Dive into the enchanting world of Shakespeare's "The Tempest" reimagined through the distinctive lens of Michael Nyman's minimalist classical compositions. Released in 2016 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death, this double album is a captivating blend of two of Nyman's seminal works from the 1990s: "Prospero's Books" and "Noises, Sounds and Sweet Airs." Both scores are intricately woven around the themes and characters of Shakespeare's timeless play, offering a rich auditory experience that spans over two hours.
The album features a stellar lineup of performers, including Sarah Leonard, Marie Angel, Ute Lemper, and Deborah Conway, who bring the ethereal vocals that complement Nyman's signature repetitive motifs and haunting melodies. The Michael Nyman Band, along with various ensembles and soloists, delivers a performance that is both powerful and delicate, perfectly capturing the magical and mystical essence of "The Tempest."
With 34 tracks that range from the evocative "If by Your Art, My Dearest Father" to the mesmerizing "Full Fathom Five," this album is a testament to Nyman's ability to blend classical and minimalist styles seamlessly. Each piece is a standalone masterpiece, yet they collectively form a cohesive narrative that pays homage to Shakespeare's enduring legacy. Whether you are a fan of classical music, film scores, or simply appreciate beautifully crafted compositions, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
(C) 2016 Michael Nyman Records(P) 2016 Michael Nyman Records
Tracks
If by Your Art, My Dearest FatherMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Alas, Poor MilanMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Be't to Fly, to SwimMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
This Damned Witch ScyoraxMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
The Fringed Curtains of Thine EyeMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
There's Nothing Ill Can DwellMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
How Lush and Lusty the GrassMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Riches, Poverty, and Use of ServiceMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Sometime Like ApesMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Full Many a Lady I Have EyedMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
‘Tis a Custom in the AfternoonMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
I Have Made You MadMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
You Do Look, My Son, in a Moved SortMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
At Last I Left ThemMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
At This Hour Lie at My MercyMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Ye ElvesMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Behold, Sir KingMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Sir, She Is MortalMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
My Tricksy SpiritMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Coragio, Bully-MonsterMichael Nyman, Catherine Bott, Hilary Summers, Ian Bostridge, Ensemble Instrumental de BasseNormandie, Dominique Debart
Full Fathom FiveMichael Nyman Band, Sarah Leonard
Prospero's CurseMichael Nyman Band
While You Here Do Snoring LieMichael Nyman Band, Sarah Leonard
Prospero's MagicMichael Nyman Band
MirandaMichael Nyman Band
Twelve Years SinceMichael Nyman Band
Come Unto These Yellow SandsMichael Nyman Band, Sarah Leonard
History of SycoraxMichael Nyman Band
Come and GoMichael Nyman Band, Sarah Leonard
CornfieldMichael Nyman Band
Where the Bee SucksMichael Nyman Band, Sarah Leonard
Caliban's PitMichael Nyman Band
ReconciliationMichael Nyman Band
The MasqueMichael Nyman Band, Marie Angel, Ute Lemper, Deborah Conway
Michael Nyman is a renowned English composer, pianist, and musicologist celebrated for his innovative and prolific output across various genres. Born in London, Nyman is best known for his distinctive film scores, notably the multi-platinum soundtrack to Jane Campion's "The Piano," which blends classical elements with the energy of rock and minimalism. His compositions often combine Western classical music with a high-octane, propulsive style, earning him a reputation as one of the UK's most celebrated contemporary composers. Beyond film, Nyman has written numerous operas, concerti, string quartets, and chamber works, many of which are performed by his own Michael Nyman Band. His restless creativity extends to conducting, writing, photography, and film-making, making him a versatile and influential figure in the music world. Nyman's unique approach to composition, often described as "pump-action Purcell," continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.
Vinylscout
Michael Nyman
