The treasury of Danish song is closely associated with the name of the composer Carl Nielsen. His folk-like melodies are brilliantly simple and danced their way into a popular tradition which at the time was being stifled by romantic Lieder no one could sing along with. This tradition of the songs called ‘romances’ in Denmark was in fact Carl Nielsen’s starting point when he wrote his first songs; but he made it highly personal, and he soon delved to its roots with his love of simplicity. These two parallel strands – the catchy popular song and the experimental art song – remained a unique feature throughout his songwriting career.
"All of these 23 pieces are sung to near-perfection--with lovely tone, excellent expressive control, and native sensitivity to interpretation and pronunciation."
Classics Today
"Inger Dam-Jensen and Morten Ernst Lassen respond to the music’s freshness with much sensitivity. The whole CD is pure delight, including the pacing and delivery of Ulrich Staerk’s piano accompaniment."
Classical Music Web
"I can’t think of no better way to get to know Nielsen’s delightful songs than with this new Dacapo disc. Recommended with enormous affection."
International Record Review
"Two outstanding Danish singers give an ardent and irrefutable demonstration of Nielsen’s wide range and pervasive charm ... Listening to these songs is a bit like being pulled into the sirens’ lair."
Opera News
Critics’ Choice 2003 "Here is something truly exceptional ... something that brings international class of vocal delivery to this repertoire without traducing the essential Nielsensque qualities of wonder, sympathy and homeliness ... The artistry is refined and the music heavenly."
Gramophone
