Will Todd's poignant album, The Burning Road, is a masterful choral symphony that tells the story of a pivotal moment in history - the 1936 Jarrow March. Commissioned by the Northampton Bach Choir in 1996, this cantata is a powerful exploration of the human spirit, set to music that is both haunting and uplifting. With a duration of just 34 minutes, the album packs a significant emotional punch, taking the listener on a journey through four evocative tracks: The Forgotten Town, The Change, The Song of the March, and the titular The Burning Road.
Todd's skill as a composer and orchestrator shines through in this work, which features a libretto by Ben Dunwell. The album has been praised for its sheer impact, with one reviewer noting that "nothing could prepare one for the tumultuous work" that Todd has created. Performed by the Crouch End Festival Chorus, David Temple, Graeme Danby, Jennifer Maybee, and the National Sinfonia, The Burning Road is a testament to Todd's ability to craft music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Released on 23 January 2023 via Tyalgum Press, The Burning Road is a must-listen for fans of choral music and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of history, politics, and art. With its jazz-tinged choral works and powerful dramatic subjects, this album is a showcase for Todd's unique talent and a powerful tribute to the people and events that inspired it.
