Steven Chesne’s “Descendants (in 79 Languages)” is a profound exploration of human interconnectedness, going beyond limits of genre with its innovative blend of World-Beat, Electronica, New Age, and Neo-Classic styles.
In “Descendants (in 79 Languages),” Chesne features vocalists from around the world singing the phrase “we are the descendants” – in 79 different tongues. All of these languages, including English rap verses, are carefully brought together into a symphonic opus, using complex counterpoint like a Bach fugue, but carrying a real spiritual depth.
At its core lies Chesne’s inspiration:
“While the world struggles with fear and division, we must remind ourselves that we all descend from a common source—a unifying thread that binds us all together.”
This universal theme is brought to life in each track, where expressive performances and seamless production blend these vastly diverse tracks. “Descendants” navigates a broad emotional spectrum, shifting from dynamic, joyous rhythms to more serene contemplations, from exhilarating crescendos to deep, spiritual waves, all while maintaining a cohesive narrative.
The album features a stellar lineup of vocalists, including platinum rap artist Fredo Bang, Uyanga Bold (renowned for Disney’s “Mulan” and Marvel’s “Spiderman”), Christina Hals (featured in “Frozen” 1 & 2 and “League of Legends”), Chhom Nimol (frontwoman of “Peter Gabriel presents Dengue Fever”), members of the Los Angeles Master Chorale, two-time Grammy winner Hila Plitmann, and dozens of indigenous and folk artists.
Their performances, in languages spanning Swahili to Japanese, blend harmoniously to create a brilliant mosaic of sound that celebrates the interwoven nature of humanity in a strikingly original way.
All 79 languages were carefully integrated into songs that are each distinctly unique musical compositions. The album’s passionately sculpted production, assisted in the final mix by 25-time Grammy nominee, Richard Furch, ensured that each track resonated with depths of emotion and authenticity.
Beyond the musical brilliance of this album, “Descendants (in 79 Languages)” serves as a profound nod to our interconnected global community and the enduring bonds that unite us through our shared ancestral heritage.
“Descendants (in 79 languages)” was produced by Steven and Diane Chesne, and mixed by Richard Furch, Steven Chesne and Snipe Young.
For Steven Chesne, whose illustrious career spans over four decades—from scoring primetime television to visionary compositions like “Sapient: A Cantata for Peace”—this new album represents a pinnacle of creative exploration.
Chesne’s musical journey is rooted in a lifelong study of universal human connections across cultures. From early immersion in comparative religion and mythology to a deep appreciation for global music traditions, his compositions reflect a rich variety of influences. His pioneering symphonic works include the world’s first multi-track digital recordings of extended symphonies, which garnered early acclaim on NPR and in prestigious music publications in the 1990s.
With over 300 prime-time TV show scores and accolades from the International Film Music Critics’ Association, Steven expanded into art-house films, earning awards for his scores. His recent focus returned to art music with “Sapient: A Cantata of Peace,” exploring themes of unity and peace across world traditions.
With this latest project, “Descendants (in 79 Languages),” Chesne blends diverse voices seamlessly, continuing his mission to promote global harmony through transformative musical expression.
Connect with Steven Chesne at www.chezworks.com
