Immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful world of Carlo Gesualdo, the enigmatic Italian Renaissance composer, with the album "Madrigals & Sacred Songs." Released on March 24, 2023, this collection offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a man whose life was as tumultuous as his music was groundbreaking. Gesualdo, known for his chromatic language that was ahead of its time, composed these pieces during a period of intense personal turmoil, resulting in a body of work that is both deeply moving and profoundly original.
The album spans 43 minutes and features 18 tracks, including madrigals from various books and sacred songs such as motets and responsories for Holy Saturday. Each piece is a testament to Gesualdo's unique style, blending intricate polyphony with bold harmonic shifts that were unprecedented in his era. The madrigals, with their expressive texts and emotional depth, showcase Gesualdo's ability to convey human passion and suffering, while the sacred songs offer a sense of spiritual contemplation and redemption.
Carlo Gesualdo's life story is as compelling as his music. A nobleman and composer, he was known for his tragic personal life, including the infamous murder of his first wife and her lover. This dark history adds a layer of intrigue to his music, making it all the more captivating for those who delve into his works. "Madrigals & Sacred Songs" is not just a collection of Renaissance music; it is a window into the soul of a complex and troubled genius.
Whether you are a seasoned fan of Renaissance music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Gesualdo's innovative use of chromaticism and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his compositions make "Madrigals & Sacred Songs" a standout release. Dive into the world of Carlo Gesualdo and discover the timeless beauty of his music.
2023 Vox2023 (P) Vox
Tracks
Book II, No. 18 'Non mai non cangerò'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book II, No. 20 'Non mi toglia'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book III , No. 7 'Dolce spirito d'amore'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book III, No. 8 'Sospirava il mio core'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book III, No. 9 'O mal nati messagi'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book III, No. 12 'Meraviglia d'amore!'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book III, No. 13 'Ed ardo e vivo'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book V, No. 2 'S'io non miro non moro'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book V, No. 21 'T'amo mia vita!'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book VI, No. 3 'Tu piangi, o filli mia'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book VI, No. 5 'Chiaro risplender suole'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book VI, No. 8 'O dolce mio tesoro'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book VI, No. 9 'Deh, com invan sospiro"Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Book VI, No. 15 'Ancide sol la morte'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Motet III 'Ave, dulcissima Maria'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Motet VIII 'Heu mihi, Domine'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Responsory for Holy Saturday, No. 5: 'O vos omnes'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann
Responsory for Holy Saturday, No. 8 'Æstimatus sum'Carlo Gesualdo, Capella Vocale Hamburg, Martin Behrmann