Spirits

April 2023
Daniel Lozakovich, a rising star in the world of classical violin, has once again graced us with a digital-only recital album that pays homage to some of the most remarkable interpreters of the violin in recent centuries. Released under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, “Spirits” is a captivating journey through time, skillfully bridging the past with the present.

Lozakovich’s innovative approach to “Spirits” unveils a bridge between generations, with each track an evocative homage to legendary violinists who have left their mark on musical history. This album isn’t just a collection of pieces; it’s a profound tribute to the very essence of these past masters, reimagined through Lozakovich’s distinct lens.

In the haunting strains of Debussy’s “Clair de lune,” Lozakovich conjures the spirit of David Oistrakh, whose silk-spun sound is woven into every note. His violin sings with an expressive sweetness, while his nuanced phrasing transports us to a bygone era.

Jascha Heifetz’s electrifying presence is channeled through Lozakovich’s bow in Gluck’s “Mélodie” from “Orfeo ed Euridice.” The fiery, biting zest of Heifetz reverberates through every stroke, commanding attention and infusing the piece with a passionate energy.

Elgar’s “La Capricieuse” resonates with the soulful depth associated with Josef Hassid, and Lozakovich captures this emotive essence effortlessly. His violin seems to sigh and sing, weaving a tapestry of emotion that pays homage to Hassid’s artistry while imbuing it with his own distinct hues.

While “Spirits” is a captivating tribute, it also showcases Lozakovich’s artistic versatility. In Falla’s “Danse espagnole No. 1,” his playing is bold and vivacious, offering a delightful departure from his more introspective moments. Brahms’s Hungarian Dances (Nos 2 and 6) reveal a carefully controlled interpretation, allowing the listener to revel in the intricate textures of the music.

Kreisler’s “Liebesleid” is a mesmerizing highlight, where Lozakovich channels the essence of the violinist-composer’s rubato technique. The piece unfolds with graceful ebbs and flows, captivating the listener with its simplicity and elegance.

The album’s impeccable production quality is a testament to the artistry involved. Lozakovich’s performance was captured within the hallowed halls of the Louis Vuitton Foundation’s museum and cultural center in Paris, utilizing a 1727 Stradivarius. The result is a sound that envelops the listener, allowing them to be fully immersed in the world of “Spirits.”

In “Spirits,” Daniel Lozakovich embarks on a journey through time, capturing the essence of revered violinists and infusing their spirits into his own interpretations. This album is a resounding testament to the enduring power of music—a reminder that the past is alive and resonant in the hands of a gifted musician. “Spirits” beckons listeners to surrender to its evocative embrace and experience the magic of transcending eras through sound.