Welsh arts and culture platform The Edit Wales has published a review of Nathan James Dearden's debut album, i breathe, released on Signum Classics.
Written by Ryan Powell, the review describes the album as a reminder of why choral music remains 'one of the most powerful and human forms of artistic expression', adding that the recording is 'nothing short of extraordinary'.
'There is sophistication here, certainly, but it is always in service of communication.'
The review considers the fifteen works brought together on i breathe, written over the past decade and performed by the National Youth Choir of Wales, the Choir of Royal Holloway, and Kantos Chamber Choir. Powell explores the album's connections with place, community, and memory, and the way these ideas emerge through Nathan's writing.
Among the individual works highlighted are Three Motets, featuring cellist Maxim Calver, Morals + Interludes, and the title track, which sets poetry by Ken Jones, Paul Chambers, and Arwyn Evans. The review also draws attention to Everything about us: Now it's my time, written for the National Youth Choir of Wales, describing it as 'uplifting without sentimentality'.
'A statement of artistic identity, community and gratitude'
Powell also recognises the contribution of the three choirs featured on the album, and the relationships that have developed through their work with Nathan over the years.
The review concludes by reflecting on the personal connections behind the recording, describing i breathe as a celebration of the music, the singers, and the communities that have shaped it.
Read the full review in The Edit Wales: https://www.theeditwales.com/theedit-articles/breathing-new-life-into-contemporary-choral-music-nathan-james-deardens-i-breathe-is-something-special
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