In my series of composers who were Weird Dudes, Erik Satie represents the eccentrics.
His stylized dress, his unusual diet and medical needs, his distrust of technology (although I don't blame him here), his self-imposed living conditions, his mismanaged money (although he is not alone there) , and his disowning of friendships all surrounded the French composer.
His music could be just as curious as Satie's personality, especially his entries into ballet. Yet there is also a simplicity, particularly in his solo piano music, a genre which fills much of his oeuvre.
While he wanted to move away from Impressionism, Satie's music is definitely French sounding. His Trois Gymnopédies must be his most famous pieces, which I will post a video below for listening.
I must admit I cannot listen to much of Satie's music in one sitting. Some of it is audacious, while others are as delicate and scented as garden flora.
I have listened to much of his piano music, but with such compositional volume in that genre, I have not put to reviewing any as of yet. The orchestral music is worthy of hearing, but I don't think they are among his finest of compositions.
Recordings and reviews currently on hand (Click below to visit):
1999: Orchestral Music (Kaltenbach)
2005: Orchestral Works (Abravanel 1968)