"Resounding Earth" is a captivating album by the prolific composer Augusta Read Thomas, released on New Focus Recordings in 2013. This 32-minute journey is a testament to Thomas' unbridled passion and fierce poetry, showcasing her impressive body of work that has earned her a Grammy-winning CD feature with Chanticleer. The album is a collaboration with the University of Notre Dame's resident ensemble, Third Coast Percussion, and explores the rich, resonant world of percussion music.
The album is divided into four movements, each with its own unique character and title: "Invocation: Pulse Radiance," "Prayer: Star Dust Orbits," "Mantra: Ceremonial Time Shapes," and "Reverie Carillon: Crystal Lattice." Thomas employs an impressive array of 120 bells to create a wide variety of effects, paying tribute to the versatility and beauty of percussion instruments.
"Resounding Earth" is not just an album; it's an exploration of sound and texture, a celebration of the percussion family, and a showcase of Augusta Read Thomas' compositional prowess. With its intricate layers and evocative titles, the album invites listeners to immerse themselves in a world of sonic exploration. Thomas' work is known for its depth and complexity, and "Resounding Earth" is no exception. It's a piece that demands attention and rewards repeated listening, revealing new layers and nuances with each play.