Terry Riley: Four Four Three

Terry Riley's "Four Four Three" is a captivating exploration of minimalist and avant-garde music, released in 2016 under the Channel Classics label. This album features two seminal works by the pioneering composer Terry Riley, known for his foundational role in the minimalist movement. The centerpiece is a unique interpretation of his iconic "In C," a piece that has been a cornerstone of experimental music since its original recording in 1968. This version, arranged for string quartet, horn, electric guitar, and percussion, offers a fresh perspective on Riley's groundbreaking composition.

The album also includes "Sunrise of the Planetary Dream Collector," another seminal work by Riley, reimagined for the same ensemble. This piece, with its drone and ambient elements, showcases Riley's ability to blend traditional and experimental musical techniques. The performance features the Ragazze Quartet, Kapok, and Slagwerk Den Haag, who bring a rich texture and depth to Riley's compositions.

With a duration of 57 minutes, "Four Four Three" is a testament to Riley's enduring influence and innovation in the world of classical and experimental music. This album is a must-listen for fans of minimalist and avant-garde genres, offering a unique and engaging musical 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.