Jonathan Harvey - Harvey: Speakings (LP)

Jonathan Harvey's "Harvey: Speakings" is a profound and intricate exploration of sound, released in 2010 under the Aeon label. This avant-garde masterpiece, recorded live at Glasgow's City Hall by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Ilan Volkov, is a testament to Harvey's innovative approach to composition. The album features five tracks that span a total of 56 minutes, each offering a unique blend of plainchant, Buddhist ritual, and magical electronics, creating a deeply contemplative and strangely beautiful listening experience.

"Harvey: Speakings" is a culmination of Harvey's long-standing interest in vocal orchestration, presenting a total prototype that pushes the boundaries of orchestral prosody. The album's central climax, characterized by its mantra-like chant, is a highlight, while the coda drifts away weightlessly, leaving a lasting impression. The complexity and depth of the work have been praised by critics, with Andrew Clements describing it as "immensely complex and strangely beautiful."

This album is not just a collection of tracks but a journey through Harvey's unique sonic landscape, where traditional and modern elements coexist in harmony. Whether you're a seasoned fan of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, "Harvey: Speakings" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the genius of Jonathan Harvey.