Heiner Goebbels' "Surrogate Cities" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde music, released in March 2000 under the prestigious ECM New Series label. This album is a unique blend of orchestral and electronic elements, showcasing Goebbels' innovative approach to composition and sound design. The centerpiece of the album is the "Suite for Sampler and Orchestra," a multi-movement work that seamlessly integrates classical structures with contemporary electronic textures. Each movement, from the intricate "Chaconne" to the lively "Gavotte," offers a distinct sonic journey, demonstrating Goebbels' mastery of both traditional and modern musical forms.
In addition to the suite, the album features the hauntingly beautiful "The Horatian, 3 Songs," which delves into themes of history and mythology, and the atmospheric "In the Country of Last Things," inspired by Paul Auster's novel of the same name. The album's diverse tracks, ranging from the orchestral to the experimental, are united by Goebbels' signature attention to detail and his ability to create immersive soundscapes. With a total runtime of 69 minutes, "Surrogate Cities" is a testament to Heiner Goebbels' visionary artistry and his enduring influence on the avant-garde music scene.