Editorial Reviews

The fourth volume of Timpani's series of orchestral works by Iannis Xenakis presents four works from three distinct periods, though not in chronological order. "Erikhthon for piano and orchestra" (1974) is one of the "arborescent" or branch-like compositions from Xenakis' middle phase. Expanding and contracting through criss-crossing glissandi and bending clusters, the extremely loud and aggressive orchestra overwhelms the impossibly dense and struggling piano part; in this role reversal, "Erikhthon" may be regarded as the absolute antithesis of the conventional piano concerto. "Ata" (1987) is a late work, contrapuntal in nature but with the difference that the polyphonic lines are all tightly bunched in clusters; it also features a sly reference to Stravinsky's "Le Sacre du printemps," which is unexpected and hilarious. "Akrata for 16 instruments" (1964-1965) is the earliest work; in its exploration of long durations and rhythmic "granulations" of pitch, it reflects the mathematical theories that occupied Xenakis at the time. "Krinoïdl" (1991) is remarkably similar to "Ata" in its contrapuntal deployment of clusters, though it has none of that work's humor. The Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg, conducted by Arturo Tamayo, plays with extreme vigor and brilliance in all the selections, but especially so in the delightfully chaotic "Erikhthon," where it battles valiant virtuoso pianist Hiroaki Ooï. The sound quality is stunningly realistic. Blair Sanderson, All Music Guide

Customer Reviews

• Listener Rating: