An Introduction To The Kronos Quartet?
 

Although I had known of them before Requiem For A Dream, the film and its soundtrack further introduced me to The Kronos Quartet.

I was wondering what essential Kronos discs you would recommend as an introduction to the band (in other words, not all of their discs nor the 10cd Box Set).

I had been thinking on:

Kronos Quartet (the selection disc)
and
The Kronos Quartet play Phillip Glass

Was wondering if any fans of the group here had any other, if not better, suggestions.

Thanks.

I'd recommend Kronos Quartet: Released 1985-95 (WEA 79394); this 2-CD set also includes a terrific arrangement for string quartet of Hendrix' "Purple Haze."

I still really enjoy Nuevo, which is heavily influenced by Latino and Flamengo music.

If you really want there is a 10 disc set they put about 3 years ago....

Pieces of Africa (I think that's the title) is amazing...

If you want something odd, try Tan Dun's Ghost Opera... okay, you'd be pretty strange to like it (like me! :)). Being an Elliot Goldenthal fan, the Heat soundtrack features a couple of Kronos tracks, the title track is incredible! But, there isn't enough to justify buying it for a KQ fan...just so you know it's out there! (Of course, you might like to watch the film instead.)

I think "Black Angels" is the seminal CD within their catalogue. It captures a wide range of emotion and musical styles and really introduces you to their personal styles. I was fortunate enough to see them perform the title piece live in college and it was amazing.

<b>NIGHT PRAYERS</b> was one of their most succesful CDs, and you might also want to check out their recording of the Gorecki String Quartet.
Definitely check out their recording of the Philip Glass score for the original (Bela Lugosi) <b>DRACULA</b> which is an alternate track on the Universal DVD release.