David Lang's "Prisoner of the State" is a gripping and dramatic exploration of political oppression, presented as a minimalist opera that pushes the boundaries of free jazz. Released on June 26, 2020, under UMC - Decca Gold, this album is a powerful reworking of Beethoven's only opera, "Fidelio," offering a unique and contemporary perspective on themes of struggle and resistance.
The album features a series of interconnected tracks, each titled "Prisoner of the State" followed by a specific phrase, creating a narrative that follows one woman's personal battle against political tyranny. With a running time of approximately one hour and four minutes, the album is a dense and immersive experience, filled with dark, seething, and engrossing compositions that keep the listener on the edge of their seat.
David Lang, known for his innovative and dramatic compositions, delivers a vibrant and thought-provoking piece that stands out in the free jazz genre. The European premiere of "Prisoner of the State" was conducted by Ilan Volkov at the Barbican Hall, featuring a star quartet of soloists and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, highlighting the album's powerful and impactful nature.
"Prisoner of the State" is not just an album; it's a powerful statement on political oppression and the human spirit's resilience. With its dramatic moments and engrossing narrative, it's an essential addition to any fan of innovative and thought-provoking music.
prisoner of the state: I was a womanDavid Lang, Julie Mathevet, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: prisoners! wake up!David Lang, Eric Owens, Matthew Pearce, John Matthew Myers, Steven Eddy, Rafael Porto, Men of the Concert Chorale of New York, Donald Nally, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: I stole a loaf of breadDavid Lang, Men of the Concert Chorale of New York, Donald Nally, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: where is the boy?David Lang, Julie Mathevet, Eric Owens, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: goldDavid Lang, Eric Owens, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: there is one thingDavid Lang, Julie Mathevet, Eric Owens, Matthew Pearce, John Matthew Myers, Steven Eddy, Rafael Porto, Men of the Concert Chorale of New York, Donald Nally, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: prison songDavid Lang, Matthew Pearce, John Matthew Myers, Steven Eddy, Rafael Porto, Men of the Concert Chorale of New York, Donald Nally, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: entrance of the governorDavid Lang, Alan Oke, Eric Owens, Julie Mathevet, Men of the Concert Chorale of New York, Donald Nally, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: better to be fearedDavid Lang, Alan Oke, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: o what desireDavid Lang, Men of the Concert Chorale of New York, Donald Nally, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: uhhh. so darkDavid Lang, Jarrett Ott, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: how cold it isDavid Lang, Julie Mathevet, Eric Owens, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: he’s movingDavid Lang, Julie Mathevet, Eric Owens, Jarrett Ott, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: return of the governorDavid Lang, Alan Oke, Eric Owens, Jarrett Ott, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: stand backDavid Lang, Julie Mathevet, Jarrett Ott, Alan Oke, Eric Owens, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: what is one man?David Lang, Alan Oke, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
prisoner of the state: waiting for the inspectorsDavid Lang, Julie Mathevet, Jarrett Ott, Alan Oke, Eric Owens, Matthew Pearce, John Matthew Myers, Steven Eddy, Rafael Porto, Men of the Concert Chorale of New York, Donald Nally, New York Philharmonic, Jaap Van Zweden
David Lang is a visionary musician who delves into the uncharted territories of free jazz, creating a unique sonic experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional music. With his innovative approach, David Lang's compositions are a testament to his bold artistic vision, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the complexities and nuances of his craft.
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David Lang
