Norgard: Lygtemaendene Tager Til Byen / Sorensen: Den Lille Havfrue

Dive into the enchanting and mysterious world of Per Nørgård's "Lygtemaendene tager til byen" (The Will-o'-the-Wisps Go to Town) and Bent Sørensen's "Den lille havfrue" (The Little Mermaid) in this captivating 2006 release from Dacapo Records. This album is a mesmerizing blend of neoclassical and avant-garde compositions that will intrigue and delight fans of innovative and thought-provoking music.

Per Nørgård's "Lygtemaendene tager til byen" is a dramatic and engaging work, divided into ten scenes, each telling a part of a larger, eerie narrative. The story, narrated through a chorus, various characters, and the will-o'-the-wisps themselves, is a haunting exploration of folklore and the supernatural. The piece is known for its intricate composition and the way it weaves together different voices and instruments to create a rich, atmospheric soundscape.

Complementing Nørgård's work is Bent Sørensen's "Den lille havfrue," a three-movement piece inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale. Sørensen's composition is a beautiful and evocative exploration of the story's themes, with the chorus, soprano, and tenor voices combining to create a sense of longing, tragedy, and hope.

The album features the talented performers Thomas Dausgaard, DR SymfoniOrkestret, and a cast of skilled vocalists, including Henning-Jensen, Kihlberg, Gjerris, and Jensen. Their performances bring Nørgård and Sørensen's compositions to life, adding depth and nuance to the already rich and complex pieces.

With a total runtime of just over an hour, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen, offering a deep dive into the worlds created by Nørgård and Sørensen. Whether you're a fan of neoclassical music, avant-garde compositions, or simply appreciate well-crafted and engaging storytelling through music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.