John Cage - Cage: The Works for Percussion, Vol. 4 – Music for Speaking Percussionist (LP)

Immerse yourself in the avant-garde world of John Cage with "Cage: The Works for Percussion, Vol. 4 – Music for Speaking Percussionist." Released in 2017 under Mode Records - Avant, this album is a captivating exploration of Cage's experimental and minimalist compositions, specifically tailored for percussion with spoken elements. The album features five tracks, each a unique realization of Cage's works, performed with virtuosity by Bonnie Whiting.

The album opens with "A Flower," a piece that complements "The Wonderful Widow of 18 Springs," followed by the intricate "51'15.657" (Realization of 45' for a Speaker & 27'10.554" for a Percussionist). Whiting's performances blend fast-paced spoken lyrics with unconventional percussion, creating a sound that is both impressive and thought-provoking. The album also includes "Music for Two (By One)," "Connecting Egypt to Madison through Columbus Ohio, Cage, and the History of the American Labor Movement," and "The Wonderful Widow of 18 Springs," each showcasing Cage's innovative approach to music and performance.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a testament to Cage's enduring influence on experimental and avant-garde music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Cage's work or a newcomer to his unique compositions, "Cage: The Works for Percussion, Vol. 4 – Music for Speaking Percussionist" offers a compelling journey through the mind of one of the most innovative composers of the 20th century.