Customer Reviews

Cage: Music for Eight

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This CD contains some of the best recordings ever of Cage's work. Included are two different versions of 'Five' (1988) each with different instruments and both of which demonstrate the versitility of Cage's music, and of the Ensemble Avant Garde. This group are clearly the leading ensemble in such performance, and this is demonstrated further in 'Music for Eight' (1984/85/87) in which their selection of instruments and style with which they convey Cage's intent is second to none. Also included is a superb version of 'Aria' (1958) by Salome Kammer who's virtuosity is displayed to its fullest in Cage's showcase for vocal talent. This CD is worth buying for this performance alone. 'Aria' is possibly the finest work conceived by Cage, and Kammer brings it alive, comforting and disturbing all at once, to leave a long-lasting effect on the listener. 'String Quartet in Four Parts' (1949/50) concludes, performed by the Leipziger Steichquartett. Effectively Cage's version of 'The Four Seasons', both music and group are inspiring. Never before has such a skilled and vibrant collection of musicians produced such fantastic performances of such fantastic works. Truly a landmark in the documentation of Cage's output.

I agree with the former reviewer: fantastic performances of fantastic works. However, I warn the potential buyer that the dynamic level of this CD is too low, as if the listener was placed outside the concert room by the sound technicians. That is especially evident (and lamentable) in the "Aria". The music and performances are wonderful, and I would surely buy this CD again if it were remastered to a proper dynamic level.