The “De Profundis” text includes excerpts from the Psalms that amount to a call to God to hear our prayers and be merciful. This setting is captivating and distinctively original. The rhythmic playfulness includes mixed meters and ostinato patterns that hint at the composer’s Latin roots. Hand claps from the choir accentuate the presentation. The tenor solo is reminiscent of a cantor’s cry and pushes the harmonies into phrases of subtle bitonality. When the percussion enters the piece is on a nonstop track to a climactic finish. All in all the work is stunning! An excellent concert choice for college and professional choirs.
