MUST THE DEVIL HAVE ALL THE GOOD TUNES?

In John Adams’ intriguing composition, “Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes?,” the devil emerges as an unlikely yet captivating muse, inspiring a musical exploration of devilish solos and irresistible melodies. With this Deutsche Grammophon recording, the talented Yuja Wang joins forces with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, to deliver a performance that is both thought-provoking and toe-tapping.

The title of the piece alludes to an 18th-century notion that non-secular music was irreligious, highlighting the historical connection between music and the devil. In Adams’ work, this connection takes shape as devilish solos intertwine with melodies that beckon listeners to move to the rhythm. The composition cleverly weaves together these contrasting elements, resulting in a piece that challenges traditional notions of music’s role and significance.

Recorded in 2019 during a performance in LA, this rendition captures the essence of the work’s premiere, where Dudamel, Wang, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic collaborated to bring Adams’ vision to life. Wang’s prowess as a pianist shines brightly, skillfully navigating the devilish solos while infusing the melodies with infectious energy. Dudamel’s conducting adds a dynamic layer to the performance, leading the orchestra with precision and bringing out the intricate textures in Adams’ composition.

Alongside “Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes?,” the album includes “China Gates,” a minimalist gem that further showcases Wang’s artistry. In this meditative and contemplative piece, Wang exhibits a different facet of her talent, delicately conveying the introspective nature of the composition.

Adams’ work serves as a reminder of how composers throughout history have been fascinated by the devil’s allure, infusing their music with elements of mystery and intrigue. Through this enthralling performance, Yuja Wang and the Los Angeles Philharmonic invite audiences to reflect on the interplay between music and mythology, making “Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes?” a captivating addition to the musical repertoire.

This recording of John Adams’ “Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes?” featuring Yuja Wang and the Los Angeles Philharmonic is a thought-provoking and musically thrilling experience. With the combination of devilish solos and irresistible melodies, Adams challenges conventions and explores the timeless fascination with the devil’s influence on music. Yuja Wang’s virtuosity and Gustavo Dudamel’s masterful conducting make this album a must-listen for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on contemporary classical music.