Album Notes

MEDIAEVAL BAEBES
‘MIRABILIS’
RELEASE DATE: 18TH JULY, 2005
THE INIMITABLE, CHART-TOPPING MEDIAEVAL BAEBES RETURN WITH ‘MIRABILIS’, THEIR MOST EXQUISITE AND ACCOMPLISHED ALBUM TO DATE

The Mediaeval Baebes have established a legendary reputation for themselves by reviving ancient text and song and turning historical fantasy into reality for the pleasure of a modern audience. Their first album, ‘Salva Nos’, released in 1997 was certified Silver within weeks of release and was Virgin Classics’ fastest selling debut album. The band’s 1998 follow-up, ‘Worldes Bylsse’, blazed into the Classical Charts at No.1 to widespread, critical acclaim. This July sees them return with a brand new studio album, ‘Mirabilis’, which is already considered by some to be their finest work to date.

Recognised as the originators of a new breed of acts responsible for spicing up the classical world, the Mediaeval Baebes have always pushed the boundaries in terms of attitude and musical approach. A provocative collective of beautiful maidens, the Baebes comprise of eight young women – vocalists, composers and instrumentalists - from all corners of the globe, who delight in their reputation for wantonness whilst singing songs from an age of innocence.

Despite the odd suggestion that the sex might take precedence over the song, it’s the vocal ability and compositional capabilities of this ensemble that have ensured their longevity. The Baebes arrange traditional mediaeval material but the majority of their songs are mediaeval poems that they have set to their own musical scores, evoking the fervour and fascinations of a people past whilst stirring up audiences present.

‘Mirabilis’, their fifth studio album, sees the band build upon their unique sound by honing complex, vocal arrangements and inspirational compositions that are complemented by a polished, filmic production. Mirabilis is a Latin word, of Pagan origin, that was used in mediaeval times to describe a supernatural force on the fringes of this world. It’s a word that describes their latest work perfectly. Where previous albums explored man’s relationship with mortality and matched this with an appropriately raw and earthy sound; ‘Mirabilis’ develops the dramatic theme of enchantment and pairs it with crisp, ethereal harmonies and the menacing sounds of the underworld. According to Katherine Blake, the band’s founder and musical director: “’Mirabilis’ is our most sophisticated album yet. It’s very multi-layered: full of rich, luxurious textures and evocative sounds, and illustrates how reality, history and myth intertwine.”

Written over the course of 2004 and recorded in London’s Konk Studios at the close of that year, ‘Mirabilis’ features 18 tracks sung in a vast array of languages ranging from Latin and Middle English to Cornish and 18th Century Swedish. The record also features a variety of instruments including recorders, dulcimer and hurdy-gurdy, as well as an Indian harmonium, Arabian Ude and Turkish Saz. ‘Mirabilis’ has been superbly produced by Dru Masters (Bond, Holly Valance) who brings a commercial gloss to the album whilst retaining the band’s trademark mediaeval sensibilities. Both he and the band are delighted with the results of the collaboration. "Working with artists as unique as the Mediaeval Baebes was a great opportunity for me, and I think I have made my best record yet," comments Masters.


With the imminent release of ‘Mirabilis’, demand for the Mediaeval Baebes is as strong as ever with UK performances lined up throughout the summer including Leeds Castle on 15th July and Joust Mediaeval Festival, Berkley Castle, on 23rd & 24th and 30th & 31st July. The Baebes will satisfy their ardent international following with a North American tour, commencing this autumn.

As their name promises, the Mediaeval Baebes are an aural and visual sensation. Allow yourself to be transfixed by the very sight of them, or simply close your eyes and let their voices transport you to a world far more romantic than our own.
www.mediaevalbaebes.com

“…a remarkable twelve piece.” The Times; “…bright, funny, gutsy women – good looking too… as close to heaven as you can get.” The Express; “…mediaeval poetry and early music in upbeat anglo sex-on-legs style.” Classic FM Magazine; “…the raunchiest bunch of songbirds ever.” News Of The World; “…the Baebes know how to take a middle ages ditty and make it rock.” What’s On.