Immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful world of Franz Liszt's Macabre compositions with this captivating album, performed exquisitely by Nathanael Gouin on piano. Released on October 13, 2017, under the Mirare label, this collection brings together some of Liszt's most profound and dramatic works, each piece a testament to the composer's genius and emotional depth.
The album opens with the fiery "Mephisto Waltz No. 2," a piece that showcases Liszt's virtuosic style and intricate compositional techniques. Following this, the haunting "Pensée Des Morts" from "Harmonies poétiques et religieuses" offers a moment of quiet reflection, while "Totentanz" (Dance of the Dead) delivers a powerful and intense performance that will leave you breathless.
Other highlights include the somber and moving "Funérailles," a piece originally written in memory of the Polish composer Frédéric Chopin, and the lively "Csárdás Macabre," which blends Hungarian folk elements with Liszt's signature dramatic flair. The album concludes with a poignant arrangement of the second movement from Liszt's "A Faust Symphony," titled "Gretchen."
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Liszt's Macabre works, offering a rich and varied listening experience. The accompanying booklet features insightful liner notes by Mark Viner, Chairman of the English Liszt Society, providing valuable context and background information on each piece.
Whether you're a longtime fan of classical piano music or a newcomer to Liszt's works, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The meticulous performance by Nathanael Gouin brings out the full depth and nuance of Liszt's compositions, making this a standout release in the world of classical music.
