The internationally acclaimed 12 Ensemble return with their third studio album Metamorphosis, recorded at the iconic Abbey Rd studios.
From the divine nature of transformation to alien visions of new worlds and rebirth, the conductor-less 12 Ensemble explore Renaissance hymn reborn as futuristic prayer, ancient Japanese ritual, otherworldly operatic arias and a monumental elegy that sees the ensemble harness its biggest forces to date.
This deluxe double-vinyl package has been created in collaboration with celebrated Art Director Ben Ditto, featuring photography by Greta Ilieva. Recorded in London’s Abbey Road Studio 2, this high-quality edition is pressed in France from a bespoke lacquer cut by Cicely Balston. Presented in a double gatefold package with gold-foil embossing and UV gloss to the front cover, the record includes a foreword by author Charlie Fox and liner notes by Hugh Morris. The luxury 300g cover contains two slide-out double-sided record sleeves featuring further artwork from the series, and a double-sided foldout poster on 150g fine-art paper.
The 12 Ensemble is a pioneering un-conducted string orchestra.
Evolving from a close-knit group of like-minded musicians into one of Europe's leading string orchestras, the 12 Ensemble has developed a critically-acclaimed reputation as an influential collective, reaching audiences worldwide with powerful musical experiences.
Flexible in size but always playing without conductor, the core formation brings together twelve of London’s leading string players. Formed in 2012 by Artistic Directors Eloisa-Fleur Thom & Max Ruisi, the 12 Ensemble has become synonymous with innovative programming, combining their dedication to core- classical repertoire with exceptional new commissions and collaborators from a broad range of artistic spheres.
Artists-in-Residence at the Wigmore Hall for 2023-25, the 12 Ensemble are in- demand internationally, performing at leading venues including the Barbican, Royal Albert Hall, Berlin Philharmonie and Elbphilharmonie. The group have also made multiple appearances at leading festivals worldwide, including performing Schubert’s Death & the Maiden at the BBC Proms plus invitations to the U.S and South Korea, as well as multiple broadcasts on BBC TV, Sky Arts and international radio.