There’s a widespread impression, largely justified, that little great classical music has been written in—oh, let’s just say quite some time. There have been notable exceptions, such as Gorecki’s Symphony of Sorrowful Songs, and some stuff by Arvo Part ain’t bad. I’m also quite fond of the collaboration between Lama Gyurme and Jean-Philippe Rykiel in “Rain of Blessings: Vajra Chants.“

Recently on a long drive I dug out Gavin Bryars’ “Jesus Blood Never Failed Me Yet.“ It’s a minimalist piece, but a haunting and ultimately profound one (though I’ll spare you the college-freshman interpretation that struck me recently). You have to be in the right frame of mind to listen to it. But it’s well worth the investment.

Be sure to read the liner notes (here). An exerpt:

Although the old man died before he could hear what I had done with his singing, the piece remains as a restrained testament to his spirit and optimism. The rhythm of his vocal line may be erratic and there is considerable irony in the relationship between what he is singing, and his circumstances at the time. But for me there is great poignancy in his voice and, though I do not share the simple optimism of his faith, I am still touched. . . .

Give it a listen sometime. If you’re lucky, it will change you.

What…no link to a Free MP3 file is provided? After reading the liner notes, I am curious to hear the old man’s (rough) singing layered over multi-tracked studio accompaniments. 

Jeez…now I gotta go and buy the MP3 file. I’ll let you know what I think if and when I can find the file.

Speaking of multi-tracking and dubbing, Bart: I’m sure you’ve heard old Queen songs from the 1970s. The ‘choir’ you hear is just Freddy Mercury multi-tracking his own voice—like 100 times over.

Lotta people don’t know that. They think its the whole band getting together, vocally.

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