Dive into the rich and complex world of Hanns Eisler with "Eisler, Goebbels: Eislermaterial," a captivating album released on ECM New Series in 2002. This collection, curated by Heiner Goebbels, pays homage to the influential German composer Hanns Eisler, offering a unique blend of Eisler's original compositions and Goebbels' reinterpretations. Spanning a duration of over an hour, the album features 21 tracks that showcase Eisler's mastery of various musical forms, from orchestral pieces to lullabies and ballads.
The album opens with "Eislermaterial: Anmut sparet nicht noch Mühe," setting the tone for a journey through Eisler's diverse musical landscape. Highlights include "Eislermaterial: Vier Wiegenlieder für Arbeitermütter," a series of lullabies that reflect Eisler's commitment to social themes, and "Eislermaterial: Ballade vom zerrissenen Rock," a poignant ballad that showcases his storytelling prowess. The album also features instrumental pieces like "Eislermaterial: Andante (After Suite für Septett Nr. 1)" and "Eislermaterial: Kleine Passacaglia (After 5 Orchesterstücke)," demonstrating Eisler's skill in orchestration and composition.
"Eisler, Goebbels: Eislermaterial" is not just a collection of songs but a deep dive into the musical legacy of Hanns Eisler. Whether you're a fan of classical music, experimental compositions, or simply appreciate well-crafted music, this album offers a rich and rewarding experience. The ensemble performances, particularly by Ensemble Modern, bring a fresh perspective to Eisler's works, making this album a standout in the genre.