Ensemble SYD, a pioneering force in the avant-garde music scene, presents their latest offering, "Qualities of Darkness," a captivating exploration of Baroque and contemporary musical landscapes. Released on May 26, 2023, under the Swedish Society label, this album is a testament to the ensemble's innovative spirit and technical prowess.
"Qualities of Darkness" is a 55-minute journey through a diverse range of compositions, beginning with Handel's Concerto grosso in B-Flat Major, Op. 6 No. 7, HWV 325. Ensemble SYD breathes new life into this Baroque masterpiece, showcasing their ability to reinterpret classical works with a fresh, contemporary perspective. The album then delves into the titular "Qualities of Darkness," a four-movement suite that explores themes of darkness and divine mystery, culminating in a powerful rendition of Handel's Dixit Dominus, HWV 232.
Throughout the album, Ensemble SYD demonstrates a remarkable ability to blend historical and modern musical elements, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative. Their precise, expressive performances highlight the intricate details of each composition, making "Qualities of Darkness" a compelling listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the avant-garde.
Tracks
Concerto grosso in B-Flat Major, Op. 6 No. 7, HWV 325: I. LargoGeorge Frideric Handel, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Concerto grosso in B-Flat Major, Op. 6 No. 7, HWV 325: II. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Concerto grosso in B-Flat Major, Op. 6 No. 7, HWV 325: III. Largo e pianoGeorge Frideric Handel, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Concerto grosso in B-Flat Major, Op. 6 No. 7, HWV 325: IV. AndanteGeorge Frideric Handel, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Concerto grosso in B-Flat Major, Op. 6 No. 7, HWV 325: V. HornpipeGeorge Frideric Handel, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Qualities of Darkness: No. 1, For BeholdStaffan Storm, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Qualities of Darkness: No. 2, How Dark, O Lord, Are Thy Decrees!Staffan Storm, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Qualities of Darkness: No. 3, He Sent a Thick DarknessStaffan Storm, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Qualities of Darkness: No. 4, Total Eclipse!Staffan Storm, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 1, Dixit DominusGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 2, Virgam virtutis tuæGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 3, Tecum principiumGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 4, Juravit DominusGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 5, Tu es sacerdosGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 6, Dominus a dextris tuisGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 7, De torrente in viaGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Dixit Dominus, HWV 232: No. 8, Gloria PatriGeorge Frideric Handel, Ensemble SYD, Camerata Nordica, Daniel Hansson
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
Looking for "Qualities of Darkness" on vinyl?
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.