Nigel Kennedy, the iconic violinist known for his revolutionary interpretations, presents "Uncensored," a sprawling compilation of his most captivating and innovative recordings. Released on November 25, 2021, via Warner Classics, this three-disc set spans over three hours and seven minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Kennedy's illustrious career.
The album features a diverse range of compositions, from the timeless works of Vivaldi and Bach to more contemporary pieces. Kennedy's signature style shines through in his interpretations of Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" and Bach's violin concertos, showcasing his technical prowess and expressive depth. The collection also includes works by Bruch, Karłowicz, Elgar, Brahms, and Beethoven, demonstrating Kennedy's versatility and mastery of the violin.
In addition to the classical repertoire, "Uncensored" includes Kennedy's arrangements of jazz standards and original compositions, such as "From Adam to Eve" and "Nice Bottle of Beaujolais, Innit?". These tracks highlight Kennedy's eclectic tastes and his ability to blend genres seamlessly.
The album is a testament to Kennedy's enduring influence on the world of classical music. His unorthodox approach and charismatic stage presence have made him a beloved figure among audiences worldwide. "Uncensored" is a celebration of his unique artistry and a treasure trove for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or simply appreciate exceptional violin playing, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in E Major, Op. 8 No. 1, RV 269 "Spring": I. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8 No. 2, RV 315 "Summer": II. AdagioAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8 No. 2, RV 315 "Summer": III. PrestoAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra
Vivaldi: L'estro armonico, Concerto for Two Violins in A Minor, Op. 3 No. 8, RV 522 "Per eco in lontano": II. Larghetto e spiritosoAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Daniel Stabrawa, Berliner Philharmoniker
Vivaldi: L'estro armonico, Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 3 No. 6, RV 356: I. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker, Daniel Stabrawa, Mitzi Meyerson, Olaf Maninger, Taro Takeuchi
Bach, JS: Violin Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, BWV 1041: II. AndanteJohann Sebastian Bach, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker
Bach, JS: Concerto for Two Violins in D Minor, BWV 1043: II. Largo ma non tantoJohann Sebastian Bach, Nigel Kennedy, Daniel Stabrawa, Berliner Philharmoniker
Bach, JS: Concerto for Two Violins in D Minor, BWV 1043: III. AllegroJohann Sebastian Bach, Nigel Kennedy, Daniel Stabrawa, Berliner Philharmoniker
Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 26: I. Prelude. Allegro moderatoMax Bruch, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra, Jeffrey Tate
Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 26: II. AdagioMax Bruch, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra, Jeffrey Tate
Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 26: III. Finale. Allegro energicoMax Bruch, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra, Jeffrey Tate
Karlowicz: Violin Concerto in A Major, Op. 8: II. Romanza (Andante)Mieczysław Karłowicz, Nigel Kennedy, Polish Chamber Orchestra, Jacek Kaspszyk, Polish Radio Chamber Orchestra
Elgar: Violin Concerto in B Minor, Op. 61: I. AllegroEdward Elgar, Nigel Kennedy, Vernon Handley, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Elgar: Violin Concerto in B Minor, Op. 61: II. AndanteEdward Elgar, Nigel Kennedy, Vernon Handley, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77: III. Allegro giocoso, ma non troppo vivaceJohannes Brahms, Nigel Kennedy, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Beethoven: Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 61: II. Larghetto (Live)Ludwig van Beethoven, Nigel Kennedy, Klaus Tennstedt, NDR-Sinfonieorchester
Beethoven: Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 61: III. Rondo. Allegro (Cadenza by Kennedy)Ludwig van Beethoven, Nigel Kennedy, Polish Chamber Orchestra
From Adam to EveBrix E. Smith, Nigel Kennedy, Stephen Duffy
Fallen ForestNigel Kennedy
Ellington / Arr. Kennedy: Black, Brown and Beige Suite: V. Come SundayDuke Ellington, Nigel Kennedy, Alec Dankworth
Stranger in a Stranger LandNigel Kennedy
Gershwin / Arr. Kennedy: The Man I LoveGeorge Gershwin, Nigel Kennedy
Kennedy: Nice Bottle of Beaujolais, Innit?Nigel Kennedy, Nigel Kennedy Quintet
Breathing StoneCaroline Lavelle, Dave Bottrill, Doug Boyle, Nigel Kennedy
Soleil Levant Sur La SeineDave Bottrill, Nigel Kennedy
RivermanNick Drake, Nigel Kennedy Quintet, Boy George, John Themis