Henry Cowell is an amazing composer and a brilliant pianist. Famous for his cluster notes, and stroking the piano strings, he's to me the melodic John Cage. "The Piano Music of Henry Cowell" is the perfect introduction to his music and aesthetic. Oddly enough, "Aeolian Harp and Sinister Resonance" melody sound similar to The Yardbirds' "Still I'm Sad." The closest composer I can compare him to is Erik Satie. Both write strong melodies, but there is a genius aspect of what they both do. Cowell is more upbeat and mixes the ugliness of cluster with the harp-like strokes of the piano wires and the beautiful melodies. Throughout the album, Cowell announces each title of his composition as if he was lecturing in a classroom. There is also a talk by the composer at the end of the album. Essential!
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