Francis Grier's "Around the Curve of the World" is a captivating choral work that blends the genres of choral and requiem music, offering a profound and immersive listening experience. Released on February 1, 2014, under SOMM Recordings, this album spans a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, providing a rich and engaging journey through its 14 tracks.
The album is structured as a series of narratives, psalms, and canticles, each contributing to a larger, cohesive whole. Francis Grier's compositional prowess shines through in the intricate layering of voices and the evocative use of text, drawing listeners into a world of deep reflection and spiritual contemplation. The choral arrangements are both powerful and delicate, showcasing the versatility and skill of the performers involved.
"Around the Curve of the World" is not just a collection of tracks but a carefully crafted narrative that unfolds over the course of the album. The interplay between the chorus, soloists, and the various narrative elements creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply appreciate well-crafted compositions, this album offers a unique and rewarding experience. Francis Grier's ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements makes this a standout work in the choral genre.
2014 SOMM Recordings2014 SOMM Recordings
Tracks
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 1. Praise the Lord (Emigrant Woman, Chorus, Emigrant Man)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Daniel Norman, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Stephen Darlington, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 1. Now the Lord said unto Abraham (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: First Psalm. I rise in the morning (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 2. Behold, a sower went out to sow (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 1. The dry land is left behind (Chorus)Francis Grier, Stephen Darlington, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 3. Thus saith the Lord (John Godley, Charlotte Godley)Francis Grier, Paul Whelan, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Second Psalm. How deep are your oceans! (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 4. The ship was now in the midst (John Godley, Emigrant Woman)Francis Grier, Paul Whelan, Patricia Rozario, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 3. The sea teems with life (Chorus)Francis Grier, Stephen Darlington, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 5. Now therefore ye are not strangers (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Third Psalm. My breath lies quiet (Chorus)Francis Grier, Stephen Darlington, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 6. He is like the man (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 4. Praise to our God! (Chorus, Emigrant Woman, Emigrant Man)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Daniel Norman, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
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