Released on the 3rd anniversary of the Russian invasion, Sheehan sets Ukrainian prayers, Latin and English texts, and Jewish melodies ‘symbolising Ukraine’s complex past, present, and future’ in a work that is tonal, lyrical, and creatively almost self-effacing in its service to ideals of tolerance, open-mindedness and respect. The sustained richness and power, vocally, emotionally and spiritually, from choir and soloists, draws us into the ongoing grief of a nation. Listening evokes crepuscular ceremony lit by candles wreathed with the smoke of incense. Prepare to be moved, shaken, stirred by this tremendous tribute to the fallen and to Ukraine’s precious cultural diversity and perilous situation.

★★★★★