by Ben Hogwood

While it seems a bit strange to label a piece with frenetic keyboard activity as ‘ambient’, this early Philip Glass piece qualifies for that label by its static harmonies and shimmering profile. The effect is rather like looking at fast moving ripples on a pool, which change ever so gradually over time.

Contrary Motion dates from 1969, an early Glass piece that is typically lean and functional – but which adds up to something rather mesmeric. As do the other pieces on this excellent album from Steffen Schleiermacher!

Published post no.2,990 – Saturday 22 August 2026