Osvaldo Golijov: Oceana

Derivative pastiche

Golijov is all the rage nowadays. Hailed by the New Yorker and the New York Times as the next big thing in classical music, he has all the right credentials to appeal to our politically-correct aesthetic. He's Argentinian, Jewish and American all at the same time. We love the idea of mixed cultural influences, I suppose because it satisfies our liberal longing for a world where everyone gets along just fine.
I have enjoyed other Golijov productions, although I doubt his ultimate talent. He's not up there with the greats. In this collection, I realized that he is a superb collector of other peoples' themes and inspirations -- rather than a bone fide creator of his own. There is one movement, superbly sung by Dawn Upshaw, where the setting is just lovely. That's where Golijov excels. But the theme is somebody else's.
The first movement with choir and guitars was just tedious. The string quartet section was better but I'd heard it before, or something remarkably similar, on many other Kronos Quartet recordings.
If Golijov is really a composer rather than an arranger, I'd like to see him compose. July 28, 2008

Anyone notice the cover image?

If you're curious, the cover image for this DG release is recycled from Bill Evans and Jim Hall's 1962 'Undercurrent' album. June 24, 2008

The songs are the key.

I was very curious about this cd and almost picked it up in a store. I decided to check it out online (where I purchased it after streaming a bit) instead. The main offering ('Oceana') was immediately forgettable. It had some interesting sounds but nothing that sticks with you. I still sometimes will play it as something to have on, as some of the rhythms are fun. The main piece is followed up with Kronos Quartet playing a two movement quartet entitled 'Tenebrae'. Initially I was really drawn to this piece. I still like it very much. Its slow and sombre. Not for every mood, but skillfully played and recorded. The three songs, as sung by Dawn Upshaw, are what really shine here. Especially the third one.

In closing I would recomend this cd, so long as you understand it is a mixed offering. February 28, 2008

Gorgeous Embracing Experience

This is a gorgeous experience, musically, poetically. There is the presence of a great artist -- working with exceptional vocal and instrumental artists and deriving word/image focus from passionate tender rough vibrant poetry and song - that embraced me in a transcendent yet life affirming experience. The roots and yearnings of a people in their culture, their land, their oceans, their traditions, their generations, made personal - speak through. The fine abstract elements create a new universe in which to experience what is essential, unalloyed, rich. I am with this body of work as if it were a great living love in my life. In truth, it is.
Osvaldo Golijov: Oceana January 18, 2008

Golijov continues to impress

Osvaldo Golijov is a terrific composer, bringing exciting new sounds and influences to concert music. If you've not experienced his music, it's an eclectic delight, with primary influences ranging from Argentina, Jewish tradition, and western classical music (with occasional digital elements for good measure). This is substantial, imaginative, superbly crafted music that also manages to be a very accessible and enjoyable.

The performances are first rate, Bob Spano is very gifted conductor and all of the performers are outstanding. Highly recommended for those looking for some fun, adventure, and real stimulation in their listening experiences! January 7, 2008

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