Psalms Symphony
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The revered pianist and composer Peter Jonatan brings along the European ensemble the Metropole Orkest for these powerful tracks that surround the biblical Book of Psalms and welcomes the pianist Jasper Soffers, bassist Aram Kersbergen and drummer Martijn Vink.
“God, The Magnificent King” starts the listen with the bright percussion and soaring strings making for a cinematic and melodic landscape that can also trim back the volume and allow the winds to shine, and “God, The Merciful” follows with clam keys and rich winds emitting a very gentle climate.
On the back half, “God, The Protector” flows with a soothing dreaminess that radiates tremendous warmth via the meticulous instrumentation, while “God, The Savior And Holy Judge” exits with layered vocals that give the finish a choral presence that suits the animated strings and dynamic keys.
Each movement here describes God’s character as portrayed by the Psalmist, and the strong nods from jazz and classical are very much present, but the gospel, film and video game score influences won’t go unnoticed or unappreciated either.
Travels well with: John Ellis Quartet- Bizet: Carmen In Jazz; Ben Miller Trio- Feathers Of Ma’at