IN C (WITH BANG ON A CAN)

Terry Riley masterpiece in the hands of the hyper-active and creative "Bang on a Can" ensemble, in the, at least, twelfth version of this multi-experimental composition. The feeling as opposed to the original release, is more "world music" oriented, I mean, of course not the common association with the style, but that of the inherent musical "canon' non-western instruments possess. The use of a koto, ties you down to its tuning for example. So as expected fom this ensemble, no matter what or who they play, it is almost impossible to mistake them for someone else. That is almost miraculous, considering they have covered an extended line of works, of most of the contemporary composers, "classical" and not. (They have their own version of Brian Eno's "Music for Airports", also highly recommendable).

A masterpiece in the hands of "Bang on a Can", rarely loses, but the opposite, normally grows out, even from the original limits, and as if magic,developes branches that were even overlooked by the composer himself.

The 2nd best way to be introduced to this "ground breaking", ahead of its time, really not a Prog (although adopted in this sub-genre), more a classical music "Masterwork". The first original version is still the best for me, but this one comes as close as you can get with added drops of inspiration by this ensemble.

****4.5 PA stars.

Climb the ladder!