"Altamirage" is a captivating exploration of sound and texture, crafted by the pioneering composer Pauline Oliveros. Released on October 21, 2022, under the independent label Infrequent Seams, this album is a testament to Oliveros' innovative spirit and her enduring influence on experimental music. Spanning just over 42 minutes, the album is a journey through drone, avant-garde, minimalism, ambient, and experimental genres, showcasing Oliveros' ability to blend these styles into a cohesive and immersive auditory experience.
The album opens with "Outline: for flute, percussion and string bass," setting the stage for the diverse instrumental combinations that follow. The centerpiece of the album is a series of five "Trio For Trumpet, Accordion, and String Bass" compositions, each offering a unique exploration of these instruments' capabilities. These pieces are interspersed with four "Altamirage" compositions, which provide a drone and ambient counterpoint to the more structured trio pieces.
Oliveros' work on "Altamirage" is a testament to her deep understanding of sound and her ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. The album is a must-listen for fans of experimental and avant-garde music, as well as for those seeking to explore the outer reaches of ambient and drone music. With "Altamirage," Pauline Oliveros invites listeners to engage with sound in a new and profound way, offering a unique perspective on the possibilities of music.
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