Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Witness a behind the scenes look into the making of DEEP RIVER, a vibrant selection of 21 African American spirituals interpreted by countertenor Michael Walker II and Old Music consort Alchymy Viols.
One might be tempted to think that there is no crossover in music that hasn’t been done yet; and thankfully, one would be mistaken. A curious collaboration? Not at all, according to director Philip Spray. The viol consort’s historical purpose was to arrange popular tunes of its day; so it appeared only logical to try this setup on America’s first folk songs. It worked. Additional harmonies are provided by a distinctly anachronistic grand harp, and counterpoint by a small field pump organ. The effect is stunning: a music so utterly, distinctly American, one wonders why this hasn’t been done before.
DEEP RIVER is now available for listen on all major streaming platforms. To learn more please visit the following link: navonarecords.com/catalog/nv6650
Witness a behind the scenes look into the making of DEEP RIVER, a vibrant selection of 21 African American spirituals interpreted by countertenor Michael Walker II and Old Music consort Alchymy Viols.
One might be tempted to think that there is no crossover in music that hasn’t been done yet; and thankfully, one would be mistaken. A curious collaboration? Not at all, according to director Philip Spray. The viol consort’s historical purpose was to arrange popular tunes of its day; so it appeared only logical to try this setup on America’s first folk songs. It worked. Additional harmonies are provided by a distinctly anachronistic grand harp, and counterpoint by a small field pump organ. The effect is stunning: a music so utterly, distinctly American, one wonders why this hasn’t been done before.
DEEP RIVER is now available for listen on all major streaming platforms. To learn more please visit the following link: navonarecords.com/catalog/nv6650
