Switched-On Bach
Wendy Carlos · 1968
40 min · 12 tracks · electronic
A groundbreaking fusion of classical composition and electronic soundscapes, reimagining Bach for the synthesizer age.
Why this album works
'Switched-On Bach' is notable for popularizing the Moog synthesizer and reaching No. 10 on the Billboard charts, making it one of the first classical albums to achieve significant commercial success. Its innovative approach garnered critical acclaim and laid the groundwork for the electronic music genre, influencing artists across multiple genres.
- Best for
- dynamic exploration wave-like pacing for reflection headphone detail hunting
- Context
- Released in 1968, 'Switched-On Bach' was Wendy Carlos's debut album that introduced the Moog synthesizer to mainstream audiences. At this point, Carlos was transitioning from her academic background in music composition to a pioneering role in electronic music, which would define her career trajectory and influence future generations of musicians.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Paul Kalkbrenner· Isao Tomita· Moby
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Sinfonia to Cantata No. 29 3:27
- 2 Air on the G String Standout 2:33
- 3 Two-Part Invention in F major 0:43
- 4 Two-Part Invention in B-flat major 1:30
- 5 Two-Part Invention in D minor 0:52
- 6 Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring Standout 2:59
- 7 Prelude and Fugue No. 7 (from Well-Tempered Clavier, book I) 7:11
- 8 Prelude and Fugue No. 2 (from Well-Tempered Clavier, book I) 2:47
- 9 Chorale Prelude "Wachet Auf" 3:38
- 10 Brandenburg Concerto No. 3: I. Allegro Standout 6:29
- 11 Brandenburg Concerto No. 3: II. Andante 2:51
- 12 Brandenburg Concerto No. 3: III. Allegro 5:09
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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