The Mad Lover

On The Mad Lover, violinist Théotime Langlois de Swarte and lutenist Thomas Dunford explore the 17th-century fascination with melancholy in a program of music from the period. The titular Mad Lover—an imaginary character from the reign of Charles II and the name of a popular play of the day—is brought to life with music by Henry Purcell and his brother (or cousin) Daniel, Nicola Matteis Sr. and Jr., and Henry and John Eccles. But what makes this album even more special, beyond the terrific program, is the musical chemistry between these two inspired musicians. They play as one—and tell a fascinating story in music.