Karayev: Seven Beauties Suite, Leyla and Mejnuin, Don Quixote & Lullaby from "The Path of Thunder"

Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Kara Karayev with this captivating album, released on October 1, 2017, under the prestigious Chandos label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this collection showcases Karayev's mastery of composition, blending classical elegance with cultural influences from around the globe.

The album opens with the expansive "Seven Beauties Suite," a five-part journey that paints vivid musical portraits inspired by the beauty and diversity of women from different cultures. Each movement offers a unique sonic experience, from the waltzing elegance of "The Indian Beauty" to the rhythmic intricacies of "The Chinese Beauty."

Following this suite, the album delves into the dramatic and poetic world of "Don Quixote," a seven-part orchestral work that brings Miguel de Cervantes' iconic characters to life through music. The suite ranges from the adventurous "Travels" to the poignant "Don Quixote's Death," showcasing Karayev's ability to convey deep emotion and narrative through orchestration.

The album concludes with two stand-alone pieces: the passionate and lyrical "Leyla and Mejnun," inspired by the classic Persian love story, and the gentle, soothing "Lullaby" from "The Path of Thunder." This final piece offers a serene and introspective close to the album, highlighting Karayev's versatility as a composer.

Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Kara Karayev's evocative compositions and the superb performances captured in this recording make it a standout addition to any music collection.