Mark Padmore's "Dowland: Lute Songs – Britten: Nocturnal" is a captivating exploration of Renaissance and modern classical music, released in 2008 on the Hyperion label. This choral and classical masterpiece spans 24 tracks, totaling 75 minutes of enchanting melodies and profound lyrics. The album is a harmonious blend of works by John Dowland and Benjamin Britten, featuring Padmore's exquisite tenor voice alongside the skilled accompaniment of Elizabeth Kenny on the lute and Craig Ogden on the guitar.
The album opens with Dowland's "Unquiet Thoughts," setting the stage for a journey through the composer's lute songs, known for their poetic depth and musical elegance. Padmore's tender and tonally lovely renditions bring a fresh perspective to these timeless pieces, making them accessible and enjoyable for both classical aficionados and newcomers alike.
Britten's "Nocturnal after John Dowland, Op. 70" is a highlight of the album, showcasing the composer's masterful use of themes and variations. The eight movements, ranging from "Musingly" to "Passacaglia," demonstrate Britten's virtuosity and his deep appreciation for Dowland's work.
Throughout the album, Padmore's voice shines, heralding an almost ethereal quality that complements the intricate lute and guitar accompaniments. The selections included here are not just songs but also a testament to the enduring power of these compositions, performed with skill and sensitivity.
"Dowland: Lute Songs – Britten: Nocturnal" is a stunning addition to any classical music collection, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's blend of historical and modern elements, combined with the exceptional performances, makes it a standout release in the genre.
Tracks
Unquiet ThoughtsJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Say, Love, If Ever Thou Didst FindJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Sorrow, Stay, Lend True Repentant TearsJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Away With These Self-Loving LadsJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Fantasia No. 7John Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny
Come Again, Sweet Love Doth Now InviteJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Sleep, Wayward ThoughtsJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny
Come, Heavy SleepJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: I. Musingly. MeditativoBenjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: II. Very Agitated. Molto agitatoBenjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: III. Restless. InquietoBenjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: IV. Uneasy. AnsiosoBenjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: V. March-Like. Quasi una marciaBenjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: VI. Dreaming. SognanteBenjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: VII. Gently Rocking. CullanteBenjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Nocturnal After John Dowland, Op. 70: VIII. Passacaglia. Measured (Misurato) – Slow and Quiet (Molto tranquillo)Benjamin Britten, Craig Ogden
Flow, My TearsJohn Dowland, Mark Padmore, Elizabeth Kenny
I Must ComplainJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
If My Complaints Could Passions MoveJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Lachrimae, or 7 Teares: XVIII. Captaine Digorie Piper His Galiard, P. 19John Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny
What If I Never Speed?John Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
To Ask for All Thy LoveJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
Now, Oh Now I Needs Must PartJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
In Darkness Let Me DwellJohn Dowland, Elizabeth Kenny, Mark Padmore
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