"Perpetulum: Philip Glass, Gavin Bryars, Third Coast Percussion" is a captivating exploration of minimalism, classical, and neoclassical genres, released on March 29, 2019, under Orange Mountain Music. This album is a collaborative effort featuring the renowned Philip Glass, along with Gavin Bryars and the Third Coast Percussion ensemble. Spanning a total of 93 minutes, the album is a testament to the power of minimalist composition and the intricate interplay of percussion.
The album is divided into two distinct parts. The first half, "Aliens with Extraordinary Abilities," is a six-track suite that showcases the unique blend of Glass's minimalist style with the percussive prowess of Third Coast Percussion. Each track, from the intense "Torched and Wrecked" to the contemplative "Things May Be Changing (But Probably Not)," offers a different facet of this collaboration.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Gavin Bryars' "Perpetulum," a four-movement work that is performed by Third Coast Percussion. This section is a masterclass in neoclassical composition, with each movement building upon the last to create a cohesive and compelling whole. The album concludes with two additional tracks, "Ordering Instincts" and "The Other Side of the River," which serve as a fitting finale to this extraordinary musical journey.
"Perpetulum: Philip Glass, Gavin Bryars, Third Coast Percussion" is an album that demands attention and rewards repeated listening. It is a testament to the enduring power of minimalism and the boundless possibilities of percussion. Whether you're a longtime fan of Philip Glass or a newcomer to the world of neoclassical music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
