Pierre Bartholomée: Rhizomes

Legendary Belgian composer Pierre Bartholomee, best known for his avant-garde approach to classical music, has returned with his latest offering, "Choeur de Chambre Ishango: Rhizomes." From the moment the haunting vocals of the Choeur de Chambre Ishango choir hit your ears, you know you're in for a wild ride. The album opens with the mesmerizing track "Roots," a cacophony of conflicting melodies that somehow manage to blend together in perfect harmony. It's a testament to Bartholomee's genius that he can take such disparate elements and create something so cohesive. As the album progresses, it becomes clear that "Rhizomes" is not for the faint of heart. Tracks like "Branches" and "Shoots" delve into darker, more experimental territory, pushing the boundaries of what classical music can be. The Choeur de Chambre Ishango choir shines throughout, their voices soaring and intertwining in ways that seem almost impossible. But despite its complexity, "Rhizomes" never feels pretentious or inaccessible. Bartholomee's mastery of composition is evident in every note, making this album a joy to listen to from start to finish. Whether you're a die-hard classical music fan or just someone looking for something a bit different, "Choeur de Chambre Ishango: Rhizomes" is a must-listen.