Helmut Erschbaumer
5.0 out of 5 stars A fantasy world brought to life
Rated in Germany on December 15, 2025
Russian pianist Yelena Eckemoff has fulfilled a childhood dream with this project. On this double album, she takes us on a fantastical journey through the Middle Ages. We first accompany pilgrims on their travels, resting in inns, passing fortresses, and visiting monks, before finally reaching their destination: the cathedral. In the second part, the composer depicts the more secular side of this era, letting us join knights on adventurous battles, tournaments, and courtly events, as well as exploring alchemy and the lives of lords.
Recorded in Mantua with outstanding Italian musicians and Indian drummer Trilok Gurtu, this album surprises with its rock-infused sounds and rhythms. Eckemoff herself plays not only piano, but also harpsichord and synthesizer. Anyone who wants to hear medieval music with contemporary sounds will delight in this masterpiece. It is a truly immersive listening experience.
Recorded in Mantua with outstanding Italian musicians and Indian drummer Trilok Gurtu, this album surprises with its rock-infused sounds and rhythms. Eckemoff herself plays not only piano, but also harpsichord and synthesizer. Anyone who wants to hear medieval music with contemporary sounds will delight in this masterpiece. It is a truly immersive listening experience.
jazz64
Rated in Germany on September 4, 2025
First, what unites all of this lady’s productions? Utmost perfection in music and sound! Ever since I held my first Yelena Eckemoff CD in my hands, primarily because Peter Erskine always stood for quality, my enthusiasm has remained. She has boundless imagination in composition and an equally gifted talent for arranging and performing. One only has to look at her choice of accompanists. Only the very best are good enough. In this, her latest production, the electric guitar takes center stage. Italian musicians, whom you’d never heard of, explore Baroque themes at the highest level. But here again, we have a luminary: Trilok Gurtu, the master of percussion! A must-hear, a pure delight, again on two CDs! Needless to say, I own all her productions! Good things also come from Russia…
Steve
4.0 out of 5 stars Double CD
Rated in Italy on July 7, 2025
A fantastic recording and excellent performance on all tracks. The pianist and composer is always at the forefront. The team of musicians accompanying her is all of a high caliber. As always, an intriguing work that should be savored slowly, in small, precious doses. ..Anyone who wants to hear medieval music with contemporary sounds will delight in this masterpiece. It is a truly immersive listening experience.