Bernhard Lang - Bernhard Lang: ParZeFool (LP)

Bernhard Lang's "ParZeFool" is a monumental, avant-garde exploration of Richard Wagner's "Parsifal," reimagined through Lang's distinctive contemporary classical lens. Released on August 1, 2019, under the KAIROS label, this sprawling 2 hour and 58 minute opus is a testament to Lang's innovative approach to composition and his deep engagement with the source material.

The album is structured in three acts, mirroring the original opera's narrative, and features a rich tapestry of vocal and instrumental performances. Lang's signature style, which often incorporates elements of minimalism, aleatoric music, and complex rhythmic structures, is evident throughout. The result is a work that is both deeply rooted in the Romantic tradition and strikingly modern.

"ParZeFool" is not just a retelling of Wagner's tale of the pure fool who becomes a redeemer, but a profound meditation on themes of compassion, guilt, and redemption. The album's title itself is a playful yet profound twist on the original, hinting at the ways in which Lang subverts and reinterprets the source material.

The tracklist is a journey through the narrative, with each song serving as a pivotal moment in the story. From the haunting "Vorspiel" that opens the album, to the climactic "Enthüllt den Gral!" that concludes the third act, Lang guides the audience through a complex and rewarding sonic landscape. The use of multiple languages, including German, French, and English, adds an additional layer of depth and richness to the listening experience.

Bernhard Lang's "ParZeFool" is a bold and ambitious work that showcases the composer's unique voice and his ability to engage with and reinterpret the classics in innovative ways. It is a must-listen for fans of avant-garde music and anyone interested in the intersection of tradition and innovation in contemporary classical music.