Mehldau: The Folly of Desire

"Mehldau: The Folly of Desire" is a captivating exploration of desire and its complexities in the modern age, presented as a song cycle by the renowned pianist and composer Brad Mehldau, with the esteemed tenor Ian Bostridge. Released on June 2, 2023, under the Pentatone label, this choral and classical album delves into the intricacies of sexual freedom and its boundaries in a post-#MeToo world.

The album features a diverse range of texts, from the poetic works of William Shakespeare and William Blake to contemporary pieces, all set to Mehldau's evocative compositions. Bostridge's powerful and nuanced vocals bring depth and clarity to each piece, making this collaboration a standout in the classical genre.

With a duration of 67 minutes, "Mehldau: The Folly of Desire" includes 14 tracks, each exploring different facets of desire and its consequences. The album opens with "The Sick Rose" and includes notable pieces like "Leda and the Swan," "Sonnet 147," and "Sailing to Byzantium," showcasing the breadth and depth of the themes explored.

Mehldau's piano work is as compelling as ever, providing a rich backdrop for Bostridge's vocals. The album also features beloved standards like "These Foolish Things," "Every Time We Say Goodbye," and "Night & Day," adding a touch of familiarity to the contemporary themes.

"Mehldau: The Folly of Desire" is a thought-provoking and artistically rich album that invites listeners to reflect on the nature of desire and its implications in today's society. It's a testament to the enduring power of classical music to explore and illuminate complex human experiences.

Ian Bostridge is an acclaimed English tenor renowned for his profound interpretations of opera and lieder. With a career spanning decades, Bostridge has captivated audiences worldwide, performing in prestigious venues across Europe, Asia, and North America. His deep connection to the music he performs is evident, as he sings with a purity and emotional depth that seems to transcend the physical act of singing. Bostridge's discography is extensive and award-winning, showcasing his versatility and mastery of both opera and song. Before dedicating himself fully to music, Bostridge was a post-doctoral fellow in history at Oxford, bringing an intellectual rigour to his performances. He is particularly celebrated for his interpretations of Franz Schubert's compositions, notably his collaborations with pianist Julius Drake on Schubert's Winterreise. Bostridge's extraordinary talent and dedication have solidified his status as one of the greatest Lieder interpreters of our time.