Kronos Quartet - Black Angels (256)

Kronos Quartet are a couple musicians who I really only know a little about. I first heard them on the charity album Dark Was the Night, which I have raved about in the past. They contributed the title track, which, admittedly, was a bit strange. The track consisted of awkward cellos making noises that most people would say are simply that: noises.

I heard a bit about them on NPR, which was a very favorable review of their newest composition. I have no idea which one that was.

So, my life moved on. Then I read about this album/collection/thing on 1000recordingstohearbeforeyoudie and I was finally sold. I think their description of this music does a lot more justice to the recording than I could do, explaining symbolism that I wouldn't have known, as well as the actual composer's (Crumb) methodology behind creating the music.

The first three tracks are Crumb's compositions, which are absolutely full of dissonant noise, nerve-wracking cacophony and dark and fear-inspiring sessions of cello-centered ecstasy. You might not believe that the sounds are actually coming from stringed instruments, unless you play one yourself.

The rest of the collection is a much more conventional selection of arrangements, sad and emotional pieces that would be perfect, were they set to some sort of apocalypse. Black Angels has been touted as one of the darkest collections of music available, and you might understand that if you scroll back up and read the 1000recordings description.

In any case, it makes for a very entertaining listen, and if you really want to be put out of it, turn off the lights, put your headphones on, and just kind of listen to it. It's something to focus on, and it'll make you think.

Download here, and buy it here.

Peter Broderick & Machinefabriek - Blank Grey Canvas Sky (320)

I had only had experience with Peter Broderick before getting this masterpiece. I think it should speak for itself, but I suppose if you had to put a tag on this you might call it ambient classical. There are hints of electronic influences throughout the songs but the whole thing is basically an ethereal wonderland. When you listen to this, try and listen with your heart, and let your imagination go crazy.

Download here, buy it here.

It's short, so just give it a shot.

Andrei Machado - Lacuna (V0)

Piano is a beautiful instrument.

Ambient, minimal and at the same time thick with emotion.

La Mi Realidad

Download it here.

This music free to share under a Creative Commons Music Sharing License.

Andrei Machado on Myspace.

Philip Glass - Koyaanisqatsi (V0)

Koyaanisqatsi is the soundtrack partner to the film of the same name. Now, I haven't even seen the film, although I've heard a lot about it. I found this soundtrack because I'm a huge fan of Philip Glass, and honestly this is my favorite work of his.

This soundtrack is an out and out masterpiece. Six tracks of some of the most excellent compositions I have ever heard. It stands up so well on it's own even without the film. You can listen to it while knowing absolutely nothing about the film, like I did on my first listen, and you'll still be driven through an experience like never before. It's honestly hard for me to try and find a way to describe the sound. It uses full orchestras, choirs, and then uses synthesizers as well. And boy they are used to their full extent. There isn't much I can say to paint a good picture as to what to expect, but going into it blind is half the fun.

I've discussed this soundtrack with others, and everybody agreed it was an experience like no other. Some went as far to say it was life-changing. This is one of those things you just have to experience to understand it... So I recommend anyone and everyone to listen to this. It's not the kind of thing to listen to many many times, but the experience of your first full listen is one that you'll never have again. Without words, this album will give you so much to think about, and to contemplate. It'll leave you speechless.

Highlights: Koyaanisqatsi, Pruit Igoe, Prophecies

Download here.