58. Philip Glass: Glassworks

 

Released: 1982

Chosen By: Dean

Comments - 

Ben:  Just spent a lovely 40 minutes listening to Glassworks. In our lovely garden room, with Henry snoozing on my lap and a nice cup of coffee clutched to my chest, I was hypnotised by the repeating phrases and beautiful sounds. It was very much like a meditation, with the music triggering a constant stream of colours, shapes and thoughts, each instantly washed away and replaced by the next. The first pieces reminded me of Disney music, Fantasia and Bambi of all things, but these conscious thoughts were soon washed away. Fair play Dean, I started listening with a bit of scepticism but ended up really enjoying the experience.

Paul: I was familiar with some Philip Glass' music from the soundtrack of the film Koyaanisqatsi which occasionally blared out from the cassette player of my Triumph 1500TC. This is from a similar time and even features music that didn't make the cut for the film (Facades - the fifth track.)

It is more accessible and that's no bad thing. I particularly like the piano of Opening and the rhythmic patterns throughout never become overwhelming. Top pick for me though is the fourth movement - Rubric. The music seems to get into me and connect in a way I don't understand and can't explain. Damn fine choice Dean.

Dean: Wonderful responses. Here is what I hear:

1 Opening, the repetitiveness of life - beautiful and therefore abstruse?

2 Floe, scary unrelenting progression of time and development. No taming this despot, the end is apparent.

3 Islands, something small but unrelenting begins. Destiny has long reaching and sensitive fingers.

4 Rubric, magic, a balance act. Connections, what has been and what will emerge. And it's on the march.

5 Facades, melancholy doubt. A plaintive voice inherits the void.

6 Closing, optimism grapples with despair. We have arrived.

Can't think of a better way to spend time with a grandchild. I simply think it was perfect. Glad you liked it Paul- I'll now go watch Koyaanisqatsi. I'm sure it will not disappoint.

Not sure about the order of things but all engage 🌟

Stu: PHILLIP GLASS ❤️❤️❤️❤️ whilst I’m chilling listening to old LPS, back to this beauty! He plays more notes in one song than Jon Hopkins did on his entire LP! Gorgeous piano on the opener weaving beautifully patterns and melodies, frantic yet hypnotic. Next up change of instruments and another frantic display slowed down and punctuated with some horn. Glass is all genius, eccentric, virtuoso and fun 🤩

Fascinated to discover that he attended the Juilliard School of Music along with Steve Reich! Please go check him out and enjoy his music!

There is a lot of repetition which is cut and pasted exceptionally well. It’s a task for the ears to take it all in but the repetition really does keep you invested in the music. 🌟