Bye-bye Berlin

"Bye-bye Berlin" is a captivating journey through the vibrant and tumultuous 1920s Berlin music scene, brought to life by the enchanting vocals of Marion Rampal and the exquisite accompaniment of the Quatuor Manfred and Raphaël Imbert. This album, released in 2018 under the Harmonia Mundi label, features seventeen exquisite songs, airs, and lieder composed by legendary figures such as Kurt Weill, Paul Hindemith, Hanns Eisler, Friedrich Hollaender, and Bertolt Brecht.

Recorded in November 2016 at the Cité de la Voix in Vézelay, France, "Bye-bye Berlin" offers a rich tapestry of musical styles that reflect the cultural and artistic ferment of Weimar-era Berlin. Marion Rampal's powerful and nuanced vocals are beautifully complemented by the Quatuor Manfred's string ensemble and Raphaël Imbert's soulful saxophone, creating a mesmerizing blend of classical, jazz, and cabaret influences.

The album opens with "Marie Galante" and includes iconic pieces such as "Die Morität von Mackie Messer" from "Die Dreigroschenoper" and the hauntingly beautiful "Barbara-Song." Other highlights include "The Lavender Song," "The Ruins of Berlin," and "Falling in Love Again," each offering a unique glimpse into the diverse musical landscape of 1920s Berlin.

With a duration of just over an hour, "Bye-bye Berlin" is a testament to the enduring appeal of this era's music, expertly reimagined for contemporary audiences. Whether you're a fan of classical music, jazz, or cabaret, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.