Icarus (Paul Winter Consort album)

Icarus is a studio album by the Paul Winter Consort, released in 1972 on Epic Records. It is widely considered one of the Consort's most influential and successful albums. The album is notable for its blend of jazz, classical, and world music influences, and its use of unconventional instruments and recording techniques.

The album's centerpiece is the title track, "Icarus," a piece that musically interprets the Greek myth of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun with wings made of wax and feathers. The piece features soaring melodies and dynamic arrangements that evoke the flight and eventual fall of Icarus.

Beyond the title track, Icarus showcases a variety of instrumental pieces, many of which are inspired by nature and different cultures. The album includes pieces such as "Ocean Child," "Whole Earth Chant," and "Minuit." The album features collaborations with various guest musicians, enhancing the diverse soundscape.

Icarus was innovative for its time in its use of ecologically-conscious themes and its attempt to create a holistic listening experience. It's often cited as a key example of the New Age music movement, though Winter himself resisted that label. The album's influence can be heard in subsequent generations of musicians who explore the intersection of music, nature, and spirituality. The album continues to be reissued and appreciated for its artistic merit and enduring appeal.