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Showing posts with the label Contemporary Classical

Yann Tiersen - Rathlin from a Distance | The Liquid Hour (2025)

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Yann Tiersen's double album, Rathlin from a Distance | The Liquid Hour , released on April 4, 2025, presents two distinct yet interconnected musical journeys. Rathlin from a Distance comprises eight introspective solo piano pieces, each named after locations Tiersen visited during his 2023 sailing tour, reflecting a meditative exploration of self and place. In contrast, The Liquid Hour delves into expansive electronic and psychedelic rhythms, inspired by Tiersen's nocturnal reflections on Belfast's lights during his voyage. This section features collaborations with vocalist Émilie Quinquis, adding depth to its atmospheric soundscapes. Critics have praised the album for its inventive fusion of classical and electronic elements, noting its ability to evoke both introspection and urgency. Overall, the album stands as a testament to Tiersen's versatility and depth as a composer. Genre : Contemporary Classical Country : France Final Verdict : 63% (Good Album) Yearly R...

Mari Samuelsen - LIFE (2024)

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"LIFE" is inspired by Samuelsen's experience of becoming a mother, reflecting the emotional discoveries of parenthood. The album features works by contemporary composers such as Olivia Belli, Bryce Dessner, Ludovico Einaudi, Nils Frahm, Jóhann Jóhannsson, Mário Laginha, Hania Rani, Max Richter, and Steve Reich, with a touch of Schubert. Samuelsen collaborated with musicians including the string players of Scoring Berlin, conducted by Jonathan Stockhammer, to create a kaleidoscopic musical reflection of emotions like love, happiness, curiosity, and the contrasts of new parenthood.  The album's rich contemporary color and contrast make it a compelling addition to the contemporary classical genre. Deutsche Grammophon Presto Music ABC News Genre : Contemporary Classical Country : Norway Final Verdict : 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 265th / 843 Highlight : Richter: She Remembers (From “The Leftovers”) Made me think of: Hilary Hahn Daniel Hope Alina Ibragimova #newalbum...

Ryuichi Sakamoto - Opus (2024)

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Opus is Ryuichi Sakamoto's poignant and meditative farewell, recorded during the final months of his life. The album, which features solo piano performances, is a retrospective journey through his illustrious career, revisiting compositions from his film scores such as Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence and The Last Emperor , as well as newer works like "Andata" and "Aqua." The album captures the raw, emotional depth of Sakamoto's music, emphasizing the stillness and introspection that define his later years. It's a deeply moving experience, offering a glimpse into the mind of a composer who was acutely aware of his mortality, making Opus not just an album, but a profound final statement from one of Japan's most iconic musicians​ ( The Arts Desk ) ​ ( Roger Ebert ) . Genre : Contemporary Classical Country : Japan Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 156th / 613 Highlight : Tong Poo Made me think of: Joe Hisaishi Max Richter Nils Frahm #n...

Kelly Moran - Moves in the Field (2024)

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Genre : Contemporary Classical Country : US Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 182th / 245 Highlight : Solar Flare Made me think of: Nils Frahm Ólafur Arnalds Arvo Pärts #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ContemporaryClassical #KellyMoran #US #LP #Album #release  

Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra & Gustavo Dudamel - Thomas Adès: Dante (2023)

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  Genre : Classical Country : US / Venezuela Final Verdict : 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 229th / 646 Highlight : Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": I. Dawn on the Sea of Purgatory— Made me think of: Igor Stravinsky John Adams Kaija Saariaho