"Song of Songs" is a captivating choral album composed by Patrick Hawes, released on March 2, 2009, under the Signum Records label. Spanning a duration of 59 minutes, this album is a testament to Hawes' mastery in choral music, offering a rich and diverse collection of pieces that showcase his unique compositional style.
The album opens with a series of tracks inspired by the Song of Songs, a poetic and lyrical piece from the Old Testament. These tracks, including "Love's Promise," "Rhapsody," and "Many Waters," are characterized by their lush harmonies and evocative melodies, creating a sense of intimacy and passion. The choral arrangements are intricate and well-crafted, highlighting the versatility and skill of the performers.
In addition to the Song of Songs series, the album features a variety of other pieces that showcase Hawes' range as a composer. "Perfect Love" is a standout track, with its soaring melodies and powerful harmonies. "When Israel was a Child" and "The Lord's Prayer" are both deeply moving pieces, with a sense of reverence and solemnity that is characteristic of Hawes' work.
The album also includes a series of part songs from the Vauday, including "The Oaks," "Stone," and "The Carriageway." These tracks are more lighthearted and playful, with a sense of whimsy and charm that provides a nice contrast to the more serious pieces on the album.
Finally, the album closes with "Toccatta," a virtuosic and energetic piece that showcases Hawes' skill as a composer and the technical prowess of the performers. Overall, "Song of Songs" is a stunning and diverse collection of choral music that is sure to delight and inspire listeners.