Nyman's Masterpiece
Eric Wahl | Bozeman, MT, USA | 07/29/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Recorded a bit before Nyman, in my opinion, fell off the musical relevancy map with so many uninspired film scores, Noises, Sounds, & Sweet Airs (the correct title) may well have been this once-genius composer's last gasp. But what a last gasp! The disc works as a single piece of tightly-woven musical tapestry that cannot be divided up into individual "songs" or movements because it plays Nyman's musical fascinations and obsessions so close to the bone. Some staggeringly sublime moments whoosh and waft and soar from this recording, and as long as I have it to listen to regularly (and Nyman's scores from Greenaway's films) I need nothing else. One of the most exquisite recordings I have ever purchased. How I wish he'd get back to such stuff and forego the pornography of his art, such as it currently is, in so much movie dribble."
Stunning
K. Braithwaite | inkster, MI USA | 06/07/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Nyman's best, as well as most original and most challenging piece. I didn't like it the first few times I heard it, but after I found my way into the scorte (so to speak) I found it incredibly beautiful. Unlike anything you have ever heard. Minimalist but a very busy "maximal" minimalist."
Its good ... listen to it load
M. V. Wiles | mt desert, me United States | 05/21/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Yes it "film music" as though that is derogatory. Its Nyman and one knows and feels his familiar themes running through this music.
But the sounds, the dynamic range of styles, the use of multiple overlapping voices cascading through violins. The words (if not quite correct) of Shakespeare, their power reflected in the music. The changes of rhythm and themes swelling up...
i.e. its good, listen to it loud, let is fill your mind and awaken refreshed etc
"