James Tenney - James Tenney: Bass Works (LP)

Immerse yourself in the avant-garde soundscapes of James Tenney's "Bass Works," a compelling collection of experimental compositions that span over four decades. Released on November 25, 2016, under the hat[now]ART label, this album is a testament to Tenney's innovative approach to minimalism and experimental music.

The album opens with three tracks from 1971, "(Beast)," "(night)," and "(night) (2)," offering a glimpse into Tenney's early explorations. The remainder of the album is dedicated to the "Glissade" series, composed in 1982 for viola, cello, double bass, and a tape delay system. Each of the five tracks in this series—"Shimmer," "Array (a'sysing)," "Bessel Functions of the First Kind," "Trias Harmonica," and "Stochastic-canonic Variations"—showcases Tenney's intricate and meticulous compositional style, blending acoustic and electronic elements to create a unique sonic experience.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes, "Bass Works" is a journey through Tenney's musical evolution, highlighting his ability to push the boundaries of traditional composition. Whether you're a seasoned fan of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.