Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra; Debussy: Jeux - Roth, London Symphony Orchestra (Hybrid SACD)

Opening with its famous ‘Sunrise’ fanfare, there is no mistaking Strauss’ Also sprach Zarathustra. A bold, intrepid tone poem, famously used by Stanley Kubrick in 2001: A Space Odyssey, it explores mankind’s place in the universe, diving headfirst into themes of religion, science and individuality.

François-Xavier Roth’s interpretation of Debussy’s Jeux completes the album. The kaleidoscopic score begins in a darkened stillness, developing fluidly with flashes of light and playful, chromatic motifs that perfectly depict the ‘games’—firstly childish, later amorous—of the ballet’s characters.

Strauss – Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176
1. I. Also sprach Zarathustra. Sonnenaufgang
2. II. Von den Hinterweltlern
3. III. Von den großen Sehnsucht
4. IV. Von den Freuden und Leidenschaften
5. V. Das Grablied
6. VI. Von der Wissenschaft
7. VIIa. Der Genesende. Energisch
8. VIIb. Der Genesende. Ziemlich langsam
9. VIII. Das Tanzlied
10. IX. Das Nachtwanderlied

11. Debussy – Jeux, poème dansé, L. 133 (L. 126)