A split album by Christopher Hobbs, John Adams, and Gavin Bryars, released in 1975 as the second title on Brian Eno‘s imprint Obscure. The album includes two pieces by Hobbs and one each by Adams and Bryars. Side A opens with the experimental compositions of Hobbs, followed by Adams’ spoken-word and orchestral work, while Side B concludes with Bryars’ dissonant, frontier-classical ambient piece, featuring contributions from Brian Eno and Derek Bailey. “Aran” and “McCrimmon Will Never Return” (1970-72) were composed for the Promenade Theatre Orchestra (PTO), a pioneering group led by White, Hobbs, Hugh Shrapnel and Alec Hill. The ensemble, originally featuring reed organs and toy pianos, later incorporated percussion to create a unique sound. “Aran” was crafted using random note sequences to introduce gentle unpredictability and resonant grit. This 12-performer version softens the original’s rawness.
“American Standard”, first performed in March 1973, was written for a flexible ensemble, here performed by the San Francisco Conservatory’s New Music Ensemble, led by John Adams. The piece features flute, clarinet, tuba, percussion, strings, and harp. Performance is adaptable, with parts distributed based on available instruments and group collaboration. The score allows for “extra materials” such as film, tape, and dance, and the piece is divided into three sections:
1. John Philip Sousa – Driven by a steady pulse, this section uses constant pitches, with a crisp snare drum roll adding dramatic flair beyond the score.
2. Christian Zeal and Activity – This serene, consonant piece uses long sustained notes in four parts, with occasional synchronization to form unified chords. “Extra material” includes a radio talk-show recording.
3. Sentimentals – Melodic and dynamic, this section quotes Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Lady,” with a laid-back swing from the trap set, adding a California vibe, resembling the Beach Boys’ sound.
“McCrimmon Will Never Return” is inspired by Piobaireachd, the complex form of Scottish bagpipe music. The piece features multiple variants of a melody played on reed organs, with a slow tempo that highlights the intricate skirls and flourishes, creating a haunting and ethereal atmosphere.
