Jakob Davidsen - The World Is Babel and Ivory (LP)

Dive into the avant-garde world of Jakob Davidsen with his captivating album "The World Is Babel and Ivory," released on February 14, 2020, under the Dacapo label. This 40-minute journey through sound is a testament to Davidsen's unique compositional voice and his ability to weave together diverse textual influences into a cohesive musical narrative.

The album opens with "Cruel to Be Kind," setting the tone for the exploration that follows. The centerpiece of the album is the six-part suite "The World Is Babel and Ivory," which draws from the poetry of Ursula Andkjær Olsen, William Shakespeare, and Ole Sarvig. Each movement offers a distinct perspective, from the intimate "I Can Imagine You" to the reflective "Worlds of Glass," and the culminating "All Rise." The album concludes with "Closer," leaving the listener with a sense of gentle intimacy and somber beauty.

Jakob Davidsen, both composer and conductor, leads the Figura Ensemble and Signe Asmussen in a performance that is as thrilling as it is introspective. The album's avant-garde nature is balanced by a delicate touch, making it a compelling listen for those who appreciate innovative and thought-provoking music. "The World Is Babel and Ivory" is not just an album; it's an experience that invites repeated exploration and discovery.