Il Sogno cover

Il Sogno

Elvis Costello · 2004

61 min · 24 tracks · new wave · punk

A whimsical orchestral journey blending classical and contemporary elements through narrative-driven compositions.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • whimsical orchestral narrative flow
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • playful themes with lighthearted tones
  • immersive storytelling through music

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek standalone radio singles

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'Il Sogno' was released in 2004, Elvis Costello was transitioning into more experimental territory, following his successful collaboration with Burt Bacharach on 'Painted from Memory' in 1998. This album marked his foray into classical music, showcasing his versatility as an artist while also being a soundtrack to a ballet adaptation of Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.'
Stylistic neighbors
Joe Jackson· Graham Parker· Squeeze

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Prelude 0:49
  • 2 Overture 1:18
  • 3 Puck 1 2:20
  • 4 The Court 2:27
  • 5 The State of Affairs 4:44
  • 6 Hermia and Lysander 3:16
  • 7 The Jealousy of Helena 0:55
  • 8 Workers’ Playtime 2:16
  • 9 Oberon and Titania 4:14
  • 10 The Conspiracy of Oberon and Puck 1:08
  • 11 Slumber 1:25
  • 12 Puck 2 1:49
  • 13 The Identity Parade 4:42
  • 14 The Face of Bottom 2:49
  • 15 The Spark of Love 4:22
  • 16 Tormentress 1:41
  • 17 Oberon Humbled 3:41
  • 18 Twisted – Entangled – Transform and Exchange 2:35
  • 19 The Fairy and the Ass 1:35
  • 20 Sleep 2:48
  • 21 Bottom Awakes 1:43
  • 22 Lovers Arise 3:18
  • 23 The Play 1:31
  • 24 The Wedding 4:22

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata