Dive into the enchanting world of "Ocean's Kingdom," Paul McCartney's fifth foray into classical music, released in 2011. This captivating album is not just a collection of songs, but the score for a ballet of the same name, commissioned by the prestigious New York City Ballet. The music, performed by the London Classical Orchestra and conducted by John Wilson, brings to life a vibrant underworld kingdom and its distinctive characters.
"Ocean's Kingdom" is divided into four movements: "Ocean's Kingdom," "Hall of Dance," "Imprisonment," and "Moonrise." Each movement tells a part of the story, creating a narrative that is as engaging as it is musically rich. The album, released on both CD and vinyl, showcases Paul McCartney's versatility as a composer, taking listeners on a journey through a world inspired by the purity of the ocean.
This album marks Paul McCartney's first venture into the world of dance, a collaboration between him and choreographer Peter Martins. The ballet, created for NYCB’s 2011 Fall Gala, is a testament to McCartney's ability to tell a story through music, this time focusing on a romance between lovers from conflicting kingdoms. The album's release was met with excitement, marking a significant milestone in McCartney's illustrious career.