The Singing Apes & Other Songs of Love & War

Orphei Drängar, the renowned Swedish male choir, presents "The Singing Apes & Other Songs of Love & War," a captivating collection of choral works that explore the timeless themes of love and war. Released on October 31, 1996, under the BIS label, this album spans a diverse range of musical styles, from contemporary choral pieces to traditional Swedish ballads, all beautifully interpreted by Orphei Drängar.

The album opens with the powerful and evocative "The Singing Apes of Khao Yai," a composition by Swedish composer Jan Sandström that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Throughout the 19 tracks, Orphei Drängar showcases their versatility and mastery of the choral form, moving seamlessly from the haunting beauty of "The Ballad of Little Musgrave and Lady Barnard" to the stirring energy of "Wir zogen in das Feld (We Went into the Field)."

Highlights include the six choral folk songs from Op. 36b, which offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Swedish musical heritage, and the six pieces from Op. 35, which demonstrate the choir's ability to handle more contemporary compositions with equal skill and sensitivity. The album also features a selection of works by Gustav Holst, Ralph Vaughan Williams, and Franz Schubert, further underscoring the choir's breadth of repertoire.

Conducted by Robert Sund, Orphei Drängar's performance is marked by its precision, passion, and deep musicality. The choir's rich, resonant sound is perfectly captured in this recording, making it a standout in their discography. Whether you're a fan of choral music, Swedish ballads, or simply appreciate beautifully sung music, "The Singing Apes & Other Songs of Love & War" is sure to delight and inspire.