"Aria 51" by Divine Hand Ensemble: A Sci-Fi Musical Journey That Defies Genres
The release of Divine Hand Ensemble’s album “Aria 51” has been met with enthusiastic acclaim from critics and listeners alike. This unique project, which commemorates the 100th anniversary of the theremin, showcases ethereal reinterpretations of classics by artists such as Frank Zappa, David Bowie, and The Specials.
AllMusic praised the album for its innovative approach and the ensemble’s ability to blend classical instruments with the distinctive sounds of the theremin. The review highlighted the group’s versatility and Mano Divina’s exceptional theremin performance, noting that the album “pushes the boundaries of the crossover genre” (AllMusic).
FVMusicBlog described “Aria 51” as a “superb release” that fills the sonic spectrum with vivid color and addictive melodies. Tracks like “Peaches en Regalia” and “The Man Who Sold the World” were particularly noted for their spellbinding arrangements and emotional depth. The review also mentioned the poignant cover of “Ghost Town,” which serves as an unwitting tribute to the recently passed frontman of The Specials, Terry Hall (FVMusicBlog.com).
Metro Philadelphia provided insight into Mano Divina’s journey with the theremin and his artistic vision behind “Aria 51.” The album is seen as a “sci-fi musical journey” that combines elements of opera, modern classical music, and 1950s horror film soundtracks. Mano Divina’s mastery of the theremin creates a haunting, operatic voice that adds a unique dimension to the ensemble’s performances (Metro Philadelphia).
Listeners can find “Aria 51” on various platforms, including the official Label 51 Recordings shop at label51recordings.shop. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the innovative fusion of classical and contemporary music, celebrating a century of the theremin with the Divine Hand Ensemble’s extraordinary artistry.
