Aufs Lautenwerk
New Focus, 2021
9/10
The esteemed guitarist Daniel Lippel has built an impressive resume that includes 50+ solo and chamber works as well as recitals all over the globe. Here he takes on a innovative project that transforms 3 time honored J.S. Bach masterworks from their original keys into a classical guitar refretted in Baroque well temperament.
“Preludio” starts the listen and draws the listener in immediately with its flowing guitar work and graceful exploration that’s quite complicated but not so esoteric it can’t be universally appreciated, and “Allemande” follows with a swift pace of sweeping beauty and smooth dexterity.
Further into the listen, “Gigue” amazes us with its sublime finger acrobatics and flowing melodies, as does the very poetic and hypnotic “Fugue”. “Sarabande”, a truly exceptional track, then meshes restraint with adventurousness in a truly fascinating display.
Near to the end, “Fugue” BWV998 in Eflat glides with a warm, introspective spirit, and “Allegro” exits the listen with an intricate progression that’s so well executed it’s almost perplexing in its grand presence.
If you’re familiar with the originals, there’s little doubt that this album will occupy much of your time. And if you haven’t spent any time with Bach previously, you’ll still find yourself immersed in these charming, soulful renditions.
Travels well with: Aaron Jay Myers- Clever Machines; SEAMUS- Music From SEAMUS, Vol. 30