Most of Philip Glass' listeners are well aware that he tends to work with conventional Western instruments. But in recent years Glass has expanded his reach with the result that this CD, AGUAS DE AMAZONA, may be his most infectious yet.
Uakti is a modern Brazilian ensemble that utilizes a wide variety of exotic instruments including glass marimbas, pan flutes and tablas. The result of the collaboration between Glass and Uakti--a collection of pieces commissioned by Uakti for a ballet--is a gorgeous mosaic of Brazilian music filtered through Glass' trademark sensibility. Although a minimalist version of Villa-Lobos comes to mind in many of these pieces, there is also often a Baroque-like feel. 'Maderia River' in particular, with its wispy reeds, is the standout for its ability to sound like a modern, folk counterpart to the Mystery Sonatas of Heinrich Biber.
The final piece, 'Metamorphosis I,' which was not part of the ballet commission, showcases Uakti1s ability to employ a wide and attractive variety of exotic sounds and textures. But Glass shines here as well as with his multilayered counterpoint, subtle rhythmic propulsiveness, and his ravishing, folk-inspired melodies.