Forbidden Fruit

Benjamin Appl, the acclaimed baritone, teams up with pianist James Baillieu to present "Forbidden Fruit," a captivating exploration of temptation, prohibition, good, and evil through the lens of classical song. Released on Alpha Classics on June 23, 2023, this album spans a diverse repertoire, featuring works by composers such as Franz Schubert, Robert Schumann, and Francis Poulenc, among others. The album's title serves as a metaphor, allowing Appl and Baillieu to delve into themes of sensuality, innocence, and corruption, all within the intimate setting of vocal and piano music.

With a running time of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "Forbidden Fruit" is a rich tapestry of 42 songs that traverse various moods and narratives. The album opens with "I Will Give My Love an Apple" and closes with an arrangement of Gustav Mahler's "Urlicht," creating a compelling journey through the human experience. Highlights include settings of Goethe's "Ganymed," Schubert's "Gretchen am Spinnrade," and Poulenc's "Chansons gaillardes," each brought to life with Appl's nuanced storytelling and Baillieu's sensitive accompaniment.

Appl and Baillieu's collaboration is marked by a warm and confiding acoustic, drawing the audience into the heart of each song. The album's release coincides with Appl's celebrated Carnegie Hall debut in 2023, further cementing his status as a rising star in the classical music world. "Forbidden Fruit" is not just an album; it's a thought-provoking exploration of timeless themes, presented with artistry and depth by two of today's most compelling musicians.