Curse Upon Iron: Works for Male Chorus

"The whole programme, which is a cross-section of Tormis's rich and varied output, is deeply fascinating and the singing of OD is superb, which was only to be expected. Founded in 1853 the choir has developed into one of the most prominent interpreters of the male voice repertoire worldwide. BIS's recording allows us to hear every tiny nuance. This is a disc not to be missed by choral music lovers."
(Recording of the Month MusicWeb Jan 2013)

BIS present a disc of works by the once-described "modern shaman" Veljo Tormis

His work is chiefly composed for a cappella choir, using ancient chants and magic charms. Much of his output mirrors his steadfast devotion to an Estonian identity in the face of Soviet occupation, with some illustrating his political leanings.

The disc closes on a more lyrical and personal note - another strand in the composer's rich repertoire.

The works are performed by Cecilia Rydinger Alin and Orphei Drängar, described in Choir and Organ as 'a tremendous choir, with superb technique and an immense, expressive range'.