"Stabat Mater" by Karl Jenkins is a captivating exploration of the timeless 13th-century Latin text, reimagined for the modern era. This 2007 release, under the Decca label, seamlessly blends traditional choral and orchestral elements with ethnic instruments and vocals, reflecting Jenkins' signature style. The album features a stunning array of performances, including mezzo-soprano Jurgita Adamonite, ethnic vocalist Belinda Sykes, and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus, all conducted by Jenkins himself.
The album's twelve tracks, spanning just over an hour, offer a rich tapestry of sounds and moods. From the dramatic and intense to the reflective and serene, each movement of "Stabat Mater" invites listeners to immerse themselves in its profound and evocative atmosphere. Highlights include the haunting "Virgo Virginum" and the soothing "Ave Verum," both of which showcase Jenkins' mastery of contrasting musical textures.
"Stabat Mater" is not just a choral work; it's a testament to Karl Jenkins' ability to bridge the gap between classical tradition and contemporary innovation. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jenkins' work or a newcomer to his unique sound, this album promises a deeply engaging and enriching listening experience. The intricate layering of voices and instruments, combined with the powerful lyrics, creates a sonic journey that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
Stabat mater: I. Cantus LacrimosusKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: II. IncantationKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: III. Vidit Jesum In TormentisKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: IV. LamentKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: V. Sancta MaterKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: VI. Now My Life Is Only WeepingKarl Jenkins, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: VII. And The Mother Did WeepKarl Jenkins, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Jody K. Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Pasi Hyökki
Stabat mater: VIII. Virgo VirginumKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: IX. Are You Lost Out In Darkness?Karl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: X. Ave VerumKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: XI. Fac, Ut Portem Christi MortemKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: XII. Paradisi GloriaKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir, Ian Tracey, Jurgita Adamonyte, Belinda Sykes, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins
Stabat mater: X. Ave Verum - Choral VersionKarl Jenkins, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Long, Ian Tracey, EMO Ensemble, Pasi Hyökki, Jody K. Jenkins