Toru Takemitsu
Visions
Denon (Japan) 1993
COJO-9094 (LP) Master Sonic Series. w/insert.
sleeve : EX+(slightly wear on corner)
media : EX+/EX+(some slightly noise)
A 1993 album featuring four compositions by Toru Takemitsu, one of Japan’s most celebrated master composers. Recorded in 1991 at Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, performed by the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra under the conduct of Hiroshi Wakasugi. Side A includes two classic works from Takemitsu’s earlier period: the 1957 masterpiece “Requiem for Strings,” and “November Steps,” a landmark piece bringing together orchestra with traditional Japanese instruments, performed here by Kinshi Tsuruta on biwa and Katsuya Yokoyama on shakuhachi, both closely associated with the work since its premiere. Side B focuses on two pieces from Takemitsu’s 1980s output. “Far Calls. Coming, Far!” from 1980, featuring violinist Yuzuko Horigome, is very fine, but the real highlight here is “Visions,” a superb two-movement work titled “Mystère” and “Les yeux clos,” full of luminous orchestral color and clearly touched by the language and orchestration of Debussy and Messiaen. Released in 1993, when the CD era was already in full swing, this is a precious analog pressing made with a level of craft that speaks to a deep dedication to the vinyl format. A highly recommended copy.
B1: Far Calls, Comming, Far!
B2: Visions - Mystere