"Stockhausen: Zyklus - Refrain - Kontakte" is a seminal work by the pioneering composer Karlheinz Stockhausen, released on November 16, 1993, under Universal Music Division Decca Records France. This album is a captivating exploration of avant-garde, krautrock, experimental, and minimalist genres, showcasing Stockhausen's innovative approach to music. The album features three seminal compositions: "Zyklus," "Refrain," and "Kontakte," each offering a unique sonic experience that highlights Stockhausen's mastery of percussion and electronic elements.
"Zyklus," composed in 1959, is a groundbreaking piece for solo percussion, requiring the performer to navigate a complex spatial arrangement of instruments. "Refrain," created between 1959 and 1968, is a dynamic work that integrates electronic sounds with live performance, pushing the boundaries of traditional music. "Kontakte," completed in 1960, is a seminal work that combines electronic music with live percussion, exemplifying Stockhausen's pioneering use of technology in composition.
Performers Florent Jodelet, Gérard Frémy, and Jean Efflam Bavouzet bring these compositions to life with precision and artistry, making this album a essential addition to any collection of experimental music. With a total duration of one hour and four minutes, "Stockhausen: Zyklus - Refrain - Kontakte" offers a deep dive into the innovative and influential world of Karlheinz Stockhausen, a composer who has left an indelible mark on the landscape of modern music.