Three months prior, Nonesuch Records unveiled a fresh edition of its extensive collection dedicated too the works of Steve Reich. This 27-disc set features the inaugural recordings of Reich’s latest compositions, including Traveler’s Prayer and Jacob’s Ladder.For those who previously acquired the earlier version, these two pieces are now available as standalone releases. Both compositions were created during the Covid lockdown period and are arranged for four vocalists accompanied by an instrumental ensemble; notably, they incorporate Hebrew texts sourced from the Old Testament.
Despite both pieces being part of this new release, they exhibit distinct characteristics. traveler’s Prayer, which debuted in 2021, is contemplative and serene—almost ritualistic in nature. Listeners familiar with Reich’s signature rhythmic drive may find this piece quite different; he himself has likened it more to Josquin des Prez than to Stravinsky. The intertwining vocal lines for sopranos and tenors utilize canonic techniques extensively while maintaining a harmonic stability that lacks the tonal shifts typically found in much of Reich’s work.
In contrast, Jacob’s Ladder reintroduces listeners to Reich’s dynamic energy as it sets Genesis’ description of Jacob’s vision—a ladder reaching towards heaven—against vibrant string and woodwind motifs that create a lively backdrop filled with subtle dissonances adding depth to its texture. This exuberant composition radiates joyfulness; it’s astonishing to think it was crafted by someone approaching their ninetieth birthday next year.
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