Reich : WTC 9/11, Mallet Quartet, Dance Patterns

Steve Reich, a Pulitzer Prize-winning composer, presents a profound and reflective album, "Reich : WTC 9/11, Mallet Quartet, Dance Patterns," released on Nonesuch. This collection marks the 10th anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, with the centerpiece being the composition "WTC 9/11." Commissioned for and performed by the renowned Kronos Quartet, this piece is a poignant tribute, scored for three string quartets and pre-recorded voices, capturing the gravity and somberness of the occasion.

The album also features Reich's "Mallet Quartet," performed by Sō Percussion, showcasing the composer's signature minimalist style with its intricate, rhythmic patterns and delicate textures. The quartet is divided into three movements, each offering a unique exploration of sound and tempo.

Completing the album is "Dance Patterns," a brief yet captivating percussive film score that adds a dynamic and lively contrast to the more contemplative pieces. This track, along with the "Mallet Quartet," provides a reminder of the beauty and continuity of life amidst the weightier themes explored in "WTC 9/11."

With a total runtime of 36 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful collection that highlights Steve Reich's mastery of minimalism and avant-garde classical music. It is a testament to his ability to create music that is both deeply moving and intellectually engaging, making it a significant addition to any music lover's collection.

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.