Giacinto Scelsi's "Okanagon" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde and minimalist music, released on January 1, 1993, under the hat ART CD label. This album is a testament to Scelsi's innovative approach to composition, featuring a diverse range of solo and ensemble pieces that span from 1956 to 1987. The compositions are performed by various soloists, each bringing their unique interpretation to Scelsi's intricate and meditative works.
The album opens with "Maknongan" for double bass solo, showcasing the depth and resonance of the instrument. The "Tre pezzi" for trombone solo, composed in 1956, offers a striking contrast with its bold and expressive tones. "Wo Ma" for bass voice solo, composed in 1960, is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of the human voice, divided into four distinct parts. The double bass solos "C'est bien la nuit" and "Le réveil profond," composed in 1972 and 1977 respectively, delve into the darker, more introspective aspects of Scelsi's musical language.
The ensemble piece "Et Maintenant, c'est a vous a jouer" for cello and double bass, composed in 1974, highlights the interplay between these two instruments. "Okanagon" for harp, double bass, and tam tam, composed in 1968, is a mesmerizing blend of textures and timbres. The album concludes with "Mantram" for double bass solo, a piece that encapsulates the essence of Scelsi's minimalist style.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, "Okanagon" is a profound journey through Scelsi's musical universe, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for those interested in the avant-garde and minimalist genres.
Vinylscout