Title: Antheil: Venus in Africa Artist: Bochumer Symphoniker Label: Cpo Records Product Type: COMPACT DISCS UPC: 761203745029 Genre: Classical Artists Release Date: 2025-02-07 Number of Discs: 1
After George Antheil had earned his reputation in Europe as the self-proclaimed "Bad Boy of Music" and caused plenty of scandals with his avant-garde experiments, he made a dramatic shift upon returning to his native America. This change in direction led to a significant number of important compositions, including his later symphonies and a series of one-act stage works, where Antheil dramatized a wide range of themes and situations. The final work in this series is Venus in Africa, a charming, touching, and highly amusing piece for five characters, in which the ancient goddess of love helps an American couple forge a lasting relationship. The music, oscillating between operatic turbulence, impressionistic refinement, and musical-style tunes, is further proof that Antheil had successfully shed his early rebellious image.
Tracks: 1.6 Venus in Africa~Scene Two: She didn't want to go 1.9 Venus in Africa~Scene Two: I am sorry. I can't help staring! 1.11 Venus in Africa~Scene Three: Well? / That was the most beautiful night
