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24 results for “TheChoir”
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@exitthelemming
Erm, did we mention we're a choir? 🤔😁🎶#choir
#symphonychoir
#CEFC
#londonchoir
#choralmusic
#classicalmusic
#choralmusic
#soundtracks
#singing
#VersatileChoir
#MostVersatileChoir
#JoyOfSinging -
The choir who proudly admit they cannot sing
Eight years ago, Diane Chapman placed an advert in a local paper for choir members but there was…
#Canada #BBC #BBCMerseyside #BBCRadioMerseysideonSounds #Byron #ByronChapman #DebbieLakerRothwell #Diane #DianeChapman #JoyGarvin #LauraTollitt #Off-KeyChoir #SheilaByne #SheilaByrne
https://www.europesays.com/canada/198783/ -
The Secret Behind Powerful Harmonies
One of the defining characteristics of an outstanding choir is not the strength of individual voices, but the beauty of voices working together in harmony. Powerful harmonies are not accidental—they are the result of musical understanding, disciplined listening, and a shared commitment to excellence.
As a choir director and music instructor, I’ve learned that the choirs with the richest sound are not always those with the most talented singers. They are the choirs whose members understand that harmony is about collaboration, not competition.
- Listen More Than You Sing
One of the greatest mistakes singers make is focusing only on their own part. Strong harmonies begin when every singer actively listens to the voices around them.
Great choristers constantly adjust their tone, pitch, and volume to achieve a balanced ensemble sound.
A choir that listens together sings together.
- Master Your Vocal Part
Confidence in harmony begins with preparation.
Whether you sing soprano, alto, tenor, or bass, know your part thoroughly before rehearsal. When every section is secure, the choir can focus on musical expression rather than simply finding notes.
Preparation creates the flexibility required for creativity and improvisation.
- Prioritize Blend Over Volume
Harmony is not about singing louder than everyone else. It is about creating one unified sound.
Each singer should aim to blend with the choir by matching vowel sounds, tone quality, diction, and dynamics. The goal is for the audience to hear the choir—not individual voices competing for attention.
- Develop Excellent Pitch Awareness
Harmony depends on accurate intonation.
Regular ear training, scale practice, and interval exercises help singers recognize pitch relationships and maintain tuning throughout a performance.
When every voice is in tune, harmony becomes effortless and beautiful.
- Follow the Conductor
The conductor unifies the choir’s musical interpretation.
Watching the conductor helps the choir breathe together, enter confidently, shape phrases, maintain tempo, and communicate dynamics consistently.
Visual connection creates musical unity.
- Understand the Musical Story
Harmony is more than combining different notes—it is combining different voices to communicate one message.
When singers understand the meaning of the lyrics, they naturally shape their dynamics, phrasing, and emotional expression to support the message of the song.
Technical excellence becomes even more powerful when it is paired with genuine expression.
- Build Trust Within the Team
Exceptional harmony is built on genuine love and selflessness.
These allow singers to support one another, accept correction with humility, celebrate each other’s growth, and work toward a common goal without unhealthy competition.
A choir that values unity will always sound stronger than one driven by individual recognition.
Conclusion
Powerful harmonies are created long before the performance. They are built through disciplined rehearsals, attentive listening, musical preparation, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the music rather than individual egos.
When every singer embraces these principles, the choir becomes more than a collection of voices—it becomes one musical instrument, capable of communicating beauty, emotion, and inspiration with remarkable impact.
Harmony is not simply about singing different notes at the same time. It is about different people working together with one purpose. No barriers, reservations, grudges, or color.
Reflection
When you sing with your choir, are you focused on being heard, or on helping the choir sound its very best?
#art #band #choir #churchchoir #collaboration #commitment #consistency #creativity #CulturalAwareness #dailyprompt #dailyprompt1928 #diversity #family #ImprovedDisciplineAndPatience #mindfulness #music #musicLanguage #musicians #musicperformance #performance #performancetips #rehearsal #respect #retreat #SATB #singer #singers #singersgospelSingers #stagepresence #teamBond #teamwork #Victoradenola“Powerful harmony begins when every singer values the success of the choir above the sound of their own voice. Unity is the foundation of every unforgettable performance.” — Victor Adenola
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The Secret Behind Powerful Harmonies
One of the defining characteristics of an outstanding choir is not the strength of individual voices, but the beauty of voices working together in harmony. Powerful harmonies are not accidental—they are the result of musical understanding, disciplined listening, and a shared commitment to excellence.
As a choir director and music instructor, I’ve learned that the choirs with the richest sound are not always those with the most talented singers. They are the choirs whose members understand that harmony is about collaboration, not competition.
- Listen More Than You Sing
One of the greatest mistakes singers make is focusing only on their own part. Strong harmonies begin when every singer actively listens to the voices around them.
Great choristers constantly adjust their tone, pitch, and volume to achieve a balanced ensemble sound.
A choir that listens together sings together.
- Master Your Vocal Part
Confidence in harmony begins with preparation.
Whether you sing soprano, alto, tenor, or bass, know your part thoroughly before rehearsal. When every section is secure, the choir can focus on musical expression rather than simply finding notes.
Preparation creates the flexibility required for creativity and improvisation.
- Prioritize Blend Over Volume
Harmony is not about singing louder than everyone else. It is about creating one unified sound.
Each singer should aim to blend with the choir by matching vowel sounds, tone quality, diction, and dynamics. The goal is for the audience to hear the choir—not individual voices competing for attention.
- Develop Excellent Pitch Awareness
Harmony depends on accurate intonation.
Regular ear training, scale practice, and interval exercises help singers recognize pitch relationships and maintain tuning throughout a performance.
When every voice is in tune, harmony becomes effortless and beautiful.
- Follow the Conductor
The conductor unifies the choir’s musical interpretation.
Watching the conductor helps the choir breathe together, enter confidently, shape phrases, maintain tempo, and communicate dynamics consistently.
Visual connection creates musical unity.
- Understand the Musical Story
Harmony is more than combining different notes—it is combining different voices to communicate one message.
When singers understand the meaning of the lyrics, they naturally shape their dynamics, phrasing, and emotional expression to support the message of the song.
Technical excellence becomes even more powerful when it is paired with genuine expression.
- Build Trust Within the Team
Exceptional harmony is built on genuine love and selflessness.
These allow singers to support one another, accept correction with humility, celebrate each other’s growth, and work toward a common goal without unhealthy competition.
A choir that values unity will always sound stronger than one driven by individual recognition.
Conclusion
Powerful harmonies are created long before the performance. They are built through disciplined rehearsals, attentive listening, musical preparation, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the music rather than individual egos.
When every singer embraces these principles, the choir becomes more than a collection of voices—it becomes one musical instrument, capable of communicating beauty, emotion, and inspiration with remarkable impact.
Harmony is not simply about singing different notes at the same time. It is about different people working together with one purpose. No barriers, reservations, grudges, or color.
Reflection
When you sing with your choir, are you focused on being heard, or on helping the choir sound its very best?
#art #band #choir #churchchoir #collaboration #commitment #consistency #creativity #CulturalAwareness #dailyprompt #dailyprompt1928 #diversity #family #ImprovedDisciplineAndPatience #mindfulness #music #musicLanguage #musicians #musicperformance #performance #performancetips #rehearsal #respect #retreat #SATB #singer #singers #singersgospelSingers #stagepresence #teamBond #teamwork #Victoradenola“Powerful harmony begins when every singer values the success of the choir above the sound of their own voice. Unity is the foundation of every unforgettable performance.” — Victor Adenola
-
The Secret Behind Powerful Harmonies
One of the defining characteristics of an outstanding choir is not the strength of individual voices, but the beauty of voices working together in harmony. Powerful harmonies are not accidental—they are the result of musical understanding, disciplined listening, and a shared commitment to excellence.
As a choir director and music instructor, I’ve learned that the choirs with the richest sound are not always those with the most talented singers. They are the choirs whose members understand that harmony is about collaboration, not competition.
- Listen More Than You Sing
One of the greatest mistakes singers make is focusing only on their own part. Strong harmonies begin when every singer actively listens to the voices around them.
Great choristers constantly adjust their tone, pitch, and volume to achieve a balanced ensemble sound.
A choir that listens together sings together.
- Master Your Vocal Part
Confidence in harmony begins with preparation.
Whether you sing soprano, alto, tenor, or bass, know your part thoroughly before rehearsal. When every section is secure, the choir can focus on musical expression rather than simply finding notes.
Preparation creates the flexibility required for creativity and improvisation.
- Prioritize Blend Over Volume
Harmony is not about singing louder than everyone else. It is about creating one unified sound.
Each singer should aim to blend with the choir by matching vowel sounds, tone quality, diction, and dynamics. The goal is for the audience to hear the choir—not individual voices competing for attention.
- Develop Excellent Pitch Awareness
Harmony depends on accurate intonation.
Regular ear training, scale practice, and interval exercises help singers recognize pitch relationships and maintain tuning throughout a performance.
When every voice is in tune, harmony becomes effortless and beautiful.
- Follow the Conductor
The conductor unifies the choir’s musical interpretation.
Watching the conductor helps the choir breathe together, enter confidently, shape phrases, maintain tempo, and communicate dynamics consistently.
Visual connection creates musical unity.
- Understand the Musical Story
Harmony is more than combining different notes—it is combining different voices to communicate one message.
When singers understand the meaning of the lyrics, they naturally shape their dynamics, phrasing, and emotional expression to support the message of the song.
Technical excellence becomes even more powerful when it is paired with genuine expression.
- Build Trust Within the Team
Exceptional harmony is built on genuine love and selflessness.
These allow singers to support one another, accept correction with humility, celebrate each other’s growth, and work toward a common goal without unhealthy competition.
A choir that values unity will always sound stronger than one driven by individual recognition.
Conclusion
Powerful harmonies are created long before the performance. They are built through disciplined rehearsals, attentive listening, musical preparation, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the music rather than individual egos.
When every singer embraces these principles, the choir becomes more than a collection of voices—it becomes one musical instrument, capable of communicating beauty, emotion, and inspiration with remarkable impact.
Harmony is not simply about singing different notes at the same time. It is about different people working together with one purpose. No barriers, reservations, grudges, or color.
Reflection
When you sing with your choir, are you focused on being heard, or on helping the choir sound its very best?
#art #band #choir #churchchoir #collaboration #commitment #consistency #creativity #CulturalAwareness #dailyprompt #dailyprompt1928 #diversity #family #ImprovedDisciplineAndPatience #mindfulness #music #musicLanguage #musicians #musicperformance #performance #performancetips #rehearsal #respect #retreat #SATB #singer #singers #singersgospelSingers #stagepresence #teamBond #teamwork #Victoradenola“Powerful harmony begins when every singer values the success of the choir above the sound of their own voice. Unity is the foundation of every unforgettable performance.” — Victor Adenola
-
The Secret Behind Powerful Harmonies
One of the defining characteristics of an outstanding choir is not the strength of individual voices, but the beauty of voices working together in harmony. Powerful harmonies are not accidental—they are the result of musical understanding, disciplined listening, and a shared commitment to excellence.
As a choir director and music instructor, I’ve learned that the choirs with the richest sound are not always those with the most talented singers. They are the choirs whose members understand that harmony is about collaboration, not competition.
- Listen More Than You Sing
One of the greatest mistakes singers make is focusing only on their own part. Strong harmonies begin when every singer actively listens to the voices around them.
Great choristers constantly adjust their tone, pitch, and volume to achieve a balanced ensemble sound.
A choir that listens together sings together.
- Master Your Vocal Part
Confidence in harmony begins with preparation.
Whether you sing soprano, alto, tenor, or bass, know your part thoroughly before rehearsal. When every section is secure, the choir can focus on musical expression rather than simply finding notes.
Preparation creates the flexibility required for creativity and improvisation.
- Prioritize Blend Over Volume
Harmony is not about singing louder than everyone else. It is about creating one unified sound.
Each singer should aim to blend with the choir by matching vowel sounds, tone quality, diction, and dynamics. The goal is for the audience to hear the choir—not individual voices competing for attention.
- Develop Excellent Pitch Awareness
Harmony depends on accurate intonation.
Regular ear training, scale practice, and interval exercises help singers recognize pitch relationships and maintain tuning throughout a performance.
When every voice is in tune, harmony becomes effortless and beautiful.
- Follow the Conductor
The conductor unifies the choir’s musical interpretation.
Watching the conductor helps the choir breathe together, enter confidently, shape phrases, maintain tempo, and communicate dynamics consistently.
Visual connection creates musical unity.
- Understand the Musical Story
Harmony is more than combining different notes—it is combining different voices to communicate one message.
When singers understand the meaning of the lyrics, they naturally shape their dynamics, phrasing, and emotional expression to support the message of the song.
Technical excellence becomes even more powerful when it is paired with genuine expression.
- Build Trust Within the Team
Exceptional harmony is built on genuine love and selflessness.
These allow singers to support one another, accept correction with humility, celebrate each other’s growth, and work toward a common goal without unhealthy competition.
A choir that values unity will always sound stronger than one driven by individual recognition.
Conclusion
Powerful harmonies are created long before the performance. They are built through disciplined rehearsals, attentive listening, musical preparation, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the music rather than individual egos.
When every singer embraces these principles, the choir becomes more than a collection of voices—it becomes one musical instrument, capable of communicating beauty, emotion, and inspiration with remarkable impact.
Harmony is not simply about singing different notes at the same time. It is about different people working together with one purpose. No barriers, reservations, grudges, or color.
Reflection
When you sing with your choir, are you focused on being heard, or on helping the choir sound its very best?
#art #band #choir #churchchoir #collaboration #commitment #consistency #creativity #CulturalAwareness #dailyprompt #dailyprompt1928 #diversity #family #ImprovedDisciplineAndPatience #mindfulness #music #musicLanguage #musicians #musicperformance #performance #performancetips #rehearsal #respect #retreat #SATB #singer #singers #singersgospelSingers #stagepresence #teamBond #teamwork #Victoradenola“Powerful harmony begins when every singer values the success of the choir above the sound of their own voice. Unity is the foundation of every unforgettable performance.” — Victor Adenola
-
The Secret Behind Powerful Harmonies
One of the defining characteristics of an outstanding choir is not the strength of individual voices, but the beauty of voices working together in harmony. Powerful harmonies are not accidental—they are the result of musical understanding, disciplined listening, and a shared commitment to excellence.
As a choir director and music instructor, I’ve learned that the choirs with the richest sound are not always those with the most talented singers. They are the choirs whose members understand that harmony is about collaboration, not competition.
- Listen More Than You Sing
One of the greatest mistakes singers make is focusing only on their own part. Strong harmonies begin when every singer actively listens to the voices around them.
Great choristers constantly adjust their tone, pitch, and volume to achieve a balanced ensemble sound.
A choir that listens together sings together.
- Master Your Vocal Part
Confidence in harmony begins with preparation.
Whether you sing soprano, alto, tenor, or bass, know your part thoroughly before rehearsal. When every section is secure, the choir can focus on musical expression rather than simply finding notes.
Preparation creates the flexibility required for creativity and improvisation.
- Prioritize Blend Over Volume
Harmony is not about singing louder than everyone else. It is about creating one unified sound.
Each singer should aim to blend with the choir by matching vowel sounds, tone quality, diction, and dynamics. The goal is for the audience to hear the choir—not individual voices competing for attention.
- Develop Excellent Pitch Awareness
Harmony depends on accurate intonation.
Regular ear training, scale practice, and interval exercises help singers recognize pitch relationships and maintain tuning throughout a performance.
When every voice is in tune, harmony becomes effortless and beautiful.
- Follow the Conductor
The conductor unifies the choir’s musical interpretation.
Watching the conductor helps the choir breathe together, enter confidently, shape phrases, maintain tempo, and communicate dynamics consistently.
Visual connection creates musical unity.
- Understand the Musical Story
Harmony is more than combining different notes—it is combining different voices to communicate one message.
When singers understand the meaning of the lyrics, they naturally shape their dynamics, phrasing, and emotional expression to support the message of the song.
Technical excellence becomes even more powerful when it is paired with genuine expression.
- Build Trust Within the Team
Exceptional harmony is built on genuine love and selflessness.
These allow singers to support one another, accept correction with humility, celebrate each other’s growth, and work toward a common goal without unhealthy competition.
A choir that values unity will always sound stronger than one driven by individual recognition.
Conclusion
Powerful harmonies are created long before the performance. They are built through disciplined rehearsals, attentive listening, musical preparation, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the music rather than individual egos.
When every singer embraces these principles, the choir becomes more than a collection of voices—it becomes one musical instrument, capable of communicating beauty, emotion, and inspiration with remarkable impact.
Harmony is not simply about singing different notes at the same time. It is about different people working together with one purpose. No barriers, reservations, grudges, or color.
Reflection
When you sing with your choir, are you focused on being heard, or on helping the choir sound its very best?
#art #band #choir #churchchoir #collaboration #commitment #consistency #creativity #CulturalAwareness #dailyprompt #dailyprompt1928 #diversity #family #ImprovedDisciplineAndPatience #mindfulness #music #musicLanguage #musicians #musicperformance #performance #performancetips #rehearsal #respect #retreat #SATB #singer #singers #singersgospelSingers #stagepresence #teamBond #teamwork #Victoradenola“Powerful harmony begins when every singer values the success of the choir above the sound of their own voice. Unity is the foundation of every unforgettable performance.” — Victor Adenola
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Behind the choir will be an extraordinary backdrop: a #RoodScreen made not of wood but of stone, twisting and curving to the sky. It's been dated to the 1350s. So, just after the #BlackDeath... Who would have supported innovation at such a time?
https://www.barnes1.net/clairefromclare/posts/20260618_Patronage_after_the_plague.html
@medievodons#StoneCarving #Craftsmanship #Patronage #GreatBardfield #Stebbing #LadyOfClare
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Vanderlust – The Human Farm Review By Andy-War-HallAliens offer to take you away and give you a perfect—albeit short—life: do you say yes? According to Italian cosmic prog metal band Vanderlust, many of you would. “So, a bunch of people everywhere on Earth gave themselves” to the Coelacanths for that same offer, so opens The Human Farm. Several generations later, a human uprising leads to an escape from slavery and the discovery that the Coelacanths were all along harvesting Humans for their emotions. This isn’t meant to be funny. Vanderlust were deadset on telling a compelling sci-fi adventure in The Human Farm, enlisting guest keyboardist Francesco Londino (S91) and vocalist Martina Barreca (Mass Excess) to play the role of the Coelacanths. But did Vanderlust give us a sci-fi adventure for the ages with The Human Farm?
The gooey earnestness with which Vanderlust spill their adventure on The Human Farm is often matched by skill and musical vision. Vanderlust tear through speed-demonic numbers like “Viral Escape” or “Golden Shackles” with acerbically hooky, Vektor-gone-power-metal riffage while creating respite between the narrative beats with moody clean guitars and skittering drums on “The Turning Point” and “Connection Failed.” Guitarist Francesco Romeggini solos like mad on The Human Farm, shredding Megadethly over Blind Guardian riffs on the almost-instrumental “From the Cave – Fuga” and imbuing “Drive” with a gravitas and refinement. Bassist David Cantina and drummer Giacomo Mezzetti hold down Vanderlust’s rhythms, both driving (“Reborn…Again”) and groovy (“Humanity 3.0 – The New Canaan”) and shine on the “Battlefield”‘s bass solo and underlying fills. Ricca Morello’s vocals can get a bit mush-mouthed in the softer moments, but his power metal-inclined range and delivery crush the big moments, and Barreca’s death growls hit consistently, recalling Ophelion’s vocal duo on 2025’s The Jaunt. The Human Farm isn’t groundbreaking conceptually, but Vanderlust have the chops to tell their tale.
The Human Farm thrives in its biggest moments. Morello sounds his best when he goes all in, like on the Blind Guardian-coded power bonanza “Battlefield”1 and emotionally charged bookends “Humanity 2.0 – The Human Farm” and “Humanity 3.0 – The New Canaan.” Barreca’s growls add tons of punch to Vanderlust’s sound. When she trades lines with the choir on “Connection Failed” or clean sings on “Reborn…Again” and brings Meat Loaf melodrama to Dream Theater balladry, it feels so right. However, The Human Farm lulls when Vanderlust take the pedal off the metal. Momentum from “Golden Shackles” dissipates in the slow-burning of “The Turning Point” and doesn’t return until halfway through “Connection Failed,” and the barn-burning energy of “Viral Escape” is utterly deflated by the narrative interlude “…Find Them!”. However, Vanderlust are at any given time never too far off from another soaring crescendo, making The Human Farm an exciting listen, if not consistently so.
Vanderlust’s conceptual ambitions ultimately hinder The Human Farm, I feel. Vanderlust frequently dumb down musical ideas to allow narration more sonic space. This issue is exacerbated by the uniformly bad acting performances across The Human Farm, which resembles those 90s PC games where they just threw some interns into the booth. But even if the line reads were good, interjected into songs like “From the Cave – Fuga” and “Connection Failed,” they come off as a tacked-on concession to the story rather than an integral part of the music, coming off as distracting or even detrimental to the music. Vanderlust can do interesting things musically to tell their story, like having Barreca clean sing in “Reborn…Again” after the Coelacanths are defeated, reflecting them at their most vulnerable, or reworking the “Humanity 2.0…” motif into the end of “Humanity 3.0…,” where humankind has escaped captivity but find new challenges in freedom and lead some to question their revolution altogether.2 But for the most part, the way Vanderlust tell the story of The Human Farm detracts from what they do well: thrashy prog-power anthems.
If Vanderlust could hone their storytelling as well as their songwriting on The Human Farm, we’d have a great record on our hands. As is, there are too many conflicting elements in The Human Farm for more than a lukewarm recommendation, though there are fantastic songs throughout. Fans of prog-power will find things to like here, and Vanderlust is a band to keep an eye on, and I certainly will try to catch their third album should they make one. I’m not sure if Vanderlust have a Terminal Redux or Access All Worlds in them, but I wouldn’t put it past them either.
Rating: Mixed
#25 #2026 #Apr26 #BlindGuardian #DreamTheater #ItalianMetal #MassExcess #MeatLoaf #Megadeth #Ophelion #PowerMetal #ProgressiveMetal #Review #Reviews #RockshotsRecords #S91 #TheHumanFarm #Vanderlust #Vektor
DR: 6 | Format Reviewed: V0 VBR mp3
Label: Rockshots Records
Websites: facebook.com/vanderlustofficial | soundcloud.com/vanderlust-music
Releases Worldwide: April 17th, 2026 -
Leading the album is the single “Miracle Worker,” first unveiled during the Louis Vuitton SS26 Runway Show. The track showcases the choir’s soaring harmonies layered over Pharrell’s unmistakable production style.
https://retroworldnews.com/pharrell-voices-of-fire-unveil-powerful-new-album-ophanim/#Pharrell #VoicesOfFire #Ophanim #NewAlbum #MusicRelease #SoulfulSounds #PowerfulMusic #AlbumLaunch #MusicCollaboration #InspirationThroughMusic #ArtisticExpression #MusicIndustry #CreativeJourney #VocalHarmony #CulturalImpact #MusicalInnovation #Music
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Leading the album is the single “Miracle Worker,” first unveiled during the Louis Vuitton SS26 Runway Show. The track showcases the choir’s soaring harmonies layered over Pharrell’s unmistakable production style.
https://retroworldnews.com/pharrell-voices-of-fire-unveil-powerful-new-album-ophanim/#Pharrell #VoicesOfFire #Ophanim #NewAlbum #MusicRelease #SoulfulSounds #PowerfulMusic #AlbumLaunch #MusicCollaboration #InspirationThroughMusic #ArtisticExpression #MusicIndustry #CreativeJourney #VocalHarmony #CulturalImpact #MusicalInnovation #Music
-
Leading the album is the single “Miracle Worker,” first unveiled during the Louis Vuitton SS26 Runway Show. The track showcases the choir’s soaring harmonies layered over Pharrell’s unmistakable production style.
https://retroworldnews.com/pharrell-voices-of-fire-unveil-powerful-new-album-ophanim/#Pharrell #VoicesOfFire #Ophanim #NewAlbum #MusicRelease #SoulfulSounds #PowerfulMusic #AlbumLaunch #MusicCollaboration #InspirationThroughMusic #ArtisticExpression #MusicIndustry #CreativeJourney #VocalHarmony #CulturalImpact #MusicalInnovation #Music
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Leading the album is the single “Miracle Worker,” first unveiled during the Louis Vuitton SS26 Runway Show. The track showcases the choir’s soaring harmonies layered over Pharrell’s unmistakable production style.
https://retroworldnews.com/pharrell-voices-of-fire-unveil-powerful-new-album-ophanim/#Pharrell #VoicesOfFire #Ophanim #NewAlbum #MusicRelease #SoulfulSounds #PowerfulMusic #AlbumLaunch #MusicCollaboration #InspirationThroughMusic #ArtisticExpression #MusicIndustry #CreativeJourney #VocalHarmony #CulturalImpact #MusicalInnovation #Music
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3/5 St Albans Cathedral
Looking into the choir with the Bishop's Throne half visible on the left.
#ttartisan10mmf2 on #Olympus EM1iii.
.
.
#photography #microfourthirds #churchphotography #architecture #architecturephotography -
How to Prepare for Choir Rehearsal
A productive rehearsal begins long before the choir gathers. The quality of every rehearsal depends on how well each member prepares beforehand.
As a choir director and music instructor, I’ve discovered that the most successful rehearsals are not those where people come to learn everything from scratch—they are those where members arrive prepared, focused, and ready to contribute.
Preparation is a sign of respect for the choir, the director, and the music you have been entrusted to present.
- Spend Time with the Music
Don’t wait until rehearsal to hear the songs for the first time. Listen to the recordings, study your vocal part, and become familiar with the melody, rhythm, and lyrics.
Personal preparation makes group rehearsals more productive.
2. Warm Up Your Voice
Your voice is your instrument, and every instrument performs better when properly prepared.
Spend 10–15 minutes doing breathing exercises, humming, lip trills, and vocal scales before rehearsal. A warmed-up voice is more flexible, controlled, and less likely to become strained.
3. Pray and Prepare Your Mind
Whether your choir serves in ministry or performs professionally, mental and spiritual preparation are important..
Leave behind unnecessary distractions and come with a willingness to learn, receive correction, and contribute positively to the team.
A focused mind leads to a focused rehearsal.
4. Arrive Early
Being early gives you time to settle in, greet your team, organize your music, and warm up without rushing.
Punctuality reflects professionalism and respect for everyone’s time.
5. Bring Everything You Need
Come prepared with your music folder, notebook, pencil, water bottle, tablet, or any materials required for rehearsal.
Being prepared minimizes interruptions and keeps rehearsals flowing smoothly.
6. Review Previous Corrections
If the choir director gave corrections during the last rehearsal, take time to practice them before the next one.
Growth happens when corrections are applied—not merely heard.
7. Come Ready to Listen
Rehearsal is more than singing. It is a time to listen carefully to instructions, blend with other voices, and work together toward a common goal.
A choir that listens well learns faster.
8. Bring the Right Attitude
Perhaps the most important preparation is your attitude.
Come with humility, patience, teachability, and a willingness to support your fellow choir members. Encourage others, avoid distractions, and focus on contributing to the success of the entire team.
Great rehearsals are built by people with great attitudes.
Conclusion
Choir rehearsal is not just about learning songs—it’s about building excellence together. Every member contributes to the atmosphere, the progress, and the final performance.
When everyone arrives prepared, rehearsals become more efficient, music becomes more expressive, and the choir grows stronger with every session.
Preparation doesn’t guarantee perfection, but it gives excellence the opportunity to thrive.
Reflection
If every member of your choir prepared the way you do, how much more effective would your next rehearsal be?
#art #band #bands #bootCamp #choir #churchchoir #commitment #consistency #musicDirector #rehearsal #respect #retreat #SATB #singers #singersgospelSingers #VictoradenolaGreat performances begin long before the stage. They are built by singers who prepare with discipline, rehearse with purpose, and serve with excellence.” — Victor Adenola
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4/5 St Albans Cathedral
Another looking up photo from #StAlbans #cathedral. This is above the choir and with more sunstars courtesy of the
#ttartisan10mmf2 on #Olympus EM1iii.#photography #microfourthirds #churchphotography #architecture #architecturephotography
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Whatnot Wednesday for #ThursdayDoors on a Hot August Night
Wednesday, August 13, 2026
Fictional Dannys Grocery photo Dan Antion, 2019Hello, everyone. Right off the bat, I apologize for getting ahead of Thursday Doors. It helps me on a few different levels if I stick to my Wednesday/Weekend posting schedule. Last week, I mentioned that throughout August I’ll be sharing about book Brother Love: A Crossroad. (Click here for that post because it will tell you more.) I also said that Dan Antion made a lot of great photos to illustrate the blog version of this story. Those photographs included some doors. So today I’m taking you on a tour of my fictional 1950s town, Parlement, Mississippi via Dan’s photos.
Birdie Devovo’s house as imagined by Dan AntionHere’s a bit about that house in the words of Birdie Devovo, the heroine:
My house sat in a triangle between ways at a crossroads. There was a street in front and another road in back. There were also any number of old trails that intersected there. Old superstitions about the crossroads abounded. My mother had been able to get the house because no one else would have it. I kept it because I had nowhere else would have it.
Photo by Dan Antion 2019Oh, that screen door is part of a suspenseful scene…
Doug Armstrong’s voice sounded as spooked as I felt. The big man’s voice had the slightest quiver. His fist banged on the screen doorframe again. I extricated myself from my hiding spot under the kitchen table before Armstrong broke the poor excuse for door.
AME Church, Dan Antion 2019Like most small southern towns, there were churches. They’re mentioned in the story, but the one that comes into the plot is the traveling tent revival:
Earlier that day, sitting in my little house at the crossroads, I listened to the sharp crack of a bat hitting a baseball from the ballgame that had started up in the field next to the African Methodist Episcopal Church. People cheered their teams and made happy sounds. From the other side of the tracks, I heard the bell of the First Methodist Church up in the town. When the breeze was right, I could hear the Wurlitzer organ as the choir practiced. Folks were excited about that organ. I preferred the sound of their old piano.
The two churches were on either side of the town. The crossroads lay between the two. Nobody from either of them ever came to the house at the crossroads. Neither group wanted anything to do with Birdie Devovo.
Old Steak n Shake diner by Dan Antion 2019This abandoned diner didn’t make it into the story, but there would have been a diner somewhere in Parlement. Anyway, it’s a cool photo, so it gets a moment of fame today.
1952 Nash Rambler Wagon, WikipediaWomen in big cities might have started wearing slim cigarette or capri pants out in public, but that hadn’t become acceptable in Parliament, Mississippi. I already attracted enough frowns and gossip, just from my mother’s reputation, so I didn’t wear those out in public. I tried to banish the thoughts as I put on a yellow gingham, shirt-dress. It had a little bow at the neck from the same check fabric. Then I tied on my blue denim Keds. New white laces kept the wear and tear from being as noticeable. Nobody would know the soles were worn slick. When I drove my old Nash Rambler wagon into Parliament, I turned onto Fourth Street where the Post Office was.
“The Hub” at Iowa State University was a post office until 1963. Dan Antion 2019In rural towns of that era, the local Post Office could be a hub of information. Birdie came across something quite puzzling there.
Laundry, by Dan Antion 2019Birdie is a nickname for the heroine, but there actually is a bird, and he’s one of the most important characters. His name is Jinx. He’s a talking magpie. Some parts of the story are told from his point of view.
Jinx sat on the perch in his birdcage. The cage door was open as always. He shifted foot-to-foot as Birdie came into the kitchen carrying a laundry basket and a small container of blueberries.
“How-deee!” Jinx chirped his Minnie Pearl impression.
My composite of Jinx wearing a bow tie while perched on Dan’s birdcage, 2019There’s a door on that birdcage somewhere… Birdie Devovo usually leaves it open — Jinx comes and goes as he pleases. That’s how he finds so much trouble in a sleepy little town like Parlement.
♣ ♣ ♣
Hello, Jinx, but this post is finished now. That’s it for this tour of Birdie Devovo’s world in fictional town of Parlement. Thanks for coming along. Friendly comments are welcome. However, a note to newcomers — just remember that this is a sanctuary, so we don’t discuss religion, politics, or things that are polarizing. Everyone needs to feel welcome. Hugs on the wing!
♣ ♣ ♣
Naturally, the obligatory shameless self-promotion must be included. Brother Love: A Crossroad continues to be at a special sale price throughout the month of August.
Brother Love – a Crossroad
Strange things abound in 1950s Parliament, Mississippi. Jinx the magpie can fill you in on the details.
New, updated book coverUniversal Purchase Links
E-Book: relinks.me/B07V25SXFR
Paperback: relinks.me/107952309X
Audiobook: Click here.
♣ ♣ ♣
This blog is entirely human-written. Furthermore, the author expressly prohibits any entity from using this publication for purposes of training AI technologies to generate text. No part of this work may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.
All images are either the property of the author, or used with permission, or from free sources.
Copyright © 2026 by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene
All rights reserved.
#1950s #BrotherLoveACrossroad #DanAntion #MagicRealism #Photography #ReReleaseBook #SouthernGothic #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #ThursdayDoors -
Whatnot Wednesday for #ThursdayDoors on a Hot August Night
Wednesday, August 13, 2026
Fictional Dannys Grocery photo Dan Antion, 2019Hello, everyone. Right off the bat, I apologize for getting ahead of Thursday Doors. It helps me on a few different levels if I stick to my Wednesday/Weekend posting schedule. Last week, I mentioned that throughout August I’ll be sharing about book Brother Love: A Crossroad. (Click here for that post because it will tell you more.) I also said that Dan Antion made a lot of great photos to illustrate the blog version of this story. Those photographs included some doors. So today I’m taking you on a tour of my fictional 1950s town, Parlement, Mississippi via Dan’s photos.
Birdie Devovo’s house as imagined by Dan AntionHere’s a bit about that house in the words of Birdie Devovo, the heroine:
My house sat in a triangle between ways at a crossroads. There was a street in front and another road in back. There were also any number of old trails that intersected there. Old superstitions about the crossroads abounded. My mother had been able to get the house because no one else would have it. I kept it because I had nowhere else would have it.
Photo by Dan Antion 2019Oh, that screen door is part of a suspenseful scene…
Doug Armstrong’s voice sounded as spooked as I felt. The big man’s voice had the slightest quiver. His fist banged on the screen doorframe again. I extricated myself from my hiding spot under the kitchen table before Armstrong broke the poor excuse for door.
AME Church, Dan Antion 2019Like most small southern towns, there were churches. They’re mentioned in the story, but the one that comes into the plot is the traveling tent revival:
Earlier that day, sitting in my little house at the crossroads, I listened to the sharp crack of a bat hitting a baseball from the ballgame that had started up in the field next to the African Methodist Episcopal Church. People cheered their teams and made happy sounds. From the other side of the tracks, I heard the bell of the First Methodist Church up in the town. When the breeze was right, I could hear the Wurlitzer organ as the choir practiced. Folks were excited about that organ. I preferred the sound of their old piano.
The two churches were on either side of the town. The crossroads lay between the two. Nobody from either of them ever came to the house at the crossroads. Neither group wanted anything to do with Birdie Devovo.
Old Steak n Shake diner by Dan Antion 2019This abandoned diner didn’t make it into the story, but there would have been a diner somewhere in Parlement. Anyway, it’s a cool photo, so it gets a moment of fame today.
1952 Nash Rambler Wagon, WikipediaWomen in big cities might have started wearing slim cigarette or capri pants out in public, but that hadn’t become acceptable in Parliament, Mississippi. I already attracted enough frowns and gossip, just from my mother’s reputation, so I didn’t wear those out in public. I tried to banish the thoughts as I put on a yellow gingham, shirt-dress. It had a little bow at the neck from the same check fabric. Then I tied on my blue denim Keds. New white laces kept the wear and tear from being as noticeable. Nobody would know the soles were worn slick. When I drove my old Nash Rambler wagon into Parliament, I turned onto Fourth Street where the Post Office was.
“The Hub” at Iowa State University was a post office until 1963. Dan Antion 2019In rural towns of that era, the local Post Office could be a hub of information. Birdie came across something quite puzzling there.
Laundry, by Dan Antion 2019Birdie is a nickname for the heroine, but there actually is a bird, and he’s one of the most important characters. His name is Jinx. He’s a talking magpie. Some parts of the story are told from his point of view.
Jinx sat on the perch in his birdcage. The cage door was open as always. He shifted foot-to-foot as Birdie came into the kitchen carrying a laundry basket and a small container of blueberries.
“How-deee!” Jinx chirped his Minnie Pearl impression.
My composite of Jinx wearing a bow tie while perched on Dan’s birdcage, 2019There’s a door on that birdcage somewhere… Birdie Devovo usually leaves it open — Jinx comes and goes as he pleases. That’s how he finds so much trouble in a sleepy little town like Parlement.
♣ ♣ ♣
Hello, Jinx, but this post is finished now. That’s it for this tour of Birdie Devovo’s world in fictional town of Parlement. Thanks for coming along. Friendly comments are welcome. However, a note to newcomers — just remember that this is a sanctuary, so we don’t discuss religion, politics, or things that are polarizing. Everyone needs to feel welcome. Hugs on the wing!
♣ ♣ ♣
Naturally, the obligatory shameless self-promotion must be included. Brother Love: A Crossroad continues to be at a special sale price throughout the month of August.
Brother Love – a Crossroad
Strange things abound in 1950s Parliament, Mississippi. Jinx the magpie can fill you in on the details.
New, updated book coverUniversal Purchase Links
E-Book: relinks.me/B07V25SXFR
Paperback: relinks.me/107952309X
Audiobook: Click here.
♣ ♣ ♣
This blog is entirely human-written. Furthermore, the author expressly prohibits any entity from using this publication for purposes of training AI technologies to generate text. No part of this work may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.
All images are either the property of the author, or used with permission, or from free sources.
Copyright © 2026 by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene
All rights reserved.
#1950s #BrotherLoveACrossroad #DanAntion #MagicRealism #Photography #ReReleaseBook #SouthernGothic #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #ThursdayDoors -
Whatnot Wednesday for #ThursdayDoors on a Hot August Night
Wednesday, August 13, 2026
Fictional Dannys Grocery photo Dan Antion, 2019Hello, everyone. Right off the bat, I apologize for getting ahead of Thursday Doors. It helps me on a few different levels if I stick to my Wednesday/Weekend posting schedule. Last week, I mentioned that throughout August I’ll be sharing about book Brother Love: A Crossroad. (Click here for that post because it will tell you more.) I also said that Dan Antion made a lot of great photos to illustrate the blog version of this story. Those photographs included some doors. So today I’m taking you on a tour of my fictional 1950s town, Parlement, Mississippi via Dan’s photos.
Birdie Devovo’s house as imagined by Dan AntionHere’s a bit about that house in the words of Birdie Devovo, the heroine:
My house sat in a triangle between ways at a crossroads. There was a street in front and another road in back. There were also any number of old trails that intersected there. Old superstitions about the crossroads abounded. My mother had been able to get the house because no one else would have it. I kept it because I had nowhere else would have it.
Photo by Dan Antion 2019Oh, that screen door is part of a suspenseful scene…
Doug Armstrong’s voice sounded as spooked as I felt. The big man’s voice had the slightest quiver. His fist banged on the screen doorframe again. I extricated myself from my hiding spot under the kitchen table before Armstrong broke the poor excuse for door.
AME Church, Dan Antion 2019Like most small southern towns, there were churches. They’re mentioned in the story, but the one that comes into the plot is the traveling tent revival:
Earlier that day, sitting in my little house at the crossroads, I listened to the sharp crack of a bat hitting a baseball from the ballgame that had started up in the field next to the African Methodist Episcopal Church. People cheered their teams and made happy sounds. From the other side of the tracks, I heard the bell of the First Methodist Church up in the town. When the breeze was right, I could hear the Wurlitzer organ as the choir practiced. Folks were excited about that organ. I preferred the sound of their old piano.
The two churches were on either side of the town. The crossroads lay between the two. Nobody from either of them ever came to the house at the crossroads. Neither group wanted anything to do with Birdie Devovo.
Old Steak n Shake diner by Dan Antion 2019This abandoned diner didn’t make it into the story, but there would have been a diner somewhere in Parlement. Anyway, it’s a cool photo, so it gets a moment of fame today.
1952 Nash Rambler Wagon, WikipediaWomen in big cities might have started wearing slim cigarette or capri pants out in public, but that hadn’t become acceptable in Parliament, Mississippi. I already attracted enough frowns and gossip, just from my mother’s reputation, so I didn’t wear those out in public. I tried to banish the thoughts as I put on a yellow gingham, shirt-dress. It had a little bow at the neck from the same check fabric. Then I tied on my blue denim Keds. New white laces kept the wear and tear from being as noticeable. Nobody would know the soles were worn slick. When I drove my old Nash Rambler wagon into Parliament, I turned onto Fourth Street where the Post Office was.
“The Hub” at Iowa State University was a post office until 1963. Dan Antion 2019In rural towns of that era, the local Post Office could be a hub of information. Birdie came across something quite puzzling there.
Laundry, by Dan Antion 2019Birdie is a nickname for the heroine, but there actually is a bird, and he’s one of the most important characters. His name is Jinx. He’s a talking magpie. Some parts of the story are told from his point of view.
Jinx sat on the perch in his birdcage. The cage door was open as always. He shifted foot-to-foot as Birdie came into the kitchen carrying a laundry basket and a small container of blueberries.
“How-deee!” Jinx chirped his Minnie Pearl impression.
My composite of Jinx wearing a bow tie while perched on Dan’s birdcage, 2019There’s a door on that birdcage somewhere… Birdie Devovo usually leaves it open — Jinx comes and goes as he pleases. That’s how he finds so much trouble in a sleepy little town like Parlement.
♣ ♣ ♣
Hello, Jinx, but this post is finished now. That’s it for this tour of Birdie Devovo’s world in fictional town of Parlement. Thanks for coming along. Friendly comments are welcome. However, a note to newcomers — just remember that this is a sanctuary, so we don’t discuss religion, politics, or things that are polarizing. Everyone needs to feel welcome. Hugs on the wing!
♣ ♣ ♣
Naturally, the obligatory shameless self-promotion must be included. Brother Love: A Crossroad continues to be at a special sale price throughout the month of August.
Brother Love – a Crossroad
Strange things abound in 1950s Parliament, Mississippi. Jinx the magpie can fill you in on the details.
New, updated book coverUniversal Purchase Links
E-Book: relinks.me/B07V25SXFR
Paperback: relinks.me/107952309X
Audiobook: Click here.
♣ ♣ ♣
This blog is entirely human-written. Furthermore, the author expressly prohibits any entity from using this publication for purposes of training AI technologies to generate text. No part of this work may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.
All images are either the property of the author, or used with permission, or from free sources.
Copyright © 2026 by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene
All rights reserved.
#1950s #BrotherLoveACrossroad #DanAntion #MagicRealism #Photography #ReReleaseBook #SouthernGothic #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #ThursdayDoors -
Whatnot Wednesday for #ThursdayDoors on a Hot August Night
Wednesday, August 13, 2026
Fictional Dannys Grocery photo Dan Antion, 2019Hello, everyone. Right off the bat, I apologize for getting ahead of Thursday Doors. It helps me on a few different levels if I stick to my Wednesday/Weekend posting schedule. Last week, I mentioned that throughout August I’ll be sharing about book Brother Love: A Crossroad. (Click here for that post because it will tell you more.) I also said that Dan Antion made a lot of great photos to illustrate the blog version of this story. Those photographs included some doors. So today I’m taking you on a tour of my fictional 1950s town, Parlement, Mississippi via Dan’s photos.
Birdie Devovo’s house as imagined by Dan AntionHere’s a bit about that house in the words of Birdie Devovo, the heroine:
My house sat in a triangle between ways at a crossroads. There was a street in front and another road in back. There were also any number of old trails that intersected there. Old superstitions about the crossroads abounded. My mother had been able to get the house because no one else would have it. I kept it because I had nowhere else would have it.
Photo by Dan Antion 2019Oh, that screen door is part of a suspenseful scene…
Doug Armstrong’s voice sounded as spooked as I felt. The big man’s voice had the slightest quiver. His fist banged on the screen doorframe again. I extricated myself from my hiding spot under the kitchen table before Armstrong broke the poor excuse for door.
AME Church, Dan Antion 2019Like most small southern towns, there were churches. They’re mentioned in the story, but the one that comes into the plot is the traveling tent revival:
Earlier that day, sitting in my little house at the crossroads, I listened to the sharp crack of a bat hitting a baseball from the ballgame that had started up in the field next to the African Methodist Episcopal Church. People cheered their teams and made happy sounds. From the other side of the tracks, I heard the bell of the First Methodist Church up in the town. When the breeze was right, I could hear the Wurlitzer organ as the choir practiced. Folks were excited about that organ. I preferred the sound of their old piano.
The two churches were on either side of the town. The crossroads lay between the two. Nobody from either of them ever came to the house at the crossroads. Neither group wanted anything to do with Birdie Devovo.
Old Steak n Shake diner by Dan Antion 2019This abandoned diner didn’t make it into the story, but there would have been a diner somewhere in Parlement. Anyway, it’s a cool photo, so it gets a moment of fame today.
1952 Nash Rambler Wagon, WikipediaWomen in big cities might have started wearing slim cigarette or capri pants out in public, but that hadn’t become acceptable in Parliament, Mississippi. I already attracted enough frowns and gossip, just from my mother’s reputation, so I didn’t wear those out in public. I tried to banish the thoughts as I put on a yellow gingham, shirt-dress. It had a little bow at the neck from the same check fabric. Then I tied on my blue denim Keds. New white laces kept the wear and tear from being as noticeable. Nobody would know the soles were worn slick. When I drove my old Nash Rambler wagon into Parliament, I turned onto Fourth Street where the Post Office was.
“The Hub” at Iowa State University was a post office until 1963. Dan Antion 2019In rural towns of that era, the local Post Office could be a hub of information. Birdie came across something quite puzzling there.
Laundry, by Dan Antion 2019Birdie is a nickname for the heroine, but there actually is a bird, and he’s one of the most important characters. His name is Jinx. He’s a talking magpie. Some parts of the story are told from his point of view.
Jinx sat on the perch in his birdcage. The cage door was open as always. He shifted foot-to-foot as Birdie came into the kitchen carrying a laundry basket and a small container of blueberries.
“How-deee!” Jinx chirped his Minnie Pearl impression.
My composite of Jinx wearing a bow tie while perched on Dan’s birdcage, 2019There’s a door on that birdcage somewhere… Birdie Devovo usually leaves it open — Jinx comes and goes as he pleases. That’s how he finds so much trouble in a sleepy little town like Parlement.
♣ ♣ ♣
Hello, Jinx, but this post is finished now. That’s it for this tour of Birdie Devovo’s world in fictional town of Parlement. Thanks for coming along. Friendly comments are welcome. However, a note to newcomers — just remember that this is a sanctuary, so we don’t discuss religion, politics, or things that are polarizing. Everyone needs to feel welcome. Hugs on the wing!
♣ ♣ ♣
Naturally, the obligatory shameless self-promotion must be included. Brother Love: A Crossroad continues to be at a special sale price throughout the month of August.
Brother Love – a Crossroad
Strange things abound in 1950s Parliament, Mississippi. Jinx the magpie can fill you in on the details.
New, updated book coverUniversal Purchase Links
E-Book: relinks.me/B07V25SXFR
Paperback: relinks.me/107952309X
Audiobook: Click here.
♣ ♣ ♣
This blog is entirely human-written. Furthermore, the author expressly prohibits any entity from using this publication for purposes of training AI technologies to generate text. No part of this work may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.
All images are either the property of the author, or used with permission, or from free sources.
Copyright © 2026 by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene
All rights reserved.
#1950s #BrotherLoveACrossroad #DanAntion #MagicRealism #Photography #ReReleaseBook #SouthernGothic #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #ThursdayDoors -
Whatnot Wednesday for #ThursdayDoors on a Hot August Night
Wednesday, August 13, 2026
Fictional Dannys Grocery photo Dan Antion, 2019Hello, everyone. Right off the bat, I apologize for getting ahead of Thursday Doors. It helps me on a few different levels if I stick to my Wednesday/Weekend posting schedule. Last week, I mentioned that throughout August I’ll be sharing about book Brother Love: A Crossroad. (Click here for that post because it will tell you more.) I also said that Dan Antion made a lot of great photos to illustrate the blog version of this story. Those photographs included some doors. So today I’m taking you on a tour of my fictional 1950s town, Parlement, Mississippi via Dan’s photos.
Birdie Devovo’s house as imagined by Dan AntionHere’s a bit about that house in the words of Birdie Devovo, the heroine:
My house sat in a triangle between ways at a crossroads. There was a street in front and another road in back. There were also any number of old trails that intersected there. Old superstitions about the crossroads abounded. My mother had been able to get the house because no one else would have it. I kept it because I had nowhere else would have it.
Photo by Dan Antion 2019Oh, that screen door is part of a suspenseful scene…
Doug Armstrong’s voice sounded as spooked as I felt. The big man’s voice had the slightest quiver. His fist banged on the screen doorframe again. I extricated myself from my hiding spot under the kitchen table before Armstrong broke the poor excuse for door.
AME Church, Dan Antion 2019Like most small southern towns, there were churches. They’re mentioned in the story, but the one that comes into the plot is the traveling tent revival:
Earlier that day, sitting in my little house at the crossroads, I listened to the sharp crack of a bat hitting a baseball from the ballgame that had started up in the field next to the African Methodist Episcopal Church. People cheered their teams and made happy sounds. From the other side of the tracks, I heard the bell of the First Methodist Church up in the town. When the breeze was right, I could hear the Wurlitzer organ as the choir practiced. Folks were excited about that organ. I preferred the sound of their old piano.
The two churches were on either side of the town. The crossroads lay between the two. Nobody from either of them ever came to the house at the crossroads. Neither group wanted anything to do with Birdie Devovo.
Old Steak n Shake diner by Dan Antion 2019This abandoned diner didn’t make it into the story, but there would have been a diner somewhere in Parlement. Anyway, it’s a cool photo, so it gets a moment of fame today.
1952 Nash Rambler Wagon, WikipediaWomen in big cities might have started wearing slim cigarette or capri pants out in public, but that hadn’t become acceptable in Parliament, Mississippi. I already attracted enough frowns and gossip, just from my mother’s reputation, so I didn’t wear those out in public. I tried to banish the thoughts as I put on a yellow gingham, shirt-dress. It had a little bow at the neck from the same check fabric. Then I tied on my blue denim Keds. New white laces kept the wear and tear from being as noticeable. Nobody would know the soles were worn slick. When I drove my old Nash Rambler wagon into Parliament, I turned onto Fourth Street where the Post Office was.
“The Hub” at Iowa State University was a post office until 1963. Dan Antion 2019In rural towns of that era, the local Post Office could be a hub of information. Birdie came across something quite puzzling there.
Laundry, by Dan Antion 2019Birdie is a nickname for the heroine, but there actually is a bird, and he’s one of the most important characters. His name is Jinx. He’s a talking magpie. Some parts of the story are told from his point of view.
Jinx sat on the perch in his birdcage. The cage door was open as always. He shifted foot-to-foot as Birdie came into the kitchen carrying a laundry basket and a small container of blueberries.
“How-deee!” Jinx chirped his Minnie Pearl impression.
My composite of Jinx wearing a bow tie while perched on Dan’s birdcage, 2019There’s a door on that birdcage somewhere… Birdie Devovo usually leaves it open — Jinx comes and goes as he pleases. That’s how he finds so much trouble in a sleepy little town like Parlement.
♣ ♣ ♣
Hello, Jinx, but this post is finished now. That’s it for this tour of Birdie Devovo’s world in fictional town of Parlement. Thanks for coming along. Friendly comments are welcome. However, a note to newcomers — just remember that this is a sanctuary, so we don’t discuss religion, politics, or things that are polarizing. Everyone needs to feel welcome. Hugs on the wing!
♣ ♣ ♣
Naturally, the obligatory shameless self-promotion must be included. Brother Love: A Crossroad continues to be at a special sale price throughout the month of August.
Brother Love – a Crossroad
Strange things abound in 1950s Parliament, Mississippi. Jinx the magpie can fill you in on the details.
New, updated book coverUniversal Purchase Links
E-Book: relinks.me/B07V25SXFR
Paperback: relinks.me/107952309X
Audiobook: Click here.
♣ ♣ ♣
This blog is entirely human-written. Furthermore, the author expressly prohibits any entity from using this publication for purposes of training AI technologies to generate text. No part of this work may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.
All images are either the property of the author, or used with permission, or from free sources.
Copyright © 2026 by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene
All rights reserved.
#1950s #BrotherLoveACrossroad #DanAntion #MagicRealism #Photography #ReReleaseBook #SouthernGothic #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #ThursdayDoors -
Choir Etiquette Everyone Should Know
A successful choir is built on more than beautiful voices. It is built on respect, discipline, teamwork, and professionalism. No matter how talented a singer may be, poor attitude and careless habits can weaken the effectiveness of the entire team.
As a choir director and mentor, I’ve learned that the strongest choirs are not necessarily those with the best singers—they are those where every member understands that excellence begins with character.
Here are some essential principles of choir etiquette every chorister should practice:
- Be Punctual
Arriving on time is a sign of respect for your choir director and fellow choir members. It gives you time to settle in, warm up your voice, and prepare mentally for rehearsal or performance.
Punctuality reflects commitment.
2. Come Prepared
Don’t rely solely on rehearsals to learn your part. Practice at home, review recordings, and familiarize yourself with the music before rehearsal.
Prepared singers help rehearsals become productive instead of repetitive.
3. Listen More Than You Speak
When the director is giving instructions, listen attentively. Avoid unnecessary conversations, side comments, or distractions.
Listening carefully reduces mistakes and helps the entire choir move forward together.
4. Respect Every Team Member
Every singer plays an important role, regardless of voice part or experience. Encourage one another, avoid unhealthy competition, and celebrate each other’s growth.
A choir thrives when members build one another up.
5. Receive Correction with Humility
Corrections are meant to improve the choir, not embarrass individuals. Accept feedback positively and use it as an opportunity to grow.
A teachable attitude is one of the greatest strengths a singer can have.
6. Maintain Professionalism on and off the Platform
Your appearance, posture, attitude, and conduct all communicate something about you and your team.
Represent your choir with dignity, humility, and excellence wherever you go.
7. Stay Focused During Performances
Avoid unnecessary movements, conversations, or distractions while on stage. Maintain good posture, follow the conductor, and remain engaged from beginning to end.
Professionalism is often noticed in the smallest details.
8. Protect the Unity of the Choir
Avoid gossip, unnecessary criticism, and unresolved conflicts. Address concerns respectfully and seek solutions that strengthen relationships.
Unity creates an environment where great music can flourish.
Conclusion
Choir etiquette is not about following rules for the sake of rules. It is about creating a culture of respect, excellence, and teamwork where every member can contribute their best.
When each chorister values discipline as much as talent, rehearsals become more productive, performances become more impactful, and the choir becomes a place where people grow—not only as singers, but also as individuals.
Great choirs are remembered not only for how beautifully they sang, but for how well they worked together.
Reflection
What is one habit you can improve that would make you a stronger and more dependable member of your choir?
“Your voice may earn you a place in the choir, but your attitude, discipline, and respect determine the value you bring to the team.” — Victor Adenola
#art #band #bands #choir #churchchoir #commitment #consistency #ImprovedDisciplineAndPatience #Intentionality #musicDirector #retreat #singer #singers #singersgospelSingers #SocialSkills #stagepresence #teamBond #teamwork #Victoradenola -
Choir Etiquette Everyone Should Know
A successful choir is built on more than beautiful voices. It is built on respect, discipline, teamwork, and professionalism. No matter how talented a singer may be, poor attitude and careless habits can weaken the effectiveness of the entire team.
As a choir director and mentor, I’ve learned that the strongest choirs are not necessarily those with the best singers—they are those where every member understands that excellence begins with character.
Here are some essential principles of choir etiquette every chorister should practice:
- Be Punctual
Arriving on time is a sign of respect for your choir director and fellow choir members. It gives you time to settle in, warm up your voice, and prepare mentally for rehearsal or performance.
Punctuality reflects commitment.
2. Come Prepared
Don’t rely solely on rehearsals to learn your part. Practice at home, review recordings, and familiarize yourself with the music before rehearsal.
Prepared singers help rehearsals become productive instead of repetitive.
3. Listen More Than You Speak
When the director is giving instructions, listen attentively. Avoid unnecessary conversations, side comments, or distractions.
Listening carefully reduces mistakes and helps the entire choir move forward together.
4. Respect Every Team Member
Every singer plays an important role, regardless of voice part or experience. Encourage one another, avoid unhealthy competition, and celebrate each other’s growth.
A choir thrives when members build one another up.
5. Receive Correction with Humility
Corrections are meant to improve the choir, not embarrass individuals. Accept feedback positively and use it as an opportunity to grow.
A teachable attitude is one of the greatest strengths a singer can have.
6. Maintain Professionalism on and off the Platform
Your appearance, posture, attitude, and conduct all communicate something about you and your team.
Represent your choir with dignity, humility, and excellence wherever you go.
7. Stay Focused During Performances
Avoid unnecessary movements, conversations, or distractions while on stage. Maintain good posture, follow the conductor, and remain engaged from beginning to end.
Professionalism is often noticed in the smallest details.
8. Protect the Unity of the Choir
Avoid gossip, unnecessary criticism, and unresolved conflicts. Address concerns respectfully and seek solutions that strengthen relationships.
Unity creates an environment where great music can flourish.
Conclusion
Choir etiquette is not about following rules for the sake of rules. It is about creating a culture of respect, excellence, and teamwork where every member can contribute their best.
When each chorister values discipline as much as talent, rehearsals become more productive, performances become more impactful, and the choir becomes a place where people grow—not only as singers, but also as individuals.
Great choirs are remembered not only for how beautifully they sang, but for how well they worked together.
Reflection
What is one habit you can improve that would make you a stronger and more dependable member of your choir?
“Your voice may earn you a place in the choir, but your attitude, discipline, and respect determine the value you bring to the team.” — Victor Adenola
#art #band #bands #choir #churchchoir #commitment #consistency #ImprovedDisciplineAndPatience #Intentionality #musicDirector #retreat #singer #singers #singersgospelSingers #SocialSkills #stagepresence #teamBond #teamwork #Victoradenola -
Sentynel’s and Twelve’s Top Ten(ish) of 2025 By Steel Druhm
Sentynel
It’s been a couple of years since I had to start my AotY thoughts with “oof, what a year,” but oof, what a year. One thing after another piled up for months on end. I had some early success, actually writing reviews, but that left me almost no time to consume any other new music. A slowly escalating personal crisis then led to my neither writing nor consuming any new music for months. I began to fear that I genuinely wouldn’t be able to listen to enough to assemble a list—or that the server would implode at an inopportune time and I’d struggle to fix it. Fortunately, I was able to stay on top of server wobbles, despite the best efforts of endless AI scraper bots.1 A couple of months ago, I started managing new music again, and thus, a list emerged. I am moderately optimistic for 2026, at least on a personal level. (I offer no such optimism for the general state of the world.)
While this hasn’t been a particularly strong year for me, it’s hard to tell if that’s the year’s fault or just mine. My most common gripe has been unevenness: there have been a lot of records—including some I’ve ultimately loved—that have annoyed me through failing to sustain their heights throughout. Nonetheless, everything on my list belongs there. This year’s primary theme appears to be Angry Cello Guy, with a suspicious five entries on my list prominently featuring cellos or other bowed string instruments. Guitars are so 2024. There are multiple records here that are genre-hopping, experimental, and hard to classify. Otherwise, this is a pretty typical year for me, with post-metal heavily represented, several prog-adjacent pieces, and no surprisingly brvtal contenders, despite trying a few. Ah, well, next year.
My year has also kept me from getting to know this year’s intake of new writers as well as I’d like, but I’m sure they’re all lovely people with only somewhat questionable taste. To the brave crew of editors and promo jockeys, you have my thanks for your endless work; to the retiring veterans, please enjoy your sabbaticals without incident; and to the readers, long may you continue resisting the urge to let AI summarise our writing.
#ish. Scardust // Souls – Souls took a lot longer to grow on me than Strangers, and it’s more uneven than its predecessor. But the highs are fabulous. Noa Gruman is still preternaturally good on vocals. If the whole record were as good as the “Touch of Life” suite with her and Ross Jennings, this would be, no exaggeration, #1. Alas, while there are a couple of other bangers (“Unreachable”), much of the rest of Souls just doesn’t impress me, in that awkward sort of way you get when it’s really good and it feels unfair to moan about it too much, but you know they can do so much better.
#10. Jo Quail // Notan – Quail remains one of the most mesmerising live acts I’ve ever seen. Between the strength of her modern classical compositions and the frankly magical way she weaves them together live, armed with only a cello and a loop pedal, her shows are a must-see event. Fittingly, I saw Notan performed live before I heard the recording, but it’s worth it in recorded form too. The nature of loop pedal based composition lends itself to the sort of slow build that makes for really good post-rock/metal. Each piece goes in a pleasingly different direction and experiments with different additions to her sound palette. That she can do them live solo as well is merely the icing on the cake.
#9. Mares of Thrace // The Loss – I wrote most of a review for this album at release,2 but never quite got it over the line. I found it so raw it was hard to listen to. As my difficult period got worse, I just gave up on being able to listen to it at all, and with it any hope of finishing even a woefully late review. Where The Exile was immediately catchy and driving, The Loss’s immediacy is its anguish, and that was all I could hear. Mares of Thrace are already hard to genre pigeonhole, and The Loss is all over the place, spanning sludge, noise, prog, and doom, with trad inflections. I’m actually glad I didn’t manage to get the review done at the time. Coming back to it for list season, I appreciate it a lot more easily than I did at the time. The catchiness and driving energy are still there, but the additional stylistic variety makes it more interesting. The anguish adds weight and impact. The catharsis of the final track is well earned. It’s still a hard listen, but it’s a rewarding one. Who knows, maybe I’ll even get a TYMHM out!3
#8. Black Narcissus // There Lingers One Who’s Long Forgotten – This is just gorgeous. The best post-rock does an awful lot with very little, and Black Narcissus’ unhurried drums and bass do an absolutely astonishing amount. There’s no way something so minimalist and so languid should be able to sustain an hour of music. I cannot emphasise enough how absolutely beautiful There Lingers One Who’s Long Forgotten is, and its hour-long runtime just floats by. This is the epitome of “do one thing and do it well” as a philosophy.
#7. Fallujah // Xenotaph – Fallujah are a long time big name I had begun to appreciate more in the last couple of years, after seeing them live. They still hadn’t really clicked for me recorded, but Xenotaph changed that. Tech death’s curse is sterility, and the warmth of this record lifts Fallujah out of that trap. It’s, paradoxically, at once dreamy and bluntly impactful. The writing is as strong on melody as it is on technicality. It seems slightly redundant to say this about a record that’s on my year-end list, but I really enjoy the immediate experience of listening to Xenotaph. There’s something intensely satisfying about the smoothness: who says heavy music has to be abrasive? The production is still a sticking point, though.
#6. Concrete Age // Awaken the Gods – Awaken the Gods is just a lot of fun. There’s not enough metal drawing on the instruments and composition of folk music from the Caucasus and the steppes. It reminds me a lot of Mongol, but with better and more varied folk instrumentation. There’s a couple of songs that are a bit more straight thrash with folk instruments, which are less exciting, but it doesn’t detract from the rest of the record. It also delivers further proof of my theory that folk metal covers of terrible pop songs are the pinnacle of music. My go-to for when I wanted something to uncomplicatedly bang my head to.
#5. Calva Louise // Edge of the Abyss – Calva Louise are what happens when somebody spots an “all of the above” button under “genre” on the band creation screen and their curiosity gets the better of them. They are what you get if you take the Diablo Swing Orchestra and remove their classical instruments and sense of restraint. Something this absurd could only ever have been terrific or terrible. Obviously, this is terrific. AMG called it wild, unpredictable, and addictive, and it certainly is. They sound like nothing else I’ve ever listened to, and manage to be dangerously catchy on top of it. This hit in the middle of my difficult period, and it was nearly the only thing I listened to for a month. A teeny sense of easing off the gas on the last few songs is the only weakness. Spectacular.
#4. Völur & Cares // Breathless Spirit – Odd, unsettling, pretty, experimental, captivating—Breathless Spirit is a weird album. Violin and viola occupy the sonic space where you’d typically find lead and rhythm guitars. The composition wanders through modern classical, atmoblack, noise, jazz, folk, doom, and more. Actually, the main textural comparison I would draw here is to Hierophant Violent, though Breathless Spirit is far less single-minded in direction. Many of the more ambient sections, and some of the clean vocals, remind me of the build-up stretches of that album, and likewise, there’s some similarity in the crushing crescendos. Just in case you thought you knew where this was going, the other comparisons I’m going to draw are to fellow Canadians The Night Watch and Thrawsunblat. Of everything on the list, this is the one at highest risk of me feeling like I placed it too low in a year’s time—I found it late and it could grow on me further. A truly fascinating record.
#3. Messa // The Spin – While I’ve been a fan of Messa since their first record and through all their stylistic exploration, The Spin really blew me away. Sara Bianchin sounds fantastic, and there’s a wonderful allure to the tone of the rest of the band. Others have commented on The Spin feeling a bit like a collection of songs rather than a cohesive record, which is probably true and probably kept this from the top spot… but the songs are so damn good it’s hard to care that much. I came back to this a few times, even during the worst few months of the year, and had half of it stuck in my head half the time. At one point, I spent several days unable to get the opening riff of the opening track out of my head, and it doesn’t get any less addictive from there. In the last couple of months, I’ve had to actively resist putting it on at times to make sure I give other, less immediate records enough listening time.
#2. Psychonaut // World Maker – Yeah, so I’m a sucker for the kind of atmospheric post/prog metal played by bands like The Ocean or Dvne. Here is this year’s winner in that space. I’ve wanted to like Psychonaut in the past more than I actually have, but World Maker finally clicked for me in a big way. It’s intricate, catchy, in places techy, in others psychedelic. The songs unfold in interesting ways, and listening to it feels like exploring. From the buildup of the opening track, I knew this would be exactly what I wanted in this sort of music. And as Ken wrote in his review, the more personal dimension to World Maker’s themes elevates it (with some similarities to Pelagial’s place as the best Ocean album). A record that rewards time and attention.
#1. Shepherds of Cassini // In Thrall to Heresy – In Thrall to Heresy’s victory here was not exactly inevitable when I reviewed it back in February, but it was certainly likely. The glorious return of a niche band I loved and thought lost? It would have taken something spectacular to upset it. I listened to this all year, through the difficult period, and kept on loving it. For all that retro prog is a bit of an oxymoron, 00s-early 10s prog is one of my favorite eras of music. (There was a lot of rabbling in the comments about me not having explicitly compared them to Riverside and Tool, so to be explicit, if you liked Riverside through to SoNGS, you’ll like this. They’re far less pretentious than Tool.) In Thrall is a fresh enough take to feel like progression, not a throwback. Its violin leads add variety (as well as claiming the Angry Cello Guy crown for the year). Shepherds’ songwriting has matured in the last decade. Their instruments sound pleasingly chunky. A post-y twist presses additional musical buttons for me. One could only make this more laser-targeted at my specific musical niche by somehow adding industrial bluegrass.4 Don’t make me wait 10 years for the next record, please.
Honorable Mentions:
- 1914 // Viribus Unitis – Brutal and moving, this is some really good blackened death/doom. It’s not as good as Die Urkatastrophe, though—sorry, 1914 fans.
- Aephanemer // Utopie – The spectre of AMG’s law of diminishing recordings begins to haunt Aephanemer, for what is Utopie if not Aephanemer sounding like Aephanemer? It’s damn good, though.
- Ellereve // Umbra – Sad-girl post-metal? Yes please.
- Howling Giant // Crucible & Ruin – Just some really good stoner/psych.
- Net-Ruiner // Prototype – The synthwave/metal cross ends up being a little too much of a gimmick to land a proper list spot, but nonetheless an absolute blast.
- Raphael Weinroth-Browne // Lifeblood – I know I made an Angry Cello Guy joke up there, but it turns out you can, in fact, have too much cello. Weinroth-Browne’s multi-layered modern classical composition (in both senses) of cellos is always impressive and regularly emotive. Had Lifeblood been edited down to keep, say, the best 40 minutes of its current 60, this would have been up there in my list somewhere. Alas.
- Various Artists // KPop Demon Hunters – Relegated to HMs because this isn’t an album I like so much as it’s an album containing six songs I absolutely adore, and six others, but fuck me, the main cast songs (less “Soda Pop”) are bangers.
Songs o’ the Year:
- Calva Louise – “Impeccable”
- Concrete Age – “Boro Boro”
- Howling Giant – “Scepter and Scythe”
- HUNTR/X – “Golden”
- HUNTR/X – “Takedown”
- HUNTR/X – “What It Sounds Like”
- Messa – “Fire on the Roof”
- Saja Boys – “Your Idol”
- Scardust – “Touch of Life” suite
- Shepherds of Cassini – “Abyss”
- Tiktaalika – “Fault Lines:
Twelve
I am so behind on writing this. Behind on writing in general, really, but I’m writing this introduction very late by Angry Metal Standards®.5 Over the year, my writing for this blog waned notably, but I’m still very proud of my output this year, and discovered some delightful gems thanks to this blog and my privileged position to write for it. As is traditional, I want to extend my sincere thanks to my co-writers for their fantastic camaraderie and to the editors who allow me to keep writing here, probably against their better judgment. Everything changes all the time, but feeling right at home here stays the same.
Last year I claimed that, by any measure, 2024 was the worst year of my life, and I’m happy to say that remains true this year. Interestingly, however, I listened to much less music, and, more to the point, liked less music. In the past few months, I’ve been asking my co-writers here to recommend the music they think will top their own lists, and I just… kept not liking them. For some reason, almost nothing has been sticking musically. That’s not a comment on my colleagues’ tastes, of course—the writers here have an astounding talent for finding some of the best music there is. But I’ve been struggling to keep up.
So this year, I’m keeping things simple and writing about the twelve albums I liked best in 2025. Occasionally, when we talk about our end-of-year listings, there’s an idea that some albums need to be of a certain quality to be “worthy” of a top-ten (or top-top) spot, but if I start thinking that way, this list is never going to materialize. So I’ve gone with my gut and am now going to talk your ear off about the music I personally liked the most.
All of which is to say, I think my list is weird this year. I did my best! And I’m happy with it. But it’s weird.
Thanks for reading my nonsense in 2025—it really does mean a lot. Let’s all do it again next year!
#ish. Dawnwalker // The Between – A single-song album is such an ambitious undertaking, and I really can’t express enough how impressive it is that “The Between” feels like an actual half-hour song. Dawnwalker is so impressive on The Between, and the composition is truly a work of art. It’s grown on me since I reviewed it in October, and I just have to highlight the amazing songwriting from Mark Norgate and Dawnwalker before I dive into my list proper.
#10. Calva Louise // Edge of the Abyss – Let the weird begin! Edge of the Abyss is not something I thought for a second would make this list when Angry Metal Guy wrote about it, but it’s wormed its way into my head and heart. Deceptively catchy, a lot cleverer than it first appears, and filled to the brim with energy, Edge of the Abyss is a fun, memorable, and surprisingly relatable slice of… some kind of metal. I really don’t know how to categorize it, and I’m not sure how to get it out of my head either. Great album.
#9. Nechochwen // Spelewithiipi – Continuing with what may be another unusual pick, Nechochwen’s Spelewithiipi is not something I considered for this list straightaway. I have to admit, though, it has been a comforting listen that I’ve returned to often over the course of the year. It is well-composed, deceptively complex, and easy to spin again and again. On days I’ve felt low, there’s been a magic in Spelewithiipi that does wonders in keeping me well.
# 8. Völur & Cares //Breathless Spirit – Breathless Spirit is such an impressive album. For one thing, you’d never, ever guess there isn’t a lead guitar, despite the fact that Bates’s violin is a significant part of Völur’s unique character and spirit. As doom metal, Breathless Spirit dominates; it is powerful, mournful, wry, and cathartic. It’s a truly fascinating display of music, one that reveals new character every time you listen.
#7. Falling Leaves // The Silence That Binds Us – Speaking of doom metal, The Silence That Binds Us tells us that sometimes taking a break can be a good thing. It’s been thirteen years since Falling Leaves released their debut, and their sophomore feels like it had been simmering for a while. Expert compositions, passionate performances, and a huge atmosphere contribute to what I thought was “the” doom metal release of the year. There is so much care and attention in The Silence That Binds Us, so much feeling from every player, so much love in the production and master—even the cover art is gorgeous.
#6. Raphael Weinroth-Browne // Lifeblood – I didn’t expect Lifeblood to creep its way up here the way it has, but I’ve been listening to it more and more lately and realized I actually like it a lot more than a lot of other stuff. Raphael Weinroth-Browne’s compositions are stunning, and the more you listen to them, the better they get. For an instrumental, non-metal project, Lifeblood conveys so much meaning, so much emotion, and feels heavy for what it is. It’s a powerful work and a lovely one too—exactly what we’ve come to expect from as talented a cellist and composer as Weinroth-Browne.
#5. Aephanemer // Utopie – The direction Aephanemer’s music has taken since they first appeared on this blog with Prokopton is fascinating. Each release since has been a touch less aggressive and notably broader in terms of its composition and ambition. Utopie, I feel, balances these nuances the best—it’s an epic, sprawling album that reaches high and grasps onto something exciting. There is a level of care and attention to detail to Utopie that rewards repeat listens, and I still feel like I’m getting more and more into it as I listen. Who knows, maybe I’ll regret this “low” placement before long; this one’s a grower.
#4. Amorphis // Borderlands – Amorphis don’t need much introduction at this point, but lately I haven’t been very invested in their releases. It can be tough, I imagine, being such an iconic band with such a recognizable sound. But Borderlands feels fresh to me; an old formula done right, modernized reasonably enough to stand out, and with the gusto of a much newer band. Incidentally, this was also the first CD I’ve purchased in years—an impromptu grab at a record store I’d forgotten existed—and the bonus tracks therein are amazing additions (“Rowan and the Cloud” is a delightful closer, more so, I would argue, than “Despair”). It’s nice to be enamored by Amorphis again. They seem to still know what they’re doing.
#3. Saor // Amidst the Ruins – I’ve slept on Saor in the past, but Amidst the Ruins is an amazing album. Rarely is black metal—atmospheric black metal, no less—so impassioned, but I’ve never wanted to visit Scotland so much as the first time I heard “Rebirth” at the end of my first listen. It’s hard to quantify what makes Amidst the Ruins such a special record, really. The blend of black metal and folk metal isn’t new, nor is the style in which Marshall writes so well. But listening to Saor, you can’t help but feel his pride and awe for a homeland you may never have seen yourself. Amidst the Ruins crept its way into my rotations again and again throughout the year, and it’s been the most pleasant musical surprise of 2025 for me by far.
#2. Apocalypse Orchestra // A Plague Upon Thee – I really thought I’d give Apocalypse Orchestra my top spot, but admittedly, I thought that before I’d even heard it. The way these guys blend medieval themes with folk, doom, and metal is genuinely fascinating and incredibly well done. Add to the list that they perform thorough research and the music is educational on top of it all—what’s not to love? A Plague Upon Thee was my most-anticipated album of the year, and Apocalypse Orchestra really delivered, with sweeping epics telling takes of historic darkness and endearing humanity. Everything from the bagpipes to the choirs sounds amazing, and while I did have a couple of reservations initially, the simple truth is that this music is so well up my alley—and is performed so well too—that I was always bound to love it enough for this list. I can only hope to uncover more music as wonderfully niche as this again.
#1. 1914 // Viribus Unitis – I have not listened to every item of music released in 2025, but I still think I can say that none could be more powerful than 1914’s Viribus Unitis. I listened to nothing heavier, nothing more memorable, and nothing so relevant as 1914’s story of a Ukrainian soldier caught up in the mania of the First World War. From battle-frenzied bloodlust to heartbreaking captivity, his story follows 1914’s relentless message of the horrors of war. In the past, I’ve praised 1914 for the honesty in their bleak outlook on their namesake war, and Viribus Unitis could not have done a better job in following that idea. The songs range from brutal to cathartic; every guest musician elevates their song, and the choir is a brilliant way to balance trademark heaviness with emotional impact. Viribus Unitis is the most impactful album I’ve listened to in a long, long time, and I admire every musician involved for their part in that. Viribus Unitis was my top album for 2025 the moment I finished the first spin.
Honorable Mention
- Marko Hietala // Roses from the Deep – I’ve looked back at my review of Roses from the Deep a couple of times since writing and wondered if my personal admiration for Hietala’s career made me over-excited to review it. Is it possible I rated it highly simply because it’s such a fascinating culmination of the career of a musician I like? Either way, I’m keeping to the course—this was a fun listen in a year where I didn’t find so many upbeat albums to enjoy, and I keep coming back to it in bits and pieces depending on my mood; it’s a diverse exploration, and you can tell everyone had a good fun creating it.
Song of the Year
This was a hard one. There are so many powerful, emotional songs littered throughout this list—especially on Viribus Unitis, where the passion is particularly raw. But in keeping with the theme of what I personally found most affecting, I just keep coming back to this little gem on Autumn Tears’s latest. “Martyrdom – Catharsis (Where Gods Go to Die)” has a strangely compelling quality that kept me coming back again and again since I first reviewed Crown of the Clairvoyant. The singing, choirs, organ—really, everything about the composition is mesmerizing. I don’t imagine a lot of people will have this one on their year-end playlists. It’s a niche, quiet little song, but it’s wormed its way into my heart and speaks strongly to how I’ve felt about 2025 in a way I can’t quite describe.
Crown of the Clairvoyant by Autumn Tears
#1914 #2025 #Aephanemer #Amorphis #ApocalypseOrchestra #BlackNarcissus #CalvaLouise #ConcreteAge #Dawnwalker #Ellereve #FallingLeaves #Fallujah #HowlingGiant #JoQuail #Lists #MaresOfThrace #MarkoHietala #Messa #Nechochwen #NetRuiner #Psychonaut #RaphaelWeinrothBrowne #Saor #Scardust #SentynelSAndTwelveSTopTenIshOf2025 #ShepherdsOfCassini #VölurCares