Take All My Loves: 9 Shakespeare Sonnets cover

Take All My Loves: 9 Shakespeare Sonnets

Rufus Wainwright · 2016

54 min · 16 tracks · indie pop

A lush blend of classical melodies and contemporary pop stylings, breathing new life into Shakespeare's sonnets.

Why this album works

This album is noteworthy for its ambitious melding of classical literature and modern composition, receiving critical acclaim for its innovative approach. It was praised in various publications, highlighting Wainwright's unique ability to reinterpret Shakespeare for contemporary audiences, further solidifying his place in both the pop and classical music scenes.
Best for
wave-like emotional ebb and flow thoughtful reflections on love lush melodies for quiet moments
Context
By 2016, Rufus Wainwright had established himself as a prominent figure in indie pop, with several acclaimed albums behind him. 'Take All My Loves' was his first foray into setting Shakespearean texts to music, showcasing his artistic versatility after his previous album 'Out of the Game' in 2012.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Sonnet 43 1:14
  • 2 When Most I Wink (Sonnet 43) 4:56
  • 3 Take All My Loves (Sonnet 40) Standout 6:26
  • 4 Sonnet 20 0:52
  • 5 A Woman’s Face (Sonnet 20) 3:49
  • 6 For Shame (Sonnet 10) 3:12
  • 7 Sonnet 10 0:58
  • 8 Unperfect Actor (Sonnet 23) Standout 5:45
  • 9 Sonnet 29 1:02
  • 10 When in Disgrace With Fortune and Men’s Eyes (Sonnet 29) 3:09
  • 11 Sonnet 129 1:04
  • 12 Th’Expense of Spirit in a Waste of Shame (Sonnet 129) 2:48
  • 13 All dessen müd (Sonnet 66) 8:23
  • 14 A Woman’s Face - Reprise (Sonnet 20) 3:10
  • 15 Sonnet 87 1:17
  • 16 Farewell (Sonnet 87) Standout 6:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata