Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Charles Gounod's "Mélodies," a captivating collection of songs that showcase the composer's mastery of the French mélodie. Released on June 22, 2018, by Aparté, this album is a treasure trove of 28 tracks, spanning a total of 1 hour and 20 minutes. The album features the powerful baritone of Tassis Christoyannis, accompanied by the delicate piano of Jeff Cohen, recorded in the historic Palazzetto Bru Zane in Venice.
Gounod, a prominent figure in the world of opera, brings his operatic sensibilities to these intimate songs, setting poems by notable French poets such as Théophile Gautier and Sully Prudhomme. The album offers a diverse range of emotions and themes, from the mournful "Ma Belle Amie est morte" to the playful "Primavera" and the tender "Good Night." Each song is a testament to Gounod's ability to convey deep emotion and vivid imagery through his music.
The album is not just a collection of songs but a journey through Gounod's musical evolution. It includes some of his most famous mélodies, such as "Venise" and "Au printemps," as well as lesser-known gems like "Le Banc de pierre" and "Départ." The combination of Gounod's melodic genius and the poetic texts creates a unique blend of music and literature that is sure to captivate any classical music enthusiast.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Gounod or a newcomer to his music, "Mélodies" is an album that deserves a place in your collection. It's a beautiful representation of Gounod's artistry and a delightful exploration of the French mélodie tradition.
Vinylscout