It is not fair to just say that Tigran Hamasyan has released a new song. The latest single from this Armenian composer, “The Kingdom,” transcends the boundaries of a typical song. It also functions as the gateway to an ambitious transmedia project inspired by the Armenian legend “The Bird of A Thousand Voices” (Hazaran Blbul). Tigran Hamasyan himself describes it as a prelude, offering a taste of the grand narrative that will unfold across various artistic mediums.

The song serves as the introduction to a kingdom ruled by a benevolent king. Prosperity reigns, with a magnificent garden overflowing with the world’s bounty. However, this idyllic existence is shattered by an old woman’s curse, causing the garden to wither and transforming the people into heartless beasts. The only hope for salvation lies in the mystical song of the titular bird. This mythical creature possesses a thousand voices, each imbued with a divine quality. To find this legendary bird, a dangerous journey awaits – the “path of no return” full of demons and temptations.

Photography by Vahan Stepanyan

The composer’s artistic vision for “The Bird of A Thousand Voices” lies at the intersection of tradition and innovation. “The Kingdom” itself exemplifies this philosophy. The composition seamlessly blends the rich heritage of Armenian folk music with the driving energy and layered textures of progressive rock. The traditional elements provide a foundation of authenticity, grounding the listener in the cultural context of the story. At the same time, the synthesizer flourishes and intricate arrangements propel the track forward with a distinctly modern flair. This fusion creates a soundscape that is both familiar and fresh, drawing the listener into the fantastical world while offering a unique sonic experience.

During the epic track, Tigran Hamasyan infuses the music with the essence of the fantastical tale. The “fast-cascading cosmic rays of arpeggios,” as the artist describes it, in the main melody embody the bird’s otherworldly essence. This sonic motif not only establishes the fantastical nature of the creature but also sets the tone for the hero’s quest within the accompanying interactive game. The cascading melody reflects the hero’s determination and the sacrifices he must make to bring back the bird and restore his father’s kingdom. The song, along with the accompanying game accessible at www.bird1000.com, serve as an entry point into Hamasyan’s immersive world.

In June 2024, the story will culminate with the world premiere of Tigran Hamasyan’s much-anticipated new conceptual album “The Bird of A Thousand Voices” at the Holland Festival. This transmedia music theater piece promises a truly immersive experience.  Imagine an intriguing light installation with shadow play, digitally programmed vocals that embody the mythical bird’s thousand voices, and live music by Hamasyan himself. The performance will be further enriched by a bilingual Armenian-English libretto, ensuring the narrative remains accessible to a wider audience. 

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