Review by Daniel del Ben
Two years ago, Mike Patton (along with Brussels-based Ictus Ensemble) performed Luciano Berio’s 1965 composition, Laborintus II, at the Holland Festival. Next week, an album of that performance will be released.
Berio was known for avant-garde work and use of electronics in music, and many of his compositions were centered around a story. This performance is narrated by Patton who is accompanied by a choir and chamber orchestra. The piece itself is primarily vocals and strings. It’s reminiscent of Stravinsky or Varese.
Patton’s performance doesn’t differ to greatly from other versions that I’ve heard. Don’t buy this if you’re expecting a vast reworking, but if you’re unfamiliar with Berio or are just looking for variation, this is as fine a version as any.
Laborintus II will be released on July 10th via Ipecac Records.
