Customer Reviews

Philip Glass: Heroes Symphony; Low Symphony (Based on the Music of David Bowie and Brian Eno)

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This is not one of those "The String Quartet Tribute to..." albums. Bowie's music from some of his best albums (two of his Berlin trilogy) is re-processed by Philip Glass and given his trademarked minimalist/repetitive treatment.

For the most part, casual listeners will find almost impossible to recognize the source material, even after reading the titles. This is Philip Glass at his most accessible, but it's still Philip Glass: Bowie fans should try before they buy.

This is a two-sided CD: Heroes Symphony on one cd and The Low Sympony on the other. I was not too fussed about the Heroes Symph, however the Low Symphony is quite brilliant, especially what it builds to in the last 10 or 15 minutes. It is sublime and I heard it only once, then tracked it down and ordered it as an import from Amazon uk. Quite brilliant.

First of all, this music is symphonic and classically (if minimally) based -- if you're looking for rock and roll, look elsewhere.

Secondly, however, if the Eno portions -- the more abstract, usually instrumental -- of the Heroes and Low Bowie albums speak to you, do not let the "symphonic" or "classical" labels put you off. This music is a revelation.

Third, if you are a strictly classical listener, even if minimalism isn't you're thing, give this album a chance.

Both symphonies have thrilling, contemplative, and deeply moving moments. The "Heroes" symphony features Glass' signature of a nearly constant rhythmic undertone melody most prominently. The first and sixth (last) movements are uplifting and sometimes chilling affirmations of life. I get goosebumps at the last movement's finale. If you want contemplative, more subtle Glass, the "Low" symphony will affect you deeply, although there are some ripsnorting adventurous themes. I have played both of them repeatedly while writing, drawing and painting, or even for simple home tasks, and find that Glass is always my friend ... I think he's a genius, perhaps the only living classical composer who can write for all time and our time.

I know this review dwells on the emotional responses and not an artistic criticism, but isn't that ineffable thrill what music is for?

I should have taken the other reviews to heart. I am a Bowie fan. This is NOT Bowie. Bowie's Low and Heros albums are raw and edgy. This symphony remake is way too "artsy" and unnecessarily complicated. Althought if you like classical music, you might like this CD.