"Insomnia," released in 1997 under Decca Music Group Ltd., is a captivating chamber music album that showcases the extraordinary talent of violinist Gidon Kremer, accompanied by the exquisite harpist Naoko Yoshino. This album is a diverse collection of pieces that span various genres, including classical, minimalism, and even tango, offering a rich and eclectic listening experience.
The album opens with "Haro no Umi," a serene and evocative piece for violin and harp, followed by the introspective "Nocturne" for solo violin. The haunting "Stanza II" for solo harp and tape adds a modern, experimental touch to the collection. One of the standout tracks is "Insomnia," a mesmerizing piece for violin, voices, and kugo that perfectly encapsulates the album's title.
Kremer and Yoshino's collaboration shines in the "Cinque piccoli duetti," a series of five duets that range from the playful "Preludio" to the lively "Rondo." The "Six Melodies" for violin and harp offer a mix of styles, with pieces like "Rubato" and "Legatissimo" showcasing the artists' technical prowess and musical sensitivity.
The album also features a beautiful arrangement of Arvo Pärt's "Spiegel im Spiegel" for violin and harp, as well as a haunting rendition of the "Theme to The Godfather," titled "Il padrino." The album concludes with the delicate "Pantomime" from "Suite im alten Stil," leaving the listener with a sense of tranquility.
With a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, "Insomnia" is a testament to Gidon Kremer's versatility and artistry, making it a compelling addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Vinylscout