Riley: The Harp of New Albion

Immerse yourself in the atmospheric and meditative sounds of Terry Riley's "The Harp of New Albion," a masterful exploration of minimalism and avant-garde composition. Released on January 1, 1986, under the Celestial Harmonies label, this double LP is a testament to Riley's pioneering spirit in the realms of experimental and drone music. Comprising ten captivating tracks, the album stretches over an hour and fifty minutes, offering a rich tapestry of unique reverberating harmonics and intricate piano work.

"The Harp of New Albion" is a work for piano in just intonation, commissioned by the Cologne Radio in West Germany. Recorded in Munich in 1986, the album showcases Riley's mastery of the acoustic piano, creating a sonic landscape that is both ethereal and deeply rooted in musical tradition. This composition is the third part of what Terry Riley considers his Native American Mythological trilogy, adding a layer of cultural depth to the musical experience.

Each track, from "The New Albion Chorale / The Discovery" to "Land's End," is a journey in itself, inviting listeners to explore the nuances of minimalist and New Age music. Terry Riley's innovative approach to composition and his use of a 'Well-Tuned Piano' make this album a standout in his discography and a significant contribution to the genre. Whether you're a long-time fan of Terry Riley or a newcomer to his work, "The Harp of New Albion" promises an enriching and immersive listening experience.

Terry Riley, born in 1935, is a pioneering American composer renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the minimalist music genre. His innovative approach, blending influences from jazz and Indian classical music, has left an indelible mark on experimental, rock, and electronic music. Riley's most celebrated works, the 1964 composition "In C" and the 1969 album "A Rainbow in Curved Air," are seminal pieces that have defined minimalism and continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Throughout his career, Riley has collaborated with diverse artists, including the Kronos Quartet and Pandit Pran Nath, and his explorations into just intonation and improvisation have expanded the boundaries of contemporary music. From his early experiments with La Monte Young and Fluxus to his ongoing collaborations, Terry Riley's music offers a rich tapestry of sound that invites listeners to explore the depths of musical repetition and innovation.