Paul Carr: The Light of Love

Paul Carr, a contemporary composer known for his deeply moving and lyrical works, presents "The Light of Love," a captivating exploration of the traditional Requiem Mass. This album, released on January 14, 2022, under EM Records, is a testament to Carr's unique ability to blend classical structures with modern sensibilities, resulting in a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly innovative.

"The Light of Love" is a Requiem Mass for mixed voice choir, featuring the hauntingly beautiful soprano saxophone, the rich tones of the violoncello, the ethereal sounds of the harp, and the grandeur of the organ. Commissioned by Ken & Stella Palmer to celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary, this work uses the standard Latin Requiem text, enhanced with additional words by Euan Tait, creating a profound and intimate listening experience.

The album's 14 tracks are a journey through the traditional Requiem Mass, from the somber "Requiem aeternam" to the hopeful "Lux aeterna." Carr's compositions are performed by an ensemble of talented musicians, including Andrew Foan conducting, Alba Merchant on violoncello, Eluned Pierce on harp, Simon Earl on organ, and Rob Burton on soprano saxophone. Their collective artistry brings Carr's vision to life, creating a sound that is both powerful and delicate.

With a duration of just over an hour, "The Light of Love" is a rich and rewarding listen. The album's blend of acid jazz, soul jazz, jazz fusion, and jazz funk elements creates a unique sonic landscape, making it a standout release in Paul Carr's discography. Whether you're a fan of classical music, jazz, or simply appreciate beautiful music, "The Light of Love" is sure to resonate with you.