Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of William Mathias' "This World's Joie," a captivating choral cantata released in 2022 under the TP4 Music label. This 48-minute masterpiece is a celebration of life, seamlessly blending sacred and secular texts into a tapestry of powerful and varied music. The album is structured into four distinct parts, each reflecting the changing seasons and the emotions they evoke.
From the tender arrival of spring in "Part I - Lente Is Come with Love to Town" to the vibrant warmth of summer in "Part II - Now Welcome Summer, with Thy Sunné Soft," Mathias' compositional prowess shines through. The album then transitions into the melancholic beauty of autumn in "Part III - Now Shrinketh Rose and Lily-Flower," culminating in the introspective reflections of winter in "Part IV - Winter Wakeneth All My Care."
Born in Whitland, Carmarthenshire, Mathias was a child prodigy who began playing the piano at the age of three and composing at five. His musical language, which embraces both instrumental and vocal forms with equal success, is evident throughout "This World's Joie." The album features the esteemed Bach Choir and the Choristers of St. George's Chapel, Windsor, adding a layer of depth and richness to the performance.
Whether you're a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, "This World's Joie" offers a profound and engaging listening experience. Mathias' ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music makes this album a standout in his discography and a testament to his enduring legacy.
Vinylscout