Dive into the captivating world of Kurt Weill with "Weill: Mack The Knife - Songs of Kurt Weill," a timeless collection of operatic masterpieces released on June 26, 2007, under the prestigious Naxos label. This album is a testament to Weill's enduring legacy, featuring a blend of iconic and lesser-known works that showcase his unique ability to merge classical and popular music styles.
Spanning a concise yet impactful 62 minutes, the album offers a rich tapestry of compositions from various stages of Weill's career. From the hauntingly beautiful "Die Moritat von Mackie Messer" (The Ballad of Mack the Knife) to the poignant "September Song" and the sultry "Speak Low," each track is a masterclass in storytelling and musical innovation. The album also includes notable works like "Alabama Song," "My Ship," and "Lost in the Stars," demonstrating Weill's versatility and depth as a composer.
Kurt Weill, a German-American composer known for his collaborations with playwright Bertolt Brecht, revolutionized the landscape of musical theater and opera. His works often explored social and political themes, blending traditional operatic forms with jazz, cabaret, and other contemporary influences. This album is a perfect introduction to Weill's oeuvre, offering a mix of his most celebrated pieces and hidden gems that highlight his genius.
Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Weill: Mack The Knife - Songs of Kurt Weill" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. The album's diverse repertoire ensures there's something for everyone, making it a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.
2007 Naxos2007 Naxos
Tracks
Die Dreigroschenoper (the Threepenny Opera): Die Moritat von Mackie Messer [the Ballad of Mack the Knife]Kurt Weill, Bertolt Brecht, Theo Mackeben Jazz Orchestra
Happy End: Bilbao SongKurt Weill, Lotte Lenya, Theo Mackeben Jazz Orchestra
Die Dreigroschenoper (the Threepenny Opera): Die Ballade von der UnzulanglichkeitKurt Weill, Bertolt Brecht, Theo Mackeben Jazz Orchestra
Aufstieg und Fall der Stadt Mahagonny: Alabama SongKurt Weill, Lotte Lenya, Three Admirals
Happy End: Surabaya JohnnyKurt Weill, Lotte Lenya
Aufstieg und Fall der Stadt Mahagonny: Wie man sich bettet (as You Make Your Bed)Kurt Weill, Lotte Lenya
Knickerbocker Holiday: September SongKurt Weill, Walter Huston, Victor Young, Maurice Abravanel
Lady in the Dark: My ShipKurt Weill, Gertrude Lawrence, Leonard Joy
Lady in the Dark: Tchaikovsky (and Other Russians)Kurt Weill, Danny Kaye, Studio Chorus, Maurice Abravanel
Lady in the Dark: The Saga of JennyKurt Weill, Gertrude Lawrence, Studio Chorus, Leonard Joy
Lost in the Stars: Lost in the StarsKurt Weill, Lotte Lenya
Lost in the Stars: Lover Man (Trouble Man)Kurt Weill, Lotte Lenya
One Touch of Venus: Speak LowKurt Weill
One Touch of Venus: Speak LowKurt Weill, Kenny Baker, Mary Martin, Maurice Abravanel
7 Stucke nach der Dreigroschenoper: No. 1, Moritat vom Mackie Messer (Arr. S. Frenkel)Kurt Weill, Jascha Heifetz, Emmanuel Bay
Street Scene: Moon-Faced, Starry-EyedKurt Weill, Johnny Mercer, Benny Goodman
Love Life: Here I'll StayKurt Weill, Buddy Clark, Mitchell Ayres Chorus, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra
Love Life: Green-Up TimeKurt Weill, Cy Walter, Greta Keller, Studio rhythm section
Die Dreigroschenoper: The Threepenny Opera (Die Dreigroschenoper): Pirate JennyKurt Weill, Lotte Lenya, Samuel Matlowsky
Die Dreigroschenoper: The Threepenny Opera (Die Dreigroschenoper): Mack the KnifeKurt Weill, Louis Armstrong