Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of medieval music with "Fortune's Child," a captivating album featuring the works of Guillaume de Machaut, the pre-eminent composer of the fourteenth century. This exquisite collection, performed by the renowned Orlando Consort, offers a profound exploration of the human condition through the lens of courtly love and the capricious nature of Fortune.
"Fortune's Child" is the fifth volume in the Orlando Consort’s ongoing survey of Guillaume de Machaut’s polyphonic songs, released on the prestigious Hyperion label. The album showcases fourteen exquisite chansons that delve into the joys and sorrows of love, as depicted by Machaut. Each piece is a masterclass in medieval composition, blending intricate vocal harmonies with poignant lyrics that resonate across the centuries.
The album opens with the lively "Gais et jolis," a ballade that sets the tone for the diverse range of moods and styles that follow. From the plaintive "Dous amis, oy mon complaint" to the hopeful "Dame, je vueil endurer," each track offers a unique perspective on the complexities of love and desire. The motets, such as "Trop plus est bele / Biauté paree de valour / Je ne sui mie," demonstrate Machaut's mastery of polyphonic writing, while the rondeaux and virelais provide moments of lyrical beauty and rhythmic vitality.
Highlights include the haunting "Douce dame, tant com vivray," a rondeau that captures the longing and devotion of a lover, and the introspective "Honte, paour, doubtance," a ballade that explores the fears and doubts that accompany love. The album concludes with "Puis que ma dolour agree," a virelai that reflects on the enduring power of love, even in the face of adversity.
"Fortune's Child" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Guillaume de Machaut's music, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for anyone interested in the beauty and complexity of medieval vocal music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout