Perhaps I am not the best judge of this music's merit, since most of the other reviewers seem to love it and I just sold my copy for pocket change.  But I find the works of Philip Glass more engaging than either composition presented here.  Granted, Riley is my second-favorite among minimalist composers, but it is a distant second.  The pieces float along amicably enough, but overall I have trouble establishing a mood within the piece or identifying themes I can latch on to.  This is better-than-average modern classical music, but I recommend starting with a better-known composer if you are curious about this type of music.  Then move on to something like this CD.  Before I get a barrage of negative feedback saying I know nothing about music and have no right to criticize this piece, I will admit:  that is true.  I have no musical training, can't play any instruments, know no music theory, and can't read a note on paper.  I'm just interested in new movements in the arts, i.e. minimalism in music, and if you're like me and want to see what this movement is about, try Philip Glass first.  If you like getting your feet wet with him, go ahead and dive into this one--you'll enjoy it.
Perhaps I am not the best judge of this music's merit, since most of the other reviewers seem to love it and I just sold my copy for pocket change. But I find the works of Philip Glass more engaging than either composition presented here. Granted, Riley is my second-favorite among minimalist composers, but it is a distant second. The pieces float along amicably enough, but overall I have trouble establishing a mood within the piece or identifying themes I can latch on to. This is better-than-average modern classical music, but I recommend starting with a better-known composer if you are curious about this type of music. Then move on to something like this CD. Before I get a barrage of negative feedback saying I know nothing about music and have no right to criticize this piece, I will admit:  that is true. I have no musical training, can't play any instruments, know no music theory, and can't read a note on paper. I'm just interested in new movements in the arts, i. e. minimalism in music, and if you're like me and want to see what this movement is about, try Philip Glass first. If you like getting your feet wet with him, go ahead and dive into this one--you'll enjoy it.