Gabriella

From Gabriella Smart: Alvin Curran belongs to a long line of pianist composers who speak through their instrument as philosopher, poet, dancer, comedian, lover. His passion for the piano is visceral. As an interpreter I can read a composer’s personality through their music; Alvin’s psyche is one that that I never tire of. He has the gift of transcending humanity while remaining firmly embedded in it, of communicating vast architectural horizons while meditating on a single leaf. We became friends through a profound, shared experience.

Donizetti’s fascination with the story of Gabriella di Vergy began in 1826. His first version, written for his own pleasure, was never completed. For over a century that was all that was known to exist. In 1979, Opera Rara discovered in a London library a hitherto unknown complete opera on the same subject. Donizetti had written this for Naples in 1838. The grisly appeal of the story of Gabriella lies in its powerful final scene in which Gabriella’s husband, Fayel, delivers to her a casket containing the still-warm heart of her lover, Raoul. On this world premier recording, Opera Rara also includes three pieces from the 1826 version.

Femme Fatale is the very suitable title of Wolf Myer Orchestra's debut album. Passion, emotion and lifes other big themes are the threds, leading through this new recording. Demandig an active listener as with previous soloprojects (Seven and Storm, Rough Cuts) Parov Stelar cooperates on "Femme Fatale" with Wolf Myer and his Orchestra. Over 30 guest - artists helped to create a fresh and vivid album that is always aware of its jazzy roots but definitively goes beyond any genres thight boundaries. Hip Hop meets Soul, Funk, Pop und Jazz in a perfect blend of analog and digital. Leading the listener into a world full of intimate thoughts and capacious moments, "Femme Fatale" rejects all daily struggle and rush.