Classical Music Meets Classic Literature with Roger Rudenstein

American composer Roger Rudenstein is bringing his unique take on using music to express his thoughts on the wider world to a new audience with his musical re-telling of James Joyce’s classic novel, Ulysses.

Written by Irish novelist, Joyce, in 1918, Ulysses sees a day in the life of Leopold Bloom in early 20th Century Dublin, at first glance a relatively straight-forward concept but elevated to epic scale. Echoing this approach is Roger, using a full orchestra and singers to bring the tale to life for an audience who, although maybe not familiar with the text, can find a new way of exploring this world.

Using the original, undiluted text (complete with sometimes risque language!) and marrying the rhythm and cadence of the language with his very European influenced style, Roger is ready to bring music and literature bang up to date whilst still being respectful of the traditions of both artistic styles.

SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/rudenste/tracks
Youtube https://www.youtube.com/user/rudenste
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roger.rudenstein
Website https://www.rogerrudensteinmusic.com/

 

Angus & Julia Stone and their SNOW in the middle of summer.

This is not a drill! Snow alert! And yes, I am aware that we are just coming into August, it’s still summer but it’s true – it’s time for some SNOW. But don’t worry, there is no actual cold substance involved in this! It’s a name of a brand new single performed by Australian siblings  – Angus & Julia Stone.

Angus and Julia, born and raised on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, grew up around musical talent, their parents, who taught them music at home, used to have their own folk band.

 Both siblings play instruments and both are amazing song writers, they combined their incredible talents in  2006.Their success came quickly because of the magic of their music. The duo became famous worldwide, and many publishing companies and agencies showed interest in the brother-sister indie folk group.
So far, they’ve released three studio albums and won several ARIA Awards, including Album Of The Year.
Now, after a long break, they are coming back with a fresh album, also called Snow. The forthcoming album will be out later this year, on the 15th of September.
The leading single of the album is such a dreamy track but to be honest, it doesn’t have a lot to do with the actual snow apart from one line “ Blanket on my back, I’m cold, I’m cold again. Smile in the snow, tryna find something to say”. Well that… and if you fancy being out in the snow while you are listening to it, but I don’t think this can happen anytime soon!
The song seems to be about a relationship, or what is left of it. The ending is coming and the girl is wondering why the person won’t stay.
The duo’s harmony and the technique of delivering are superb, and their voices absolutely exquisite!
“Snow” makes you feel calm and you can almost imagine yourself facing the sun, wind in your hair and the slight curve of your smile…. Do yourself a favour and listen to this lovely song!
You can also find Angus & Julia here:
Let me know in the comment section if you’ve heard about this Aussie duo before, and how you like their song! Also, would you like to see a review of their album once it’s out? Share your thoughts!
Until next time! x