Uri Caine's "The Goldberg Variations," released on June 2, 2000, under the Winter & Winter label, is a bold and innovative reinterpretation of Johann Sebastian Bach's iconic keyboard work. Caine, a versatile pianist and composer, blends free jazz, jazz, and Philly soul elements to create a unique and captivating sonic experience that spans over an hour and 40 minutes.
The album features a diverse range of tracks, including variations, canons, and other musical forms, each showcasing Caine's exceptional skill and creativity. From the intricate "Variation 1" to the soulful "Philly Soul Variation" and the lively "The Stomp Variation," the album offers a rich tapestry of sounds and styles. Caine also pays homage to other classical composers like Rachmaninoff, Vivaldi, Mozart, and Verdi, seamlessly integrating their influences into his jazz-infused arrangements.
What sets this album apart is Caine's fearless approach to reimagining classical music through a jazz lens. He deconstructs and reconstructs Bach's variations, adding his own improvisational flair and modern sensibilities. The result is a dynamic and engaging album that appeals to both jazz enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike.
"The Goldberg Variations" is not just a tribute to Bach but also a testament to Uri Caine's artistic vision and musical prowess. It's an album that invites listeners to explore the boundaries of genre and tradition, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless masterpiece.
2000 Winter & Winter2000 Winter & Winter
Tracks
AriaJohann Sebastian Bach, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variation 1Johann Sebastian Bach, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variation 2Johann Sebastian Bach, Uri Caine Ensemble
The Introitus VariationUri Caine, Kettwiger Bach Ensemble
The Dig It VariationUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
Logic's InventionUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
The Stuttering VariationUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variation 3, Canon at the UnisonJohann Sebastian Bach, Uri Caine Ensemble
The Hot Six VariationUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variation 5 (+8)Uri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
RachmaninoffUri Caine, Köln String Quartet
The Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde VariationUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
VivaldiUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variation for Saxophone & PianoUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variation 4Johann Sebastian Bach, Quartetto Italiano Di Viole Da Gamba
The Waltz VariationUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
The Carol VariationUri Caine, Kettwiger Bach Ensemble
Variation 6, Canon at the 2ndJohann Sebastian Bach, Uri Caine Ensemble
The Stomp VariationUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
The Nobody Knows VariationUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
Canon at the 3rd in 3/4Uri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variaton 7, GigueJohann Sebastian Bach, Uri Caine Ensemble
Variation 9, Canon at the 3rdUri Caine, Uri Caine Ensemble