Charles Wuorinen - Archaeopteryx (LP)

Dive into the avant-garde world of Charles Wuorinen with his 2008 album "Archaeopteryx," a compelling exploration of modern classical music. This album, released on Albany Records, is a testament to Wuorinen's prolific career, which spans over 260 compositions. "Archaeopteryx" is not just another album; it's a journey through the mind of one of the most innovative composers of our time.

The album opens with "Hyperion," a piece that sets the tone for the avant-garde journey ahead. The centerpiece, "Archaeopteryx," is a "pocket concerto" for bass trombone and 10 instruments, written specifically for David Taylor. This intense and involving piece showcases Wuorinen's ability to create complex, yet engaging, musical narratives.

The album also features a significant portion dedicated to Arnold Schoenberg's works, including "Five Pieces for Orchestra" and "Variations for Orchestra." By juxtaposing his own compositions with Schoenberg's seminal works, Wuorinen underscores a continuity in the evolution of modern classical music.

"Archaeopteryx" is a must-listen for anyone interested in the avant-garde genre. With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a substantial body of work that showcases Wuorinen's unique compositional style. Whether you're a long-time fan of Wuorinen or a newcomer to his music, "Archaeopteryx" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.