Steve Reich: Reich/Richter

Steve Reich, a titan of minimalist composition, presents his 2019 work "Reich/Richter," a captivating exploration of rhythm and pattern, now available on Nonesuch Records. This album is the first recording of the piece, performed by the esteemed Ensemble Intercontemporain under the direction of George Jackson. Comprising four tracks—"Opening," "Patterns & Scales," "Cross Fades," and "Ending"—the album spans a concise yet impactful 36 minutes, offering a deep dive into Reich's signature style.

Originally conceived to accompany German visual artist Gerhard Richter and Corinna Belz's film "Moving Picture (946-3)," "Reich/Richter" is a testament to Reich's enduring influence and innovative spirit. The composition's bright, rhythmically agile nature showcases Reich's ability to blend mathematical precision with profound musical expression. Critics have hailed it as one of Reich's most impressive recent works, praising its elegant performance and intricate layers.

This release is a must for fans of minimalist and avant-garde music, offering a fresh perspective on Reich's enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime admirer or new to his work, "Reich/Richter" promises an engaging and intellectually stimulating listening experience.

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.