Henrik Hellstenius presents a captivating blend of contemporary composition and classical reinterpretation with his album "Past & Presence," released on November 26, 2021, under Lawo Classics. The album is a testament to Hellstenius's versatility and depth as a composer, offering a unique listening experience that spans both original works and a fresh take on Robert Schumann's timeless "Dichterliebe."
The first half of the album is dominated by Hellstenius's own composition, "As If The Law Is Everything," a seven-part suite that explores themes of nature, existence, and the cosmos. Each movement is a journey in itself, from the introspective "I. The Law" to the ethereal "III. The Stars," culminating in the reflective "VII. Epilogue." The suite's second part, "IV. The Laws Of Nature" and "VI. The Laws Of Nature (second part)," is a two-part exploration of natural laws, showcasing Hellstenius's ability to translate complex ideas into evocative music.
The second half of the album features Hellstenius's interpretation of Schumann's "Dichterliebe," a song cycle based on the poems of Heinrich Heine. Hellstenius's rendition is a fresh perspective on the classic, with a focus on the raw emotion and poetic beauty of the original work. The selection includes some of the most beloved songs from the cycle, such as "I. Im wunderschönen Monat Mai" and "XIII. Ich hab' im Traum geweinet," as well as some lesser-known gems.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 2 minutes, "Past & Presence" is a substantial and rewarding listen. Hellstenius's compositions are characterized by their rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and evocative melodies, while his interpretations of Schumann's songs are marked by their sensitivity and depth of feeling. Whether you're a fan of contemporary classical music or a lover of the Romantic repertoire, "Past & Presence" is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
As If The Law Is Everything: I. The LawHenrik Hellstenius, Øyvind Rimbereid, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
As If The Law Is Everything: II. To BeHenrik Hellstenius, Øyvind Rimbereid, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
As If The Law Is Everything: III. The StarsHenrik Hellstenius, Øyvind Rimbereid, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
As If The Law Is Everything: IV. The Laws Of Nature (first part)Henrik Hellstenius, Øyvind Rimbereid, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
As If The Law Is Everything: V. She Who FellHenrik Hellstenius, Øyvind Rimbereid, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
As If The Law Is Everything: VI. The Laws Of Nature (second part)Henrik Hellstenius, Øyvind Rimbereid, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
As If The Law Is Everything: VII. EpilogueHenrik Hellstenius, Øyvind Rimbereid, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Still PanicHenrik Hellstenius, Diego Lucchesi, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: I. Im wunderschönen Monat MaiHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: II. Aus meinen Tränen spriessenHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: III. Die Rose, die Lilie, die Taube, die SonneHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: V. Ich will meine Seele tauchenHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: VIII. Und wüssten’s die Blumen, die kleinenHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: IX. Das ist ein Flöten und GeigenHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: X. Hör’ ich das Liedchen klingenHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Robert Schumann's Dichterliebe: XIII. Ich hab' im Traum geweinetHenrik Hellstenius, Robert Schumann, Heinrich Heine, Tora Augestad, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
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