GLASS: “MISHIMA.” Kronos Quartet; orchestra conducted by...

GLASS: “MISHIMA.” Kronos Quartet; orchestra conducted by Michael Riesman. Nonesuch 9-79113-1 (digital). The master of minimalism meets the late and controversial novelist in these 14 cuts composed for Paul Schrader’s recent film biography; neither on disc nor on celluloid does the music approach the compelling status of Glass’ score for the earlier “Koyaanisqatsi.” Instead of the ostinato-laden rigor he usually favors, Glass inclines here to quasi-Oriental textures and soaring if disconnected thematic statements that might have brought a blush to Max Steiner. The Kronos does its part with its customary fervor, but the whole package resembles nothing so much as Muzak for a hip Japanese teahouse.