Wim Mertens - Struggle For Pleasure - 20th Century Classical - 180Grm LP

Wim Mertens - Struggle For Pleasure

Label: Music On Vinyl – MOVCL001
Format: Vinyl, LP, Remastered, 180 Gram
Country: Europe
Released: 30 Nov 2013
Genre: Classical
Style: Modern Classical, Minimal
Notes: 2013 Audiophile remaster. Composed April & October 1982 in the South of France.


Tracklist:

A1 Tourtour 2:27
A2 Struggle For Pleasure 3:52
A3 Salernes 2:57


B1 Close Cover 3:08
B2 Bresque 2:31
B3 Gentleman Of Leisure 4:34


Credits:

Producer – Wim Mertens
Recorded By – Marc François
Written-By – Wim Mertens

Barcode and Other Identifiers

Barcode: 8718469533978


There are only six relatively short tracks on this mini-album, which catapulted composer Wim Mertens from nowhere to near-stardom in his native Belgium and other European countries. Steve Reich is an obvious influence (both in terms of minimalism and love for unusual instrumentations --- in fact, I mistook some parts for synthesizers when I first heard the album!), but more melodic and less repetitive in character. The haunting instrumental ballad "Close Cover" was the jingle for Belgian national radio's late-night programme for years (when I lived there). My favorite is the title track, which builds up layer by layer, in "chaconne" fashion, over a catchy arpeggiated piano pattern to reach a thunderous climax. Tracks 3 and 6 are likewise classics in their genre. If you want to surprise a discriminating (but open-minded) listener with an unexpected musical delight, this is the album.

The combination of acoustic piano and "experimental" instrumentation establishes a mood perfect for relaxing at home or a drive in the countryside. It isn't for everyone, but for those who like the type of instrumental/acoustic/electronic collaborations by artists such as Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois or Tangerine Dream, this is a must-have.


Wim Mertens - Close Cover

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Wim Mertens - Struggle for Pleasure

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Wim Mertens - Tourtour

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Wim Mertens - Gentleman Of Leisure

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