The one hundred and twenty-seventh classical recording: #347 Richard Wagner - Tristan und Isolde

There are some long pieces that we know we just need to tackle at some point, and when this came out randomly it was with a weary sigh - but with the bank holiday coming up, it means skipping an album this Thursday so I can keep my weeks aligned.

Tristan und Isolde is an opera telling the story of the two lovers, musically impressive but as a long romantic tale somewhat lacking the energy of other pieces, with lengthy slower parts dominating without giving as much to help you follow the story. It makes, I'll admit, for a less interesting passive listening experience, with all of it sounding good but it took until the third act to really grab me and make me pay attention.