Thomas Larcher - Thomas Larcher: What Becomes (LP)

Immerse yourself in the captivating sound world of Thomas Larcher with his 2014 album, "What Becomes." This collection, released on the prestigious Harmonia Mundi label, showcases Larcher's unique ability to blend contemplative harmonies with innovative performance techniques, resulting in a mesmerizing auditory experience.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, the album comprises three distinct works for piano: "Smart Dust" (2005), "Poems" (2005–2010), and the titular "What Becomes" (2014). Each piece is a testament to Larcher's compositional prowess, offering a diverse range of musical textures and moods. "Smart Dust" features two contrasting movements, "Very slow" and "Very fast," while "Poems" is a cycle of twelve pieces, each inspired by a different poetic image or narrative. "What Becomes" concludes the album with six evocative movements, including the haunting "Fission" and the serene "Flowing."

A highlight of the album is "A Padmore Cycle," a set of songs written in 2011 for tenor Mark Padmore. These songs, set to poems by Hans Aschenwald and Alois Hotschnig, demonstrate Larcher's skill in vocal composition and his ability to create deeply expressive and intimate musical moments.

Throughout "What Becomes," Thomas Larcher's originality and creativity shine through, making this album a compelling addition to any contemporary music enthusiast's collection. The album features performances by renowned artists Mark Padmore and Tamara Stefanovich, further enhancing the listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Larcher's work or a newcomer to his music, "What Becomes" offers a rich and rewarding exploration of one of today's most innovative composers.