Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of "East," a captivating album by the talented tenor William George, accompanied by the skilled guitarist Michael Strutt. Released on December 5, 2017, under Redshift Records, this contemporary music collection is a beautiful fusion of Asian and Middle Eastern poetry, set to the intimate combination of voice and guitar.
Spanning 58 minutes, "East" is a journey through 23 tracks that weave together diverse cultural influences and poetic expressions. The album opens with "Chinese Gardens," a four-part suite that paints vivid images of serene and meticulously designed landscapes. It continues with "Two Chinese Songs" and "Three Moon Songs of Li-Po," offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese poetry and philosophy. The album also features "The Basho Fragments," inspired by the haikus of the renowned Japanese poet Matsuo Bashō, and "Two Omar Khayyām Songs," drawing from the Persian mathematician, astronomer, and poet's works.
The final section, "Unseen Rain," is a seven-part cycle that delves into themes of introspection and reflection, culminating in a profound exploration of human experiences. The album concludes with a poignant rendition of Dylan Thomas's "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night," a timeless piece that resonates with universal emotions.
William George's exquisite tenor voice, combined with Michael Strutt's masterful guitar playing, creates a mesmerizing soundscape that is both delicate and powerful. "East" is a testament to the artists' ability to blend diverse cultural elements into a cohesive and evocative musical experience. Whether you're a fan of contemporary classical music, world music, or poetry set to music, "East" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to captivate and inspire.
