Olga Neuwirth: Lost Highway

Album Description

Olga Neuwirth's "Lost Highway" is a groundbreaking opera adaptation of David Lynch's 1997 cult film, released as an album in 2006 under the KAIROS label. This avant-garde masterpiece, composed by Neuwirth with a libretto co-written by 2004 Nobel Prize laureate Elfriede Jelinek, is a mesmerizing journey through the surreal and enigmatic world of Lynch's film. The opera, conducted by Johannes Kalitzke and performed by the renowned Klangforum Wien, features a stellar cast including Vincent Crowly, Constance Hauman, David Moss, Georg Nigl, and Andrew Watts.

The album spans an impressive 34 tracks, totaling 1 hour and 33 minutes, offering a rich and immersive experience. Each track is meticulously crafted, reflecting the intricate and complex nature of the original film. Neuwirth's compositional prowess shines through, blending avant-garde elements with a narrative that is both haunting and captivating. The opera's libretto, co-written by Jelinek, adds a layer of depth and intellectual rigor, making it a standout piece in the contemporary opera repertoire.

"Lost Highway" has garnered critical acclaim, with a critic score of 80 based on two reviews, highlighting its innovative approach and artistic merit. The album is a testament to Neuwirth's ability to translate the visual and thematic complexities of Lynch's film into a compelling musical experience. Whether you are a fan of avant-garde music, opera, or David Lynch's work, this album offers a unique and unforgettable listening experience.

July 1, 2006

2006 HNE Rights GmbH

2006 KAIROS

About Olga Neuwirth

Olga Neuwirth is a trailblazing Austrian composer and multidisciplinary artist, renowned for her innovative works that transcend traditional boundaries. Born in Graz in 1968, Neuwirth's musical journey began with trumpet lessons at the age of seven, leading her to study composition at the Vienna Academy of Music and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. A pioneer of audiovisual composition in the 1990s, she has consistently pushed the envelope, exploring a diverse range of genres and forms, including operas, radio plays, sound installations, and film music. Her avant-garde compositions have established her as one of the world's leading contemporary classical composers. Neuwirth's works, such as the original soundtrack to "Goodnight Mommy" and "Lost Highway," offer a unique auditory experience that captivates and inspires. With her extensive body of work, Olga Neuwirth continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of classical and experimental music.