What makes Switched-On Bach II by Wendy Carlos notable?

This album is significant for its role in popularizing the use of synthesizers in classical music, influencing both electronic and contemporary classical scenes. It received critical acclaim, contributing to the growing acceptance of electronic music and inspiring future generations of musicians to explore new soundscapes. By the time "Switched-On Bach II" was released in January 1973, Wendy Carlos had already established herself as a groundbreaking figure in electronic music, following the success of her debut album "Switched-On Bach" in 1968. This follow-up solidified her reputation as a visionary artist, showcasing her ability to bring classical music into the modern age through synthesizers.

Who is Switched-On Bach II for?

Switched-On Bach II works well if you're into dynamic reinterpretations, wave-like pacing for focus and short, engaging listening bursts.

How many songs are on Switched-On Bach II?

Switched-On Bach II has 13 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Switched-On Bach II

Wendy Carlos · 1973

40 min · 13 tracks · electronic

An innovative blend of classical motifs and pioneering electronic sounds that reimagines Bach's timeless compositions.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic reinterpretations
wave-like pacing for focus
short, engaging listening bursts
playful motifs throughout

Maybe skip if you want

prefer longer, cohesive pieces
seek straightforward rhythmic patterns

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time "Switched-On Bach II" was released in January 1973, Wendy Carlos had already established herself as a groundbreaking figure in electronic music, following the success of her debut album "Switched-On Bach" in 1968. This follow-up solidified her reputation as a visionary artist, showcasing her ability to bring classical music into the modern age through synthesizers.
Stylistic neighbors: Isao Tomita· Klaus Schulze· Jean-Michel Jarre

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Selections from Suite no. 2 in B minor, BWV 1067: Badinerie 1:27
2 Selections from Suite no. 2 in B minor, BWV 1067: Minuet 1:20
3 Selections from Suite no. 2 in B minor, BWV 1067: Bourrée 1:45
4 Two‐Part Invention in A minor, BWV 784 1:24
5 Two‐Part Invention in A major, BWV 783 1:13
6 Sheep May Safely Graze, from “Cantata no. 208”, BWV 208 5:10
7 Suite from Anna Magdalena Notebook: Musette in D major, Anh. 216 1:12
8 Suite from Anna Magdalena Notebook: Minuet in G major, Anh. 114 1:45
9 Suite from Anna Magdalena Notebook: Bist du bei mir, BWV 508 2:18
10 Suite from Anna Magdalena Notebook: Marche in D major, Anh. 122 1:07
11 Brandenburg Concerto no. 5 in D major, BWV 1050: Allegro 10:52
12 Brandenburg Concerto no. 5 in D major, BWV 1050: Affettuoso 5:35
13 Brandenburg Concerto no. 5 in D major, BWV 1050: Allegro 4:52

What to play next

Listen next

Switched-On Brandenburgs

1979

Go back to

A Clockwork Orange

1972

Full Wendy Carlos discography Artists like Wendy Carlos

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata