M.i.n.i.m.a.l....

So trotted on down last weekend to the new Minimal Festival in Glasgow. This was the first weekend of a three year project bringing sound landscapes to Glasgow. With several concerts on throughout the weekend, I started off Friday night with Icebreaker's interpretation of Brian Eno's Apollo album brought to us in the fantastic backdrop of Glasgow's Old Fruitmarket venue.

We walked in to the hall with the sounds of an invisible orchestra playing (they were up on the balcony out of sight) and a room full of atmospheric fog. Eventually found a few seats together as this was one packed out show. Once settled the colourful Christmas lights dimmed down and the ensemble joined the stage. Three large screens lit up the stage with footage of the Apollo mission which absolutely made the performance.Especially the astronauts jumping about which looked animated.

Next day skipped back along to the Fruitmarket to catch the first of two performances. First one was Steve Reich's 'different trains', played by the Smith Quartet. Secondly, Philip Glass's 'Music with changing Parts'. This trance-like performance was amazing, close your eyes and it helped create your own visuals and took you away into your own wee world. Having seen Philip Glass himself in Glasgow many years ago it was great to hear one of his works played by a full ensemble of musicians.

After Friday nights treat, sadly both these performances lacked stimulating visuals - just shapes slightly merging. Think they lost a great opportunity there, but thankfully the music was so colourful you just had to use your own imagination.

The next installment of Minimal is in February, with Steve Reich's '18 musicans' played by the London Sinfonietta, should be interesting! For more info go to www.glasgowconcerthalls.com/minimal