Geh' Langsam Durch Die Alten Gass'n / Wiener Lieder Mit Erich Kunz

Released during the mid-20th century, this collection captures the quintessence of the Wiener Lied, a traditional genre of Viennese urban folk song. Erich Kunz, a celebrated baritone globally renowned for his Mozartian roles at the Vienna State Opera, brought a refined operatic sensibility to these sentimental and nostalgic vignettes. The record was produced to preserve the charming, atmospheric character of old Vienna, emphasizing the city's unique blend of melancholia and lightheartedness.

The musical arrangements and the artistic direction behind the Donauphon label were crafted to cater to audiences seeking an authentic connection to Viennese cultural heritage. By selecting a performer of Kunz's stature, the label aimed to elevate the genre, positioning these songs as sophisticated art pieces rather than mere popular ditties. Critics and listeners of the era lauded the record for Kunz's expressive delivery and his ability to embody the specific spirit of the Gemütlichkeit associated with the city's traditional coffeehouse and tavern culture.