BIS present a disc of works by the once-described “modern shaman” Veljo Tormis

His work is chiefly composed for a cappella choir, using ancient chants and magic charms. Much of his output mirrors his steadfast devotion to an Estonian identity in the face of Soviet occupation, with some illustrating his political leanings.

The disc closes on a more lyrical and personal note – another strand in the composer’s rich repertoire.

The works are performed by Cecilia Rydinger Alin and Orphei Drängar, described in Choir and Organ as ‘a tremendous choir, with superb technique and an immense, expressive range’.