Tigran Hamasyan – “The Kingdom” [Song Review]

Tigran Hamasyan has unveiled the first single, “The Kingdom,” from his forthcoming concept album, The Bird of a Thousand Voices. The album is inspired by an ancient Armenian tale in which a hero travels into unseen realms to find and bring back a mythical bird – whose divine song will awaken people again and bring harmony to the world.

The Bird of a Thousand Voices tells the tale of a kingdom ruled by a benevolent king, whose beautiful garden withers, and the people of his kingdom becoming like beasts because of an old woman’s curse. Only the song of the mystical bird can save the garden and people. Yet finding the bird means someone must travel the ‘path of no return,’ facing demons and temptations.

“The Kingdom” is also an interactive game that may be played on smartphones and desktops. The Bird of a Thousand Voices will premiere at the Holland Festival in June 2024.

Hamasyan’s music blends elements of jazz, crossover classical, prog-rock, electronic, vocal, and Armenian folk music.

Opening on cascading tones riding slashing percussion, “The Kingdom” reveals complex layers of intermingling synths. The melody shifts to darker colours that aren’t quite so feverish and, after a sparkling, whooshing bridge, reverts to intense, tempestuous textures.

Highlighted by a breakneck rhythm and lavish synths, “The Kingdom” is a prog-rock-like composition of surging energy.

Tigran Hamasyan, photo by Vahan Stepanyan

Run Time: 3:37
Release Date: April 26, 2024
Record Label: Independent