Rutger Zuydervelt - House of Strength (2025)

After Kites, Sister, and Mask, House of Strength marked the fourth collaboration between choreographer/dancer Roshanak Morrowatian and composer Rutger Zuydervelt. The performance — and, by extension, the music — has a strong ritualistic quality and can be seen as an inclusive celebration of both spiritual and physical strength.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Iranian percussion as well as contemporary club music, the score bridges old and new worlds, shifting between high-energy beats, brooding soundscapes, and glitchy abstractions.

In addition to sampling the performers as a choir (recorded during rehearsals), two tracks feature distinct guest contributions: Reza Mirabi's overtone vocals on 'Arise' and Sjaan Flikweert's spoken word on 'Voorbij.'

The set closes with a pair of tracks that didn't appear in the live performance but are well worth hearing. The album’s conclusion uplifts the spirit—making it hard to resist pressing play again.