Gesualdo: O dolce mio tesoro. Madrigali a cinque voci, Libro sesto

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Renaissance polyphony with Carlo Gesualdo's "O dolce mio tesoro. Madrigali a cinque voci, Libro sesto," a stunning collection of madrigals from 1611, beautifully performed by Collegium Vocale Gent under the direction of Philippe Herreweghe. This album, released in 2016 by the esteemed label Phi, offers a rich and immersive experience of Gesualdo's unique musical language, characterized by its harmonic innovations and expressive depth.

Gesualdo, a prince of Venosa and a renowned composer of the late Renaissance, is celebrated for his madrigals, which often explore themes of love, loss, and longing with unparalleled intensity. This album features all 23 madrigals from his sixth book, showcasing the full range of his compositional genius. From the haunting beauty of "Se la mia morte brami" to the playful charm of "Ardita Zanzaretta," each piece is a testament to Gesualdo's mastery of the madrigal form.

The performance by Collegium Vocale Gent is nothing short of extraordinary. Under Herreweghe's expert guidance, the ensemble brings a sense of clarity, precision, and emotional resonance to Gesualdo's complex polyphony. The album's duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of Gesualdo's sixth book of madrigals, providing a deep dive into the composer's unique musical vision.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance music or a newcomer to the genre, "O dolce mio tesoro" is an essential addition to your collection. The album's meticulous production and the ensemble's impeccable performance make it a standout release in the world of classical music.