Review: ‘Coventry Carol/What Child is This’ By Allan Palacios Chan

Khushboo Malhotra

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Philippine-born American tenor Allan Palacios Chan’s latest Christmas single blends tradition with innovation, dissolving boundaries one harmony at a time.

Allan Palacios Chan‘s latest Christmas single, ‘Coventry Carol/What Child is This’, was released on 21 November via Ars Nova Records. Since then, the song has enchanted audiences, heralding a season infused with joy and introspection.

Celebrated for his captivating tenor voice and innovative musical approach, Chan’s latest spellbinding composition marks the pinnacle of his transformative crossover journey. This is a testament to his unmatched skill in blending ancient narratives with the vibrant pulse of contemporary melodies.

“It is a tapestry woven with diverse musical influences and remarkable achievements”

The single invites listeners on a transcendent musical journey. It promises an experience that goes beyond the confines of time and genre. Yet, Chan’s discography is far more than just a festive melody. It is a tapestry woven with diverse musical influences and remarkable achievements.

Let’s immerse ourselves in the holiday spirit and uncover the brilliance of this artist.

The Medley’s Essence

‘Coventry Carol/What Child is This’ is a poignant amalgamation of the two songs ‘Coventry Carol’ and ‘What Child is This’. However, the song transcends the confluence of melodies. Chan’s tenor voice, an instrument of unparalleled emotive depth, breathes life into centuries-old narratives. It intertwines haunting historical echoes with the tender embrace of timeless melodies.

“The medley’s lyrical journey navigates through the haunting horrors of King Herod’s era”

His vocal prowess, resonating with the gravitas of tradition, imbues each note with a profound emotional essence. The medley’s lyrical journey navigates the horrors of King Herod’s era, before seamlessly transitioning into the gentle, timeless embrace of  ‘What Child is This’.

An Inspired Collaboration

Chan’s artistic odyssey gained momentum during a philanthropic tour in the Philippines in 2022. This was a turning point that led to collaborations with industry stalwarts such as acclaimed arranger Leonardo de Bernardini (‘Leo Z’) and Grammy Award-winning mastering engineer Eric Boulanger.

“A composition that soothes the hearts and minds of listeners”

The result is lush sonic landscape, crafted at the Village Studios in LA in collaboration with Boulanger. This also involved a chamber orchestra, boasting graduates from esteemed institutions such as Juilliard and Curtis. It is here that a deliberate fusion of antique instruments—voice, violin, viola, cello, bass, Flauto Dolce, harp, piano, and lute—melded seamlessly with modern finesse, creating a composition that soothes the hearts and minds of listeners.

Visual Symphony

Directed by Landon Donoho at The Mosaic Mansion, the song’s music video serves as a visual symphony. Echoing the song’s historical depth and modern narrative, the video enhances the emotional impact of the medley.

“It is an immersive journey through time and emotion”

The juxtaposition of historical elements with contemporary visuals creates a captivating narrative, enriching the listener’s experience. Through attention to detail and a visual language that mirrors the medley’s emotional essence, the music video elevates Chan’s creation. It is an immersive journey through time and emotion.

 A Glimpse into the Future

Chan’s upcoming crossover album promises reimagined classics, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend genres. Beyond the allure of his voice, Chan’s musical repertoire spans a kaleidoscope of genres, effortlessly embracing classical opera, contemporary melodies, and the evocative strains of traditional Kundiman.

“His collaborative spirit also shines through his work”

This versatility isn’t just a testament to his adaptability, but also a bridge that connects him with audiences from different cultural backgrounds. His collaborative spirit also shines through his work.

Chan’s stellar performances at esteemed venues such as the Kennedy Centre and Carnegie Hall stand as testaments to his talent and the recognition he has garnered within the music industry. Chan’s ability to deliver stirring performances, whether in intimate settings or grand concert halls, cements his reputation as a captivating and versatile performer.

Philanthropic Engagement

Beyond his musical endeavours, Chan’s commitment to philanthropy shines through his involvement in initiatives that use music as a tool for positive change. Whether through charity concerts or community outreach programmes, his dedication to social justice showcases a deeper dimension to his artistry—one that seeks to uplift and inspire through the power of music.

More Than Just Music

Chan’s artistic impact exceeds mere musical pleasure. His work is a tapestry woven with emotion, transcending cultural confines and reaching into the very soul of his audience. With each note and every performance, Chan’s musical journey exudes technical brilliance coupled with an unwavering devotion to the transformative essence of music. His gift lies not only in performing music, but also in creating an experience that spans generations and speaks universally to the human spirit.

This fusion of tradition and innovation, evident in his collaborations and diverse repertoire, speaks volumes about an artist dedicated to creating a timeless resonance in the hearts of listeners.

READ MORE:

• SINGLE REVIEW: ‘AUTOPILOT’ BY A-ZAL

• ALBUM REVIEW: AUTUMN VARIATIONS BY ED SHEERAN

• ‘HOUDINI’ BY DUA LIPA: REVIEW

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Featured image courtesy of Alev Takil via Unsplash. No changes were made to this image. Image license found here.