Immerse yourself in the refined elegance of the medieval court with "Machaut: Sovereign Beauty," a captivating album featuring the works of Guillaume de Machaut. Released on June 30, 2017, this exquisite collection offers a respite from the harsh realities of the 14th century, transporting you to a world of courtly love and musical sophistication. The album, presented by the renowned Orlando Consort, showcases Machaut's mastery of vocal and choral compositions, highlighting his innovative use of musical structures and his profound poetic sensibilities.
"Sovereign Beauty" spans a variety of genres, including medieval, Gregorian chant, and classical music, all beautifully rendered in French. The album's 22 tracks, including virelais, ballades, motets, and lais, are performed with meticulous attention to historical accuracy and artistic expression. Notable pieces include the intricate "Tres bonne et belle, Virelai 23," the hauntingly beautiful "Foy porter, Virelai 22," and the complex "Un lay de consolation, Lai 23," which features an enormous series of twelve chaces—canons for three voices.
This album is a testament to Machaut's enduring legacy and his influence on the development of medieval music. The Orlando Consort's impeccable performance brings to life the nuances and subtleties of Machaut's compositions, making "Machaut: Sovereign Beauty" an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. With a duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, this album is a rich tapestry of sound and poetry that will captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout