Karlheinz Stockhausen's "Kurzwellen" (Short Waves), released on Mode Records in April 2018, is a groundbreaking work of experimental and avant-garde music that challenges the boundaries of traditional composition. Originally composed in 1968, this album is a testament to Stockhausen's innovative spirit and his pioneering role in the development of electronic and experimental music.
The album features 31 tracks, each a unique exploration of sound and form, with a total runtime of 47 minutes. "Kurzwellen" is performed by the Ensemble C.L.S.I., who bring Stockhausen's intricate and complex score to life. The composition involves six players equipped with shortwave radio receivers and live electronics, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both intricate and immersive.
The album's genres span avant-garde, krautrock, experimental, and minimalism, reflecting Stockhausen's diverse influences and his relentless pursuit of new musical territories. Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing Stockhausen's mastery of form and his ability to create compelling musical narratives.
"Kurzwellen" is not just an album; it is an experience that demands the listener's full attention. The interplay between the live instruments and the shortwave radio transmissions creates a dynamic and ever-changing soundscape that is both challenging and rewarding. Stockhausen's use of technology and his exploration of the possibilities of live electronics make "Kurzwellen" a landmark work in the history of experimental music.
For those interested in the avant-garde and the cutting edge of musical composition, "Kurzwellen" is a must-listen. It offers a unique insight into the mind of one of the 20th century's most innovative composers and provides a glimpse into the future of music. Whether you are a seasoned fan of experimental music or a newcomer looking to explore new sounds, "Kurzwellen" is an album that will expand your horizons and challenge your perceptions of what music can be.
2018 Mode Records2018 Mode Records
Tracks
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1 (Realization by Ensemble C.L.S.I.): Introduction Shortwave Radio QuartetKarlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1 (Realization by Ensemble C.L.S.I.): Introduction Instrumental QuartetKarlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: First W Radio Solo, Followed by Instrumental Quartet [4 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Instrumental Duo [2 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [1 Synchronous Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Second W Radio Solo Followed by Instrumental quartet [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Radio Followed by Instrumental Quartet [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Beginning of System Event Followed by Instrumental Quartet [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Instrumental Duo [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [4 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Third W Radio Solo Followed by Instrumental quartet [3 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [3 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Instrumental Trio [5 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [1 Synchronous Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [3 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Fourth W Radio Solo Followed by Instrumental Quartet [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Instrumental Duo [5 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Instrumental Trio [4 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Quartet [4 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Duo [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Trio [3 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [6 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Duo [2 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Quartet [3 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Duo [4 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental & Radio Trio [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
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