La Belle Homicide: Manuscrit Barbe CD

 Subtle French lute performances reward careful listening
On this cd Rolf Lislevand's reflective performance conveys the subtle emotionality of 17th century French lute music. These are beautiful performances, featuring clear, but rarely dramatically accented articulation. In the first suite, primarily of the works of Ennemond Gaultier, there is a resulting lack of contrast between the individual pieces. Other suites on this recording are more effective because Lislevand provides greater dynamics of tempo and accenting. The lutenist performs his best on half a dozen pieces by Charles Mouton with whom the performer seems to have a real affinity. These are more energetic performances without losing the nuances of the music. A chaconne of Mouton's is used en rondeau with another work of his, and one of Denis Gaultier. This medley, and a grouping in which a chaconne by Charles Boquet is used similarly, are the high points of this cd, providing effective contrast between the pieces used. Give this cd a listen in a very quiet environment, and it will reveal itself to the careful listener.
Submitted by Ken (New Haven, CT)
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