"Battaglie & Lamenti 1600-1660" is a captivating journey through the early Baroque period, featuring the exquisite vocals of Montserrat Figueras and the masterful ensemble Hespèrion XXI, conducted by Jordi Savall. This album, released in 2000 under the Alia Vox label, showcases a collection of battle and lament compositions from renowned composers such as Monteverdi, Peri, Fontei, and Strozzi, among others.
Spanning from 1600 to 1660, the tracks offer a rich tapestry of musical styles and expressions, reflecting the tumultuous and dramatic spirit of the era. The album opens with Samuel Scheidt's "Pavan, 1621" and "Galliard Battaglia, 1621," setting the stage for a series of powerful and evocative pieces. Notable works include Claudio Monteverdi's "Lamento D'Ariana, 1608," Giacomo Carissimi's "Canzon In Echo A 8, 1608," and Barbara Strozzi's "Il Lamento 'Su'l Rodano Severo,' 1634."
Montserrat Figueras' stunning soprano voice is the centerpiece of this album, bringing depth and clarity to each lament and battle scene. Her performance is complemented by the virtuosity of Hespèrion XXI, who expertly navigate the intricate compositions with historical authenticity and musical finesse.
With a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, "Battaglie & Lamenti 1600-1660" is a comprehensive exploration of early Baroque music, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The album's meticulous attention to historical detail and exceptional performances make it a standout in the genre.