Thomas Adès - Illuminating from within (LP)

Thomas Adès, the acclaimed British composer and pianist, presents a captivating collection of his own works in "Illuminating from within," released on October 29, 2015, under the prestigious La Buissonne label. This classical piano album offers a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Adès' virtuosic skill and innovative musical language.

The album opens with the three-part "Traced Overhead" suite, each movement titled "Sursum," "Aetheria," and "Chori," respectively. These pieces are followed by a trio of Mazurkas, each with its own distinct character and rhythmic complexity. The album also features "Darknesse Visible," a hauntingly beautiful solo piano piece, and "Still Sorrowing," a deeply introspective work.

A highlight of the album is the four-part "Concert Paraphrase on Powder her Face," a set of variations based on themes from Adès' opera of the same name. These paraphrases demonstrate Adès' ability to transform and reimagine his own musical ideas, creating a fascinating dialogue between his operatic and instrumental works.

With a total duration of one hour, "Illuminating from within" offers a comprehensive exploration of Thomas Adès' pianistic repertoire. The album is a testament to his unique voice in contemporary classical music, blending technical brilliance with profound emotional depth. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Adès' work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.