Toshio Hosokawa's "Meditation, Nach dem Sturm & Klage" is a profound and moving orchestral triptych, released on June 8, 2018, under the Naxos label. This experimental album is a deeply personal response by the award-winning composer to the devastating 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. Spanning just under an hour and nine minutes, the album comprises four tracks that weave a tapestry of sorrow, hope, and healing.
The album opens with "Meditation," a quiet and somber piece that mourns the victims of the tragedy. "Nach dem Sturm" follows, incorporating shamanic elements to evoke the stormy darkness and the glimmer of hope that emerges from it. The third track, "Klage," seeks to bridge the gap between our world and the supernatural, offering a sense of solace and connection. The album concludes with "Autumn Winds," a piece that unifies man and nature through the timeless sound of the shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese flute.
Performed by the Basque National Orchestra under the direction of Jun Märkl, this album is a testament to Hosokawa's ability to translate personal and collective trauma into a powerful musical narrative. Each track is a journey in itself, blending experimental sounds with traditional influences to create a unique and deeply resonant listening experience. Whether you're a fan of experimental music or simply seeking a profound and moving musical experience, "Meditation, Nach dem Sturm & Klage" is an album that will leave a lasting impression.
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