Nathan James Dearden's debut album, i breathe, has received a five-star review in Choir & Organ, with the reviewer describing it as 'a wonderful calling card for a first-rate composer'.
The review praises the album's range of original choral writing, its choice of texts, and the performances by the three ensembles featured on the recording: the National Youth Choir of Wales, the Choir of Royal Holloway, and Kantos Chamber Choir.
'If I could award more than five stars to this album, I would.'
The reviewer is particularly enthusiastic about the variety and imagination of the music, highlighting its combination of musical skill, originality, and connection with the wider heritage of choral music. The performances are also singled out for their commitment, with all three choirs bringing their own character to the recording.
'Each piece or set of pieces has a story to tell'
Particular attention is given to Everything about us and Morals + Interludes, which draw on the experiences of young singers during the pandemic, as well as Let all the world and the three motets commissioned for the 2024 Presteigne Festival.
The review also reflects on the personal journey that runs through the album, from Nathan's childhood in the Welsh Valleys and his own experience as a member of the National Youth Choir of Wales, to his subsequent relationships with the Choir of Royal Holloway and Kantos.
'It is a wonderful calling card for a first-rate composer.'
The reviewer concludes with an especially generous response to the album, noting that, rather than finding a single-composer collection difficult to listen to in one sitting, they enjoyed it so much that they immediately returned to several tracks before listening to the entire album again.
Read the full five-star review in Choir & Organ: https://www.choirandorgan.com/content/reviews/i-breathe-choral-music-of-nathan-james-dearden
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