Review by Aaron Ochs

Jāzeps Osmanis' album Rakstnieku Balsis is a masterpiece of Latvian poetry put to music. The album features 12 tracks, each of which is a musical interpretation of a classic Latvian poem. The album showcases Osmanis' exceptional talent as a composer and arranger, as well as his deep appreciation for the country's literary heritage.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Tālākais ceļš" (The Longest Road), featuring a soaring vocal performance by Inga Māra Zīberga. Other standout tracks include "Māte zeme" (Mother Earth), a stirring ode to Latvia's natural beauty sung by Raimonds Macats, and "Tālava" (The Faraway Land), a melancholy ballad about the search for home featuring the soulful voice of Andris Ērglis.

Throughout the album, Osmanis' arrangements are lush and evocative, with strings, horns, and percussion weaving in and out of each song to create a rich tapestry of sound. His compositions are both faithful to the original poems and innovative in their musical interpretation, making each track a unique and captivating listening experience.

Summary by Aaron Ochs

Rakstnieku Balsis is a must-listen for anyone interested in Latvian music or literature. It is a stunning tribute to the country's poetic tradition and a testament to Osmanis' talent as a composer and arranger. Highly recommended.