John Dowland: Songs, Ayres & Dances (Various Artists)

Born in 1626, John Dowland was an English Renaissance composer, lutenist, and singer, often regarded as one of the greatest masters of the lute song. His melancholic music, filled with deep emotional expression, perfectly captures the mood of the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras. His famous works include the Bookes of Songes or Ayres and Lachrimae, or Seaven Teares, featuring pieces like "Flow my tears" and "Come heavy sleep". Dowland's compositions are characterized by their exquisite balance between poignant vocal melodies and intricate lute accompaniments, as well as his virtuosic solo lute pieces, which are still staples in the repertoire today.