The Libertine
Michael Nyman · 2005
47 min · 17 tracks · opera
A provocative blend of orchestral textures and theatrical narrative, evoking the excesses and moral complexities of the Restoration period.
Top tracks — play these first
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History of the Insipid Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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The Wish — This track encapsulates the longing and complexity of desire through lush orchestration and poignant melodic lines, making it a centerpiece of the album.
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Rochester's Farewell — In this piece, Nyman effectively utilizes dynamic contrasts to convey the emotional weight of parting, highlighting the character's turmoil and depth.
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A Satire Against Mankind — This track stands out for its clever interplay between humor and critique, showcasing Nyman's skill in combining lyrical content with engaging musical motifs.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with interludes
- short bursts of whimsical charm
- reflective moments of quiet introspection
- playful yet poignant thematic exploration
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer, cohesive albums
- want straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Deep Cut — A solid entry in Nyman's catalog that may not be widely recognized outside dedicated fans.
- Themes
- Restoration excess· orchestral longing· theatrical satire
- Career context
- By 2005, Michael Nyman had established himself as a prominent figure in contemporary classical music, known for his innovative film scores. 'The Libertine' marked a significant exploration into opera, serving as a creative follow-up to his acclaimed work on 'The Piano' and various collaborations with filmmakers. This album reflects Nyman's ongoing evolution as a composer melding classical traditions with modern sensibilities.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Philip Glass· Steve Reich· Arvo Pärt
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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The Mistress
The narrative shifts from playful banter to unexpected vulnerability, revealing deeper emotional stakes beneath the surface dialogue.
This transition not only enriches character development but also illustrates Nyman's ability to fuse complex emotions within a seemingly lighthearted conversation.
Tracklist
- 1 History of the Insipid Start here 3:56
- 2 Upon Drinking in a Bowl 0:47
- 3 Impromptu on an English Court 2:10
- 4 Upon Nothing 1:10
- 5 The Maimed Debauchee 0:45
- 6 The Wish 3:51
- 7 The Submission 2:31
- 8 A Ramble in St. James's Park 1:29
- 9 The Mistress 4:46
- 10 Signior Dildo 1:31
- 11 Against Constancy 3:03
- 12 My Lord All-Pride 0:58
- 13 The Imperfect Enjoyment 4:24
- 14 A Satire Against Reason 3:10
- 15 Rochester's Farewell 4:22
- 16 A Satire Against Mankind 3:05
- 17 Upon Leaving His Mistress 5:25
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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