Kate Soper - Kate Soper: Ipsa Dixit (LP)

Kate Soper's "Ipsa Dixit" is a captivating work of chamber music theatre that pushes the boundaries of avant-garde composition. Released on New World Records in 2018, this evening-length piece is a profound exploration of language, philosophy, and music, performed by the esteemed Wet Ink Ensemble. The album spans six tracks, each delving into different facets of human expression and thought, with titles like "Poetics," "Rhetoric," and "Metaphysics" hinting at the intellectual depth of Soper's work.

Composed between 2010 and 2016, "Ipsa Dixit" is a testament to Soper's innovative approach to music and theatre. The Latin phrase "Ipse dixit," meaning "he, himself, said it," underscores the work's examination of dogmatic statements and the power of words. Soper's compositional style is both playful and thought-provoking, blending vocal performance with flute, violin, and percussion to create a rich, multi-layered auditory experience.

The album's duration of 90 minutes offers a substantial journey through Soper's intricate musical landscape. Each track is a unique exploration, inviting the audience to engage with complex ideas and emotions. "Ipsa Dixit" is not just a listening experience; it's an immersive encounter with the intersection of music, language, and philosophy, showcasing Kate Soper's remarkable talent as a composer and her ability to create works that challenge and inspire.