Adiemus 2: Cantata Mundi

Album Review

Adiemus II: Cantata Mundi is world music in the broadest sense of the word. It stems from the world of Karl Jenkins' imagination. Tribal, new age, and classical are all possible labels, but none quite fit the imagined landscape of Jenkins' compositions. The opening track, "Song of Tears," is probably the most famous track from the album. As with all of Adiemus' songs, vocals consist of nonsense syllables — a language invented to allow the voice to function as another instrument. It allows the listener to focus on the overall layers of the composition and the emotion it evokes, rather than what the lyrics tell you to feel. "Song of Tears" is a prime example of this. It deftly combines mournful longing with a sense of hope, all with an indefinable tribal feel. "Song of the Spirit" captures the tempestuousness of the human spirit with a lively arrangement. "Choral IV" is in many ways its opposite, with plaintive, haunting vocals and orchestration. Though the novelty wears off about halfway through this lengthy album (75 minutes), it never tires you. Miriam Stockley's vocals are truly stunning, ranging from solemn to joyful, soaring to soothing. The London Philharmonic adds full-bodied orchestral support to this unique work. Cantata Mundi is music for the soul, transcending categorization. It's lovely and haunting, soothing and invigorating, majestic and intimate. It's a journey worth embarking on.