At The Edge of The World

Wim Henderickx's "At The Edge of The World" is a captivating journey through the realms of contemporary classical music, released on March 18, 2016, by the Royal Flemish Philharmonic. This album is a testament to Henderickx's unique compositional voice, blending a diverse array of influences from African percussion to Indonesian gamelan music, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both innovative and deeply resonant.

The album opens with the monumental Symphony No. 1 "At the Edge of the World," a five-movement work that explores themes of myth, melancholy, and the sublime. Each movement, from the dramatic "Marsyas" to the enigmatic "Leviathan," offers a distinct emotional and sonic landscape, showcasing Henderickx's mastery of orchestral color and form.

Following the symphony, the album presents the Oboe Concerto "Empty Mind I," a work that pushes the boundaries of the concerto genre by incorporating electronics and exploring states of consciousness and spiritual awakening. The concerto is performed by the virtuosic oboist Piet Van Bockstal, with the Royal Flemish Philharmonic conducted by Edo de Waart and Martyn Brabbins.

The final piece on the album, "Groove! for Percussion and Orchestra," is a thrilling exploration of rhythm and groove, featuring the percussionist Pieterjan Vranckx. This three-movement work, interspersed with two interludes, draws on a wide range of global percussion traditions, creating a vibrant and dynamic musical experience.

"At The Edge of The World" is a compelling exploration of contemporary classical music, offering a rich and diverse listening experience that is sure to captivate and inspire. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 57 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding journey through the musical imagination of Wim Henderickx.