Forever: The Love Poems of Pablo Neruda

Released in 2013 on the Steinway & Sons label, 'Forever: The Love Poems of Pablo Neruda' represents a significant thematic pivot for Ute Lemper. Known primarily for her interpretations of Kurt Weill and the Berlin cabaret tradition, Lemper here collaborates with bandoneonist Marcelo Nisinman to set Neruda's legendary verse to music. The project is notable for its multilingual approach, featuring poems performed in their original Spanish alongside translations in English and French. The instrumentation is a highlight, blending Lemper's standard cabaret ensemble with the Andean charango played by Freddy Torrealba, creating a unique 'Chamber Tango' sound. Critically, the album was praised for its sophisticated arrangements and Lemper's ability to adapt her dramatic vocal style to the lyrical, often nature-focused imagery of Neruda's work. It stands as a bridge between European chanson and Latin American folk traditions.