This disc is a very fine introduction to György Ligeti's early works. I shall only review two of the performances, however: Aventures and Lux Aeterna.
Aventures, for 3 voices & 7 instruments. This is an extremely witty, radical, and disturbing piece of music in an outstanding and inspired performance. Many people would probably say that this is not music. But the impact of this work is irresistible: three singers making various noises, representing different emotional conditions, and seven musicians torturing their instruments. But everything in this violent performance is under complete control and a case of exemplary musical discipline. Stunning! (All the Ligeti Aventures are available in a separate DG set.)
Lux Aeterna, for 16-voice mixed chorus. The opposite of the previous work. Here we have an almost immobile, hovering, and sublime piece of choral music, terrifying and beautiful at the same time. Used as film music in Kubrick's "2001". Excellent performance, fine recording.
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