Luciano Berio - Berio: A-Ronne; Cries of London (LP)

Dive into the avant-garde world of Luciano Berio with this captivating 1976 release, a unique blend of vocal artistry and experimental composition. This album showcases two distinct works: "A-Ronne," a six-part vocal piece that pushes the boundaries of language and sound, and "Cries of London," a mesmerizing composition for eight voices that originally premiered in 1974 and was expanded for this recording.

"Cries of London" is a fascinating exploration of London's street vendors, capturing the essence of the city's vibrant atmosphere through a series of vocal improvisations and structured passages. The piece is performed by the renowned vocal ensemble Swingle II, known for their precise delivery and innovative approach to vocal music.

"A-Ronne," on the other hand, is a groundbreaking work that challenges conventional notions of text and meaning. Berio deconstructs and reconstructs the text of a poem by Edoardo Sanguineti, creating a complex web of phonetic sounds and fragmented words that defy easy interpretation. The result is a captivating sonic landscape that invites repeated listening and exploration.

Recorded in Decca Studio 3, West Hampstead, London, this album features stunning performances by Swingle II, accompanied by a 4-page, 12" x 12" booklet that provides valuable insights into Berio's creative process. With a total duration of 44 minutes, this album is a testament to Berio's enduring influence on the world of avant-garde music.