Toshio Hosokawa's "メモリー/細川 俊夫 作品集 音宇宙X" is a captivating collection of experimental music that showcases the evolution of Hosokawa's work over a span of 25 years. Released in 2007 under the Fontec label, this album is the tenth installment in Hosokawa's renowned "音宇宙" series, marking a significant milestone in his career. The album features eight tracks, each a testament to Hosokawa's innovative compositional style, with a total runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes.
This album is a comprehensive retrospective of Hosokawa's chamber music, featuring works composed between 1980 and 2004. Each piece is performed by the esteemed contemporary music ensemble, NMS, whom Hosokawa trusts deeply. The ensemble's precise and nuanced performances bring Hosokawa's intricate compositions to life, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.
Highlights include 「歌う庭」, a piece for six players composed in 2003, and 「メモリー -尹伊桑の追憶に-」, a hauntingly beautiful work for violin, cello, and piano from 1996. The album also features 「ピエール・ブーレーズのための俳句 -75歳の誕生日に-」, a piano piece dedicated to the renowned composer Pierre Boulez on his 75th birthday.
Hosokawa's music is known for its meditative quality, often evoking a sense of tranquility and introspection. This album is no exception, offering a serene and contemplative journey through the mind of one of Japan's most celebrated contemporary composers. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hosokawa's work or a newcomer to his music, "メモリー/細川 俊夫 作品集 音宇宙X" is sure to captivate and inspire.