Illumination

Richard Souther (Composer), Cello (Performer), Richard Souther (Performer), Sister Germaine Fritz (Performer), Katie McMahon (Performer), Nóirín Ní Riain (Performer), Erik Zobler (Performer), Nick Kitsopoulos (Performer) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Performer: Cello, Richard Souther, Sister Germaine Fritz, Katie McMahon, Nóirín Ní Riain, et al.
• Composer: Richard Souther
• Audio CD (March 11, 1997)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Sony
• ASIN: B0000029V6
• Also Available in: Audio Cassette  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #110,855 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Sensuously spiritual, November 20, 1998

By 

Jimmy Lin (New Brunswick, NJ USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Illumination (Audio CD)

This follow-up to "Vision" (which features the same composer lineup of von Bingen and Souther) is a definite step up. The lush arrangements of Souther's synths mixed with the ethereal sequences of von Bingen combine to form a tapestry that is not only sensual but downright erotic at times. Track 2 - O ignis Spiritus Paracliti - is a prime example. Cello's dark harmonies with the slow, driving beat lay a rich throb to accompany Sister Germaine and Ms. Riain's angelic melodies. Interspersed between the lyricism is Souther's own complex, yet appealing, contrapuntal accompaniments.

Fans of Deleirium's "Karma," Dead Can Dance, and other beat-driven ambient works may profit greatly from listening to this recording and its prequel.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Mystical Magnificata of Spiritual Beauty, November 2, 2005

By 

Erika Borsos "pepper flower" (Gulf Coast of FL, USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Illumination (Audio CD)

Richard Souther transports the listener to an ethereal realm on each and every note and instrument, with each original arrangement. While the music and words were initially composed and written by Hildegard von Bingen, a highly evolved 12th century mystic, artist, and healer, Richard Souther rekindles the flame with updated interpretations and instruments (synthesizer, keyboards) to appeal to modern ears. Nothing is lost in the transition ... the heart of the listener expands ever wider as the music of the past greets the present, giving and receiving the gift of Spirit.

Sister Germaine Fritz, OSB sings vocals on "Kyrie" (track #1) accompanied by Davey Spillane with a low whistle while the all female string quartet, Cello, accompany on their instruments. It provides a deeply spiritual peace, comfort and solace. Another track, "The Fire of Spirit," ignites a flame which burns brighter the more one hears the music. The lyrics in Latin are a soulful meditation for anyone seeking peace and joy in tumultous times. The intro is sung by Noirin Ni Rian, whose distinctive voice adds the right qualities to the sacred text. Sister Germaine and Katie McMahon provide lead vocals with other worldly adoration and praise for life and all of creation.

Occasionally acoustic drums add a down to earth natural appealing rhythm. The African djembe sounds nearly like a harp, bringing the listener closer to the angelic realm. The lyrics are in Latin, which has mystical and ethereal qualities sung by first class female vocalists. The mellow tones of the Cello quartet vibrate in harmony with each word sung in Latin. Anyone desiring to feel closer to Divinity and the Source should own this CD. The music celebrates life in all its myriad of forms and expressions ... providing Grace to all who listen.
Erika Borsos (erikab93)

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Vision ll, January 28, 2003

By 

Second Attention (England) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Illumination (Audio CD)

When Richard Souther finished recording Vision in 1994 for Angel Records he was soon asked to do 'Vision II' which was no surprise considering the critical and commercial success of Vision.
At this point he chose to change record labels and signed a 7 album deal with Sony Classical. This seems to have played a major role in the shaping of Illumination. With the financial weight of Sony behind him Richard had the freedom to pick and choose his guest musicians. The line-up speaks for itself.

Where as Vision has a strong musical identity and is basically a showcase for the extraordinary talent of Richard Souther, Illumination explores new musical terratories.
Like Vision, it is not a straight cover of Hildegard's gospels but a musical impression of her works that is uniquely interpreted. There is more of a world music feel to Illumination with contributions from the likes of Davey Spillane (Riverdance) reinforcing this feel.
There are some haunting vocal passages and a wide and varied mix of tones and textures that give this album an almost cold and disconcerting edge when compared to Vision. It certainly requires a little more time to absorb than its sibling but as the music unfolds the listener is treated to an aural tapestry of beautiful atmospheres and sublime musicianship.

Another essential purchase for music lovers with vision.