The Requiem by Estonian composer Eduard Tubin (1905-1982) is not a ‘blissful ascent to heaven’ like the Gabriel Fauré, or a ‘fire and brimstone descent to hell’ like the Verdi and Berlioz, or a strict ‘liturgical and sacramental’ offering like the Mozart. Scored for male choir, mezzo soprano, organ and percussion, it’s more of a raw and biting look at the virulent modern world and the devastating aftermath of World War II. It’s opening segment (Be Hailed, Be Hailed) is dark, powerful and foreboding (with a hint of martial rigor) as it should but not overtly dramatic and theatrical like the aforementioned versions. I’ve always admired Eduard Tubin’s symphonies for their unabashedly distinctive style and character, and the same can be said about his choral works.

“He remained a devoted choral conductor throughout his entire creative career, and men’s choir music held a particularly special place in his heart ” {Booklet Notes}. The Estonian National Male Choir, which over the last eighty years has given more than 7,000 concerts, exhibits an expressive range usually attributed to mixed choirs. From moments of hushed sadness to barefaced cries of anger, their delivery is always truly convincing and a genuine reflection of the music at hand. And here, the combination of voices, percussion and pipe organ makes for a powerful listening experience.