Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Kurt Weill with the album "Weill: Speak Low," released on January 1, 1994, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon (DG) label. This opera masterpiece spans a rich duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, offering a profound exploration of human nature and societal themes.
The album opens with the original version of "Die sieben Todsünden" (The Seven Deadly Sins), a groundbreaking work that delves into the complexities of each sin through a series of vivid musical portrayals. From the languid "Sloth" to the fiery "Anger," and the seductive "Lust," Weill's composition masterfully captures the essence of each vice, culminating in a reflective epilogue.
Beyond "Die sieben Todsünden," the album showcases a diverse collection of Weill's works, including excerpts from "Lady in the Dark," "Happy End," and "One Touch of Venus." Each piece is a testament to Weill's versatility and innovative approach to opera, blending poignant storytelling with memorable melodies. Notable tracks like "My Ship," "Surabaya Johnny," and "Speak Low" highlight Weill's ability to craft timeless musical narratives that resonate with listeners.
"Speak Low" is not just an album; it's a journey through the creative genius of Kurt Weill, offering a rich tapestry of musical and lyrical brilliance. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching and memorable listening experience.
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): Prologue. Andante sostenuto "Meine Schwester"Kurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): I. Sloth. Allegro vivace "Müssiggang ist aller Laster"Kurt Weill, James Sims, Karl-Heinz Lampe, Christfried Biebrach, Frederick Martin, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): II. Pride. Allegretto, quasi Andantino "Als wir aber"Kurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, James Sims, Karl-Heinz Lampe, Christfried Biebrach, Frederick Martin, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): III. Anger. Molto agitato "Das geht nicht vorwärts"Kurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, James Sims, Karl-Heinz Lampe, Christfried Biebrach, Frederick Martin, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): IV. Gluttony. Largo "Das ist ein Brief aus Philadelphia"Kurt Weill, James Sims, Karl-Heinz Lampe, Christfried Biebrach, Frederick Martin, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): V. Lust. Moderato "Und wir fanden einen Mann in Boston"Kurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, James Sims, Karl-Heinz Lampe, Christfried Biebrach, Frederick Martin, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): VI. Avarice. Allegro giusto "Wie hier in der Zeitung"Kurt Weill, James Sims, Karl-Heinz Lampe, Christfried Biebrach, Frederick Martin, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): VII. Envy. Allegro non troppo "Und die letzte Stadt"Kurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, James Sims, Karl-Heinz Lampe, Christfried Biebrach, Frederick Martin, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Die sieben Todsünden (Original Version): Epilogue. Andante sostenuto "Darauf kehrten wir zurück nach Lousiana"Kurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Lady in the Dark: No. 3, My ShipKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Lady in the Dark: No. 1, One Life to LiveKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Buddy On The NightshiftKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, Bengt Forsberg
Nannas LiedKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, Bengt Forsberg
Happy End: I. Bilbao SongKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Happy End: X. Surabaya JohnnyKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Happy End: XI. Das Lied von der harten NussKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
Je ne t'aime pasKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, Bengt Forsberg
SchickelgruberKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, Bengt Forsberg
Der AbschiedsbriefKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, Bengt Forsberg
One Touch Of Venus: Foolish HeartKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
One Touch Of Venus: Speak LowKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner
One Touch of Venus: I'm a Stranger Here MyselfKurt Weill, Anne Sofie von Otter, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, John Eliot Gardiner