Anthony Cheung's "Cheung: Dystemporal" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde music, released on June 10, 2016, under the label wergo. This album is a testament to Cheung's innovative compositional style, blending intricate structures with a sense of fluidity and spontaneity. Spanning just over an hour, the album is divided into three multi-movement works: "SynchroniCities," "Centripedalocity," and the titular "Dystemporal."
"SynchroniCities" opens the album with a series of interconnected movements that evoke a sense of urban dynamism and rhythmic complexity. Cheung's use of layered textures and polyrhythms creates a vivid soundscape that feels both structured and organic. "Centripedalocity" follows, offering a more introspective journey with its three movements. The first, "Faux d’artifice," is a playful yet sophisticated piece, while the second, "Escape-Cadence Free-Fall (3rd unRaveling)," delves into a more abstract and free-form expression. The final movement, "Anadiplosis," brings a sense of resolution and cohesion to the work.
The album concludes with "Dystemporal," a two-movement piece that explores temporal dissonance and the interplay between different musical layers. Cheung's ability to manipulate time and rhythm is evident in these movements, creating a sense of both tension and release. Throughout the album, Cheung's compositions are marked by their technical precision and emotional depth, making "Cheung: Dystemporal" a compelling listen for those interested in the boundaries of contemporary classical music.
