On Know Thyself, lutenist and composer David Bergmüller bridges centuries, merging the ancient resonance of Renaissance, Baroque, and theorbo instruments with modern sound design and production. Recorded at Nils Frahm’s legendary Funkhaus Berlin studio with producer Martyn Heyne, the album reimagines the lute for the 21st century – without losing the intimacy and poetry of its golden age.

From the swarm-like shimmer of Cicadas (23 layered Renaissance lutes) to the hypnotic polyrhythms of Napoli Prelude, the felt-muted intimacy of Another – Uppon – Descent, and the tender Lullaby for his daughter, Bergmüller explores the instrument’s voice in new dimensions. Analogue synths, delicate delay effects, and subtle electronic textures intertwine seamlessly with hand-crafted lutes, archlutes, and theorbos – extending their sonic possibilities while honouring their tradition.

Deeply inspired by the acoustics of remarkable spaces and by his collaborations across genres, Bergmüller follows in the footsteps of historical lute composers who wrote their own music, crafting a personal, contemporary repertoire. Know Thyself is an invitation to hear the lute anew – as timeless as it is innovative.