Iannis Xenakis, a visionary composer known for his prophetic insights into the future of music, presents "Xenakis: Choral Music," a captivating collection of avant-garde and experimental choral works released in February 1998 under the Hyperion label. This album, spanning 57 minutes and 26 seconds, is a testament to Xenakis' innovative approach to music, blending ancient myths with contemporary composition techniques.
The album features the Danish National Symphony Choir, conducted by Jesper Grove Jorgensen, performing in the Danish Radio Concert Hall, Copenhagen. The five tracks, "A Colone," "Nuits," "Serment," "Knephas," and "Medea," showcase Xenakis' unique method of instrumentalizing the voice, stripping it of text in some pieces and basing others on ancient tragedies.
"A Colone" opens the album with a triumphant and forceful contrast between instrumental and vocal forces, setting the tone for the rest of the collection. "Nuits" and "Knephas" explore the human voice as an instrument, while "Medea" delves into the realm of ancient tragedy. Each piece is a demonstration of Xenakis' revolutionary approach to music, which often incorporates mathematical principles and stochastic methods.
This album is a journey through Xenakis' distinctive sound world, offering listeners a chance to experience the composer's groundbreaking work in the choral genre. It's a fascinating exploration of the intersection between ancient myths and contemporary music, making it a compelling addition to any music lover's collection.
Vinylscout