8 Lust Songs: I Sonetti Lussuriosi

"8 Lust Songs: I Sonetti Lussuriosi" is a captivating exploration of minimalism and classical music, presented by the renowned composer Michael Nyman. Released under his own label, Michael Nyman Records, this album is a testament to Nyman's unique style and his ability to push the boundaries of contemporary classical music. Recorded and mixed in iconic London studios, the album features the Michael Nyman Band and the enchanting vocals of Marie Angel, creating a rich and textured soundscape.

The album comprises eight tracks, each a setting of a sonnet from Giovanni Domenico Boccaccio's "I Sonetti Lussuriosi," a collection of explicit and provocative poems. The songs are performed in Italian, adding an air of mystique and intrigue. Despite the explicit content, the album comes with a Parental Advisory warning, ensuring that the explicit nature of the lyrics is clear to all potential listeners. With a runtime of just 45 minutes, "8 Lust Songs: I Sonetti Lussuriosi" is a concise yet powerful collection that showcases Michael Nyman's distinctive compositional voice and his ability to blend minimalism with classical sensibilities. The album was released on June 2, 2008, and features a unique blend of post-minimalism and art song, making it a standout release in Nyman's extensive discography.

Michael Nyman is a renowned English composer, pianist, and musicologist celebrated for his innovative and prolific output across various genres. Born in London, Nyman is best known for his distinctive film scores, notably the multi-platinum soundtrack to Jane Campion's "The Piano," which blends classical elements with the energy of rock and minimalism. His compositions often combine Western classical music with a high-octane, propulsive style, earning him a reputation as one of the UK's most celebrated contemporary composers. Beyond film, Nyman has written numerous operas, concerti, string quartets, and chamber works, many of which are performed by his own Michael Nyman Band. His restless creativity extends to conducting, writing, photography, and film-making, making him a versatile and influential figure in the music world. Nyman's unique approach to composition, often described as "pump-action Purcell," continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.