Dive into the captivating world of late Renaissance Italian music with Carlo Gesualdo's "Gesualdo: Terzo libro di madrigali," performed by the acclaimed ensemble La Compagnia del Madrigale. This album, released on Glossa in 2016, offers a profound exploration of Gesualdo's Third Book of Madrigals, a collection that laid the groundwork for his distinctive and often controversial musical style.
Carlo Gesualdo, known for his tumultuous personal life and innovative compositional techniques, presents a series of madrigals that are as emotionally charged as they are musically intricate. The ensemble, La Compagnia del Madrigale, brings a dynamic and fresh perspective to this repertoire, having garnered critical acclaim for their previous releases. Their performance of Gesualdo's Third Book is no exception, offering a riveting interpretation that highlights the composer's unique voice.
The album features 20 tracks, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, each madrigal a testament to Gesualdo's mastery of the form. From the striking opening of "Ancidetemi pur, grievi martiri" to the poignant "Donna, se m'ancidete," the ensemble navigates the complexities of Gesualdo's music with precision and passion. The album also includes selections from Gesualdo's Second and Fourth Books of Madrigals, providing a broader context for his artistic evolution.
Gesualdo's Third Book of Madrigals, composed just a year after his first diptych, already reveals the composer's penchant for the outrageous and mannered style that would define his later works. La Compagnia del Madrigale's performance captures the essence of this turning point in Gesualdo's career, offering listeners a chance to experience the raw intensity and innovation of his music.
Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance music or a newcomer to the genre, "Gesualdo: Terzo libro di madrigali" promises an enriching and engaging listening experience. The album's meticulous attention to detail, coupled with the ensemble's dynamic interpretation, makes it a standout release in the world of classical music.
Vinylscout
Carlo Gesualdo
