William Bolcom's "Bolcom: Canciones de Lorca & Prometheus" is a captivating journey through the realms of classical and vocal music, released on November 27, 2015, under the Naxos label. This album is a testament to Bolcom's versatility and ingenuity, blending his unique compositional style with the poetic genius of Federico García Lorca.
The album opens with "Canciones de Lorca," a suite of songs that Bolcom composed in 2006, setting Lorca's poetry to music. The suite is divided into nine movements, each offering a distinct musical interpretation of Lorca's verses. From the hauntingly beautiful "La casada infiel" to the rhythmic "Danza da lua en Santiago," Bolcom's compositions are both evocative and deeply moving.
The second half of the album features "Prometheus," a powerful orchestral work composed by Bolcom in 2010. This piece is a modern interpretation of the ancient Greek myth of Prometheus, exploring themes of technological dependency and human struggle. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Music Director, brings Bolcom's vision to life with a stirring performance.
With a total runtime of 54 minutes, this album is a compact yet profound exploration of Bolcom's musical language. Whether you're a fan of classical music, vocal performances, or simply appreciate innovative compositions, "Bolcom: Canciones de Lorca & Prometheus" is sure to leave a lasting impression.