Traditional - Oriente Lux (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of "Oriente Lux," a captivating live album that brings together the talents of the renowned early music ensemble Hespèrion XXI, led by the esteemed Jordi Savall, and the diverse voices of Orpheus 21. This collaborative effort is a testament to the power of music to bridge cultures and heal wounds, featuring musicians from Syria, Bangladesh, Belarus, Morocco, and Turkey.

Recorded live, "Oriente Lux" is a rich tapestry of traditional music from the Far and Middle East, woven with medieval European melodies. The album's theme, "paths of exile and hope," reflects the journeys of the musicians themselves, many of whom hail from regions devastated by war, famine, and natural disasters. This collection of 20 tracks, spanning nearly 90 minutes, offers a profound and moving experience, showcasing the universal language of music and the shared dignity of all humankind.

The album opens with "Sadher Lau Banailo More Boiragi," a traditional chant from Bangladesh, and journeys through a variety of styles and languages, including a Sephardic song, "La rosa enflorece," and a Greek traditional song, "Apo xeno meros." The ensemble also performs a European piece, "Improvisation and canarios," by Michael Praetorius, demonstrating the seamless blend of Eastern and Western musical traditions.

"Oriente Lux" is not just a collection of songs; it is a dialogue of souls, a conversation between cultures, and a beacon of hope. Under the guidance of Jordi Savall, the musicians of Hespèrion XXI and Orpheus 21 create a sonic landscape that is as diverse as it is unified, as ancient as it is relevant. This album is a celebration of resilience, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a reminder of the beauty that can emerge from the most challenging circumstances.