Aled Jones & Russell Watson - In Harmony (2018)

Aled Jones and Russell Watson, two of the world's greatest classical voices, come together to release their debut album In Harmony, via BMG. Having moved in the same circles for nearly 20 years and since becoming firm friends; Aled approached Russell to collaborate for his next big project. The album features a wealth of well-loved hymns, arias, and popular songs – ranging from stunning arrangements of "Ave Maria" – to more modern classics such as “You Raise Me Up”. Ian Tilley, who has worked with some of the biggest names in classical-crossover including Hayley Westenra, platinum selling All Angels, The Choirboys and Libera, produced the record. Internationally renowned composer Sir Karl Jenkins wrote one of the tracks “Bright Horizons” especially for Aled and Russell. “Where Have All The Flowers Gone/Here’s To The Heroes”, is a timely tribute celebrating the centenary of the end of the First World War and the 70th anniversary of the NHS – to the men and woman who inspired a generation. Aled says, “We loved the idea of honouring service men and women through our music - as well as our everyday heroes such as doctors and nurses.” In Harmony is the end product from two artists born with a predestined compatibility. Here, both Aled and Russell have embraced the spirit of collaboration and friendship, whilst each bringing their own sky-high level of talent to the table to create this beautiful record. Of the album, Russell says, “What I particularly like is the way that it is not just a collaboration as such where I sing a verse, Aled sings a verse and everybody joins in on the chorus. It’s been really cleverly written and arranged so that our voices blend really well.” Aled adds, “This album has created a real excitement for me - singing songs I don’t normally perform on my own. Recording 'Volare' with Russell was a hoot!" Their instinctive understanding of one another is easy to hear. From the grandiose “Volare” a creative rendition of Dean Martin’s jazzy number, to closer “Silent Night”, the album’s heartfelt closer combining ethereal tones of the flute with the rich baritone vocals of Aled and tenor vocals of Russell – the pair’s natural chemistry exudes throughout, complimented by force and grandeur of the orchestra.