Reich: Sextet & Double Sextet

Dive into the intricate world of minimalism and avant-garde classical music with Steve Reich's "Reich: Sextet & Double Sextet," released in 2018 on Mode Records. This captivating album presents two of Reich's most celebrated works, performed with a distinctive edge that sets this rendition apart from others. The sextet and double sextet compositions are brought to life with a slightly heavier, bass-rich sound, adding depth and intensity to the music.

The album opens with the "Sextet," a piece that grooves with a single-meter rhythm, creating a mesmerizing, repetitive pattern that builds and evolves over time. Following this, the "Double Sextet" introduces a more complex rhythmic world, showcasing Reich's mastery of layering and phasing techniques. The contrast between the two pieces offers a rich listening experience, highlighting the composer's innovative approach to structure and sound.

With a total runtime of 49 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Steve Reich's unique style for newcomers and a delightful addition to the collections of existing fans. The brilliant performances and high-quality production make this release a standout in the world of contemporary classical music. Whether you're a seasoned listener or new to Reich's work, "Reich: Sextet & Double Sextet" promises an engaging and thought-provoking journey through the realms of minimalism and avant-garde composition.

Steve Reich, born in New York in 1936, is a pioneering American composer renowned for his groundbreaking work in minimalist music. Often hailed as "America's greatest living composer" and "the most original musical thinker of our time," Reich's compositions are characterised by their use of repetitive patterns, slow harmonic changes, and intricate canons. His innovative approach, as articulated in his essay "Music as a Gradual Process," focuses on making musical processes perceptible, allowing the listener to experience the evolution of sound over time. Reich's early works, such as those that employ phase shifting, create mesmerising new musical patterns through the subtle manipulation of tempo and timing. Throughout his career, Reich has explored a diverse range of influences, from Western classical music to non-Western traditions, resulting in a rich and varied body of work that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.