James MacMillan - James MacMillan: Symphony No. 5 "Le grand Inconnu" & The Sun Danced (LP)

James MacMillan's album "Symphony No. 5 'Le grand Inconnu' & The Sun Danced" is a captivating exploration of choral and orchestral music, released on April 3, 2020, under the CORO label. This album features the renowned The Sixteen, conducted by Harry Christophers, alongside the Britten Sinfonia and soprano Mary Bevan, delivering a powerful and evocative performance.

The album is divided into four main sections, starting with the standalone piece "The Sun Danced," followed by the three movements of Symphony No. 5 "Le grand Inconnu": "Ruah," "Zao," and "Igne vel igne." Each piece is a testament to MacMillan's ability to blend traditional choral music with contemporary compositions, creating a rich and immersive soundscape.

"The Sun Danced" is a poignant and reflective work that sets the tone for the album, while the symphony itself is a profound and introspective journey. The first movement, "Ruah," introduces a sense of mystery and anticipation, while "Zao" builds on this with a more dynamic and rhythmic energy. The final movement, "Igne vel igne," brings the symphony to a powerful and dramatic conclusion.

With a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album offers a substantial and rewarding listening experience. It showcases James MacMillan's unique compositional voice and the exceptional talents of the performers involved. Whether you are a fan of choral music, classical symphonies, or simply appreciate well-crafted and engaging compositions, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.