Peaceful protest music! Voices is a solemn, melancholic piece of poetry inspired by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 1948 during the Second World War's aftermath, 30 articles were drafted. These called for respect for the dignity of every human being and to combat discrimination and human rights violations. Unfortunately, this blueprint for a better world has still not been realized
… today. That is why Max Richter wants to call us through his music to more compassion, charity and tolerance. Richter put together a grand 'upside down' orchestra with more low, dark sounds than high ones: thanks to 13 double basses and 23 cellos. Above a meditative, soulful ambient and neoclassical style with orchestra, piano and sporadic solo and choral singing, we hear the statement being read. First of all, a historical recording with Eleanor Roosevelt, who played a huge role in the preparation of the statement. After that, actress KiKi Layne takes over her role. Around it, samples are intertwined with anonymous voices that read the statement in more than 70 languages. Impressive! On the second disc, Richters' music can be heard without the spoken voices. (SvdP)more
