Jozef van Wissem, a talented lutenist and composer, has recently released a single titled “The Call of the Deathbird” along with a ten-minute video. The video features his gruff vocals and the soothing voice of Hillary Woods, creating a meditative and intricate sound that highlights the beauty of his Renaissance-vintage lute. The video was shot in a Soviet mausoleum outside Warsaw, where van Wissem lived during the COVID lockdown, adding a haunting and empty ambiance that reflects the early days of the pandemic.
In his single, van Wissem references extinct birds called deathbirds, whose voices he sampled and modified electronically. These unique sounds were first introduced in his 2022 soundtrack for F.W. Murnau’s silent film “Nosferatu,” where he combines programmed rhythms and distorted electric guitar with his lute playing. The upcoming live performance of this soundtrack at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago marks van Wissem’s return to the city after five years.
The concert will feature van Wissem providing a live score for the screening of “Nosferatu,” a classic film from 1922 directed by F.W. Murnau. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 4th at 7 PM and will take place at the Music Box Theatre on Southport Avenue. Tickets range from $15 to $18, and the show is open to all ages.
In addition to his musical talents, van Wissem’s ability to blend historical instruments with modern electronic elements creates a unique and mesmerizing listening experience. His innovative approach to music composition has gained him recognition in the music industry and among fans of experimental and avant-garde music.
If you are a fan of live music performances and cinematic experiences, mark your calendar for Jozef van Wissem’s upcoming concert at the Music Box Theatre. Immerse yourself in the haunting sounds of his lute and electronic compositions as you watch the iconic film “Nosferatu” come to life on the big screen. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a truly one-of-a-kind performance by a talented and visionary artist.
