Lauris Walter “August” – Latvian Radio Song Release
Lauris and Egon Walter Revive Klav Elsberg’s Poetry in New Album, “August”
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Despite the unpredictable August weather, a wave of artistic warmth is on the horizon. Composer Egon Walter and his son, lauris Walter, are preparing to release a new album dedicated to the poetry of Klav Elsberg, a celebrated Latvian poet whose work continues to resonate with audiences decades later. The album, featuring 11 songs, promises to be a heartfelt tribute to Elsberg’s enduring legacy, blending familiar favorites with fresh interpretations.
A Lifelong Connection to Klav Elsberg’s Work
For Lauris Walter, the connection to Klav Elsberg’s poetry is deeply personal. he recalls being introduced to his father’s musical settings of elsberg’s poems during his childhood. “already at the time, I knew that when I grew up, I would definitely want many others to hear them – those who are bound by those who are bound, whose hearts and souls are vital,” Lauris shares, highlighting the profound emotional impact of the work.
Egon Walter emphasizes the timeless quality of Elsberg’s poetry. “Klav can only be talked about in the present, as songs from different composers continue to sound. His poetry also lives and will live across times,” he states, underscoring the enduring relevance of Elsberg’s themes and artistry.
Remembering Klav elsberg: A Poet ahead of His Time
The album’s creation is also a poignant remembrance of Elsberg himself. Egon Walter recounts a vivid memory from the 1980s, when he was teaching at Bauska 1st High School (now the State Gymnasium). A colleague, Juris Arājs, who had studied with Elsberg at the Latvian University Faculty of Foreign Languages, introduced him to the poet’s work.
“I began to get to know Klav’s poetry and songs and wanted to sing them,” Egon explains. He remembers the impact Elsberg’s work had on the community at the time. “The poet went on ‘Last Fly’ on the 9th floor window of the Dubulti Writer House, still at the end of the 28-year-old…”
Egon reflects on the power of Elsberg’s poetry, describing it as “a slip on the forehead, as a sip of fresh air” that awakened a community. That initial spark of inspiration has now blossomed into a full album project, fueled by the dedication of Lauris and Krišjānis Walter, along with a network of supportive friends.
New Album Features Beloved Classics and Fresh Arrangements
The upcoming album builds on Egon Walter’s previous work with poetry, following his 2021 release featuring the works of Alexander Chuck, “Strange Girl.” This new project focuses specifically on the synergy between Walter’s compositions and Elsberg’s lyrical depth.Listeners can anticipate both familiar and new sounds. The album will include previously successful Walter/Elsberg compositions, as well as beloved tracks like “In My World” and “Sleep, Little.” vocal performances will be delivered by Lauris Walter, Krišjānis Walter, Madara orola, and Uldis Veigur, adding layers of emotional resonance to the songs.
The musical arrangements and production are being expertly handled by pianist Janis Miltiņš and guitarist Dmitry Tarasov, promising a polished and captivating listening experience. The album is a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and the lasting impact of klav Elsberg’s poetic vision.
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