementing his reputation as a leading figure in contemporary classical music.