Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative world of Hanns Eisler with "Eisler: The Hollywood Songbook." Released posthumously in 1998 by Decca Music Group Ltd., this album is a testament to Eisler's enduring legacy as a composer of immense depth and versatility. Comprising 40 tracks, the album spans a duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical expressions that reflect Eisler's experiences and observations during his time in Hollywood.
The Hollywood Songbook is a collection of songs and poems that Eisler composed during his exile in the United States, a period marked by both personal and political turmoil. The album is divided into several sections, each exploring different themes and emotions. From the introspective and melancholic "Der Sohn" series to the poignant war-themed pieces like "Gedenktafel für 4000 Soldaten" and "Panzerschlacht," Eisler's music captures the essence of human experience with remarkable sensitivity.
The album also features a series of elegies, including the "Fünf Elegien" and "Hölderlin-Fragmente," which showcase Eisler's ability to blend poetic lyricism with deep emotional resonance. His compositions are not only a reflection of his personal struggles but also a commentary on the broader social and political landscape of the time.
Hanns Eisler's work is known for its intellectual rigor and emotional depth, and "The Hollywood Songbook" is no exception. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Eisler's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling journey through the mind and heart of one of the 20th century's most significant composers.