Immerse yourself in the powerful and evocative choral works of James MacMillan with this captivating album, released on August 31, 2002, under the BIS label. Spanning a duration of 71 minutes, this album features three distinct yet interconnected compositions that showcase MacMillan's mastery of the choral genre.
The album opens with "The Confession of Isobel Gowdie," a haunting and atmospheric piece inspired by the confessions of a 17th-century Scottish witch. This is followed by "Tuireadh," a poignant and reflective work that explores themes of loss and remembrance. The album concludes with "The Exorcism of Rio Sumpúl," a dramatic and intense three-part composition that draws on the true story of a 1977 exorcism in El Salvador.
Performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Osmo Vänskä, and featuring the exceptional clarinetist Martin Fröst, this album is a testament to MacMillan's ability to blend traditional choral elements with contemporary influences. The result is a rich and immersive listening experience that highlights the depth and range of MacMillan's compositional style. Whether you're a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.