Gerald Barry - Things That Gain

Review by Anggraeni Tanjung

Gerald Barry's album Things That Gain is a bold and daring work that showcases the composer's unique vision and uncompromising approach to music. From the opening track, "Chevaux-de-frise," with its dissonant chords and driving rhythms, to the hauntingly beautiful "The Eternal Feminine," this album is a tour de force of avant-garde composition.

Barry's use of unconventional instrumentation, such as the toy piano in "Piano Quartet No. 1," and his willingness to experiment with form and structure, as seen in the chaotic "Octet," make for a challenging but rewarding listening experience. The album's centerpiece, the 20-minute-long "Viola Concerto," is a masterful work that showcases Barry's skill at creating complex and intricate textures.

Summary by Anggraeni Tanjung

Despite its sometimes challenging nature, Things That Gain is a deeply rewarding album that rewards repeated listens. Fans of experimental music and contemporary classical will find much to admire here, and Barry's uncompromising vision is sure to inspire and challenge listeners for years to come.