Remixes are nothing new. Of course, neither is classical music…that’s why it’s classical! But now, some prominent composers are choosing to remix classical music! If you’re musically savvy at all, you’ll know that a remix involves tripping a piece to it’s bare elements and restructuring it. Is there a better place to start than with the minimalist compositions of Philip Glass? NPR is currently streaming Beck’s remix of NYC: 73-78. On October 8th, 2012 the plan is to stream an entire record of remixes of Philip Glass pieces, titled Rework: Philip Glass Remixed. Intrigued by the concept, I sampled NYC: 73-78. Though I do not have a classical background, I can say that the piece is enjoyable and I’m curious to hear the more electronically minded musical pioneers do with Glass’ work. NPR’s description of Beck’s remix is pretty accurate:
Beck turned the many clips into a gorgeous, trance-inducing meditation on Glass’ nearly half-century of work as a pioneering avant-garde composer [source].
Keep it locked on NPR for a stream of the album! In the meantime, check out this sweet remix from a much lower profile release:
Then contrast that with this:
