"There are many works for films that are unknown from "Jack Johnson" (Miles Davis) to "L'Apocalypse Des Animaux" (Vangelis) but the albums themselves are essential. This is a long overdue reissue of two Terry Riley soundtrack gems. Terry Riley, unlilke other minimalist composers, rather than focusing on repeating forms, uses clearly jazz influenced analog organ and saxophone improvisations but unlike earlier works they are more focused (probably to fit the soundtrack) as well as extremely hypnotic and hallucinatory. Though without songs (except for one track with wordless vocals) this is up there with any psychedelic classics and might appeal to fans of prog rock as well (which it clearly influenced."
Welcome additions to the Riley catalog
Jeff Abell | Chicago, IL USA | 07/29/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"People who are only vaguely familiar with Terry Riley don't know that he has composed a number of film scores, particularly in France. "Les Yeux Fermés" by Joël Santoni has never been shown in the U.S., never been subtitled or dubbed, and therefore the 1972 score has not had much attention either. It's in a style similar to Riley's "Rainbow in Curved Air," and is a very enjoyable 36 minutes of music. Riley's music for "Lifespan," a 1974 film by Alexander Whitelaw, has had some exposure: Riley arranged the section called "G Song" for the Kronos Quartet. Cadenza on the Night Plain The other sections are unfamiliar, but show influences from India in the use of instruments, scales, and rhythmic structures. It's great to realize how many of Riley's musical influences were already present by the early '70s. While I wish that Elision Fields had provided a little more info with the CD, I heartily welcome these delectable tunes back into the airwaves."
In the Summer
a customer | earth | 11/01/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This was one of the first Terry Riley albums which I came across and it was a most perfect introduction to the man. In retrospect I would've sat myself down to hear IN C or PERSIAN SURGERY DERVISHES in one straight sitting but LES YEUX FERMES & LIFESPAN sealed the deal. As soon as I heard Terry's voice curling around on "In the Summer" I knew I'd found a good friend and companion. If you're not sure about Riley's music after hearing things like IN C and REED STREAMS, these songs might prove a pleasant change in pace for you. Of course, if you love Riley's music in general - and whatever he does seems to these ears wonder-filled - then you will no doubt enjoy it."
Riley Classic
Joe Lieberman | Pocantico NY | 05/13/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Kudos to Elision Fields for releasing these two works. Both classics...remastered with great care. Riley has a deep catalogue and I eagerly await more gems.
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1