Immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful world of dark cabaret with Lotte Lenya's "Lotte Lenya sings Berlin Theater." This captivating album, released on January 1, 2012, under the Café Berlin label, is a testament to Lenya's enduring legacy as a powerhouse performer. Spanning just 44 minutes, this collection of tracks offers a rich tapestry of songs from various stage works, showcasing Lenya's distinctive voice and the genre's signature blend of wit, melancholy, and drama.
The album opens with "Mack The Knife" from "Die Dreigroschenoper," a classic that exemplifies Lenya's ability to command attention with her sultry, smoky vocals. Other highlights include the haunting "Pirate Jenny" and the sultry "Barbara Song," both from the same opera, which demonstrate Lenya's range and depth. The album also features tracks from "Aufstieg und Fall der Stadt Mahagonny," including the iconic "Alabama Song," and selections from "Happy End," such as the evocative "Bilbao Song" and the seductive "Surabaya Johnny."
Lenya's interpretation of these songs is both intimate and powerful, drawing the audience in with her expressive delivery and nuanced performances. The album's dark cabaret genre is characterized by its blend of cabaret, jazz, and classical elements, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Lotte Lenya's renditions of these timeless pieces are a testament to her artistry and the enduring appeal of dark cabaret.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Lotte Lenya or a newcomer to the genre, "Lotte Lenya sings Berlin Theater" is an essential addition to your music library. This album is a celebration of Lenya's remarkable talent and a captivating exploration of the dark cabaret genre.