WILLIAM BOLCOM (b.1938): Complete Gospel Preludes for Organ.

Description: These very entertaining preludes draw on many influences: gospel, jazz, cabaret and more atonal idioms. One of Bolcom's favorite devices seems to be to begin a work in an atonal haze out of which the hymn tune gradually emerges only to disappear likewise later. Textures range from quasi-baroque to lushly romantic. Once a marching band suddenly seems to show up. Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child, dedicated to the recently-murdered Marvin Gaye, is quite angry. Others, like Sweet Hour of Prayer are, well, comfy and sweet. Whether you collect contemporary American music or just organ music, there's plenty to enjoy. Gregory Hand (Skinner organ of Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, University of Chicago).