Michael Daugherty's "Tales of Hemingway, American Gothic & Once upon a Castle" is a captivating journey through the realms of avant-garde music, released on September 9, 2016, under the Naxos label. This album is a testament to Daugherty's unique compositional style, blending literary inspiration with contemporary musical innovation.
The album is divided into three distinct suites, each offering a unique sonic experience. The first suite, "Tales of Hemingway," draws inspiration from the works of Ernest Hemingway, with each movement named after one of his notable works. The second suite, "American Gothic," is a three-movement exploration of American culture and iconography. The final suite, "Once upon a Castle (Revised 2015 Version)," is a revised and expanded version of Daugherty's earlier work, inspired by the opulent Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California.
Each track is performed live, adding a sense of immediacy and energy to the recordings. The album's duration is approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes, offering a substantial exploration of Daugherty's musical vision. Whether you're a fan of avant-garde music or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, this album is sure to provide a memorable listening experience.