Product reviewsPhilip Glass - Hydrogen Jukebox (1995)

This is how I see it...

As far as I know this is the only version of this piece on release (Electra/Nonsuch). The score is by Philip Glass, and Alan Ginsberg provides the libretto. Six musicians (plus Glass on piano), a 7 piece vocal ensemble, and Ginsberg narrating bring to the listener 15 intense pieces of intimate soul food. Ginsberg invokes traditional themes of love, war, death, and the search for peace through politics and contemplation, from his old and new writings. His images move the listener to shudder with recognition, retrospection and passion. Glass stirs us with a full range of pummelling moods, landscapes, and frames to accompany Ginsberg's poety and songs.

The CD comes with full libretto and notes giving the perspectives of Ginsberg and Glass about the origins and composition of the pieces. The music was first premiered in 1990 and recorded 1992-3.

Ten years after the release of this remarkable collaboration this album remains fresh and relevant, and is likely to retain its standing for another 10 years and further. If you are unsure about either artist, this album will captivate and enthrall some of the solitary moments in your listening life. My other copy is with someone else.Read full review...