Nicolas Krüger, a Belgian pianist who studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London and now resides in France, presents "And Love Said..." a captivating album that beautifully showcases his artistry and versatility. This 25-track collection, released on Alpha Classics, spans a little over an hour and features a diverse range of songs that reflect Krüger's personal journey and musical evolution.
The album is a testament to Krüger's exquisite piano skills and his ability to bring out the nuances in each piece. He is joined by the enchanting soprano Jodie Devos, whose voice adds a layer of depth and elegance to the performances. Together, they navigate through a variety of compositions, from the romantic and introspective to the lively and engaging.
"And Love Said..." includes works by notable composers such as Vaughan Williams, Gurney, and Britten, among others. The album opens with "Come to Me in My Dreams" and closes with "You Take My Breath Away," framing a journey through love, longing, and reflection. Highlights include the delicate "Reeds of Innocence," the philosophical "Love's Philosophy," and the evocative "On This Island" cycle, which showcases the duo's interpretative prowess.
The album is not just a collection of songs but a carefully curated selection that tells a story. Each track is a chapter, and each performance is a conversation between Krüger and Devos, making "And Love Said..." an album that resonates long after the last note fades. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate beautiful music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2020 Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France2020 Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France
Tracks
Come to Me in My Dreams, H. 71Frank Bridge, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Love Went A-Riding, H. 114Frank Bridge, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Reeds of InnocenceIrene Poldowski, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Songs of Travel: Let Beauty AwakeRalph Vaughan Williams, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Love's PhilosophyRoger Quilter, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Five Elizabethan Songs: I. OrpheusIvor Gurney, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Five Elizabethan Songs: II. TearsIvor Gurney, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Five Elizabethan Songs: III. Under the Greenwood TreeIvor Gurney, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Five Elizabethan Songs: IV. SleepIvor Gurney, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Five Elizabethan Songs: V. SpringIvor Gurney, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
To LoveIrene Poldowski, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
On This Island, Op. 11: I. Let the Florid Music PraiseBenjamin Britten, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
On This Island, Op. 11: II. Now the Leaves Are Falling FastBenjamin Britten, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
On This Island, Op. 11: III. SeascapeBenjamin Britten, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
On This Island, Op. 11: IV. NocturneBenjamin Britten, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
On This Island, Op. 11: V. As It Is, PlentyBenjamin Britten, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Two Love Songs, Op. 30: Love My Heart Longs Day and NightDarius Milhaud, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Two Poems by Oscar Wilde: My VoicePatrick Leterme, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Two Poems by Oscar Wilde: Her VoicePatrick Leterme, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Two Love Songs, Op. 30: Peace, My HeartDarius Milhaud, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Three Songs from "Façade": I. DaphneWilliam Walton, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Three Songs from "Façade": II. Throufg Gilded TrellisesWilliam Walton, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Three Songs from "Façade": III. Old Sir FaulkWilliam Walton, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
Tu mi chamasGermaine Tailleferre, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger
You Take My Breath AwayFreddie Mercury, Jodie Devos, Nicolas Krüger