Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of choral music with Ensemble Le Madrigal's captivating album, "Messiaen: Cinq rechants - Daniel-Lesur: Le Cantique des Cantiques." Released on January 1, 1961, under the BNF Collection label, this album is a testament to the ensemble's exquisite vocal prowess and the timeless beauty of the compositions by Olivier Messiaen and Daniel-Lesur.
The album opens with Messiaen's "Cinq rechants," a series of five hauntingly beautiful songs that showcase the ensemble's ability to convey deep emotion and intricate musicality. Each piece, from the mystical "Hayo kapritama" to the tender "Mayoma kalimolimo," is a journey through sound and spirit.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Daniel-Lesur's "Le Cantique des Cantiques," a profound and moving setting of the Song of Songs. Ensemble Le Madrigal brings to life the dialogue between the lovers, the dreamy "Le songe," and the majestic "Le roi Salomon," culminating in the celebratory "Épithalame."
With a total runtime of 37 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of sacred and romantic themes, performed with the precision and passion that Ensemble Le Madrigal is known for. Whether you're a seasoned choral music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.