After months of anticipation, the penultimate album in Act I of Jorge “Jay” Rivera-Herrans’ Odyssey-inspired musical, “Epic,” finally arrived last Valentine’s Day. The album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Cast Albums chart and held the spot for two weeks. To celebrate this achievement, let’s delve into some of the album’s highlights and get a taste of this theatrical masterpiece.
While all the songs are phenomenal, here are three that truly shine. “Puppeteer” picks up right after the events of “The Ocean Saga.” Odysseus and his crew are recovering from Poseidon’s wrath, but their respite is shattered by the return of Eurylochus, who left with many men yet returns alone. This captivating track sets the stage for the entire album. Tayla Sindel’s vocals have matured beautifully since the earlier snippets, further elevating the song’s emotional impact. “Puppeteer” also foreshadows a potential mutiny led by Eurlylochus, weaving themes of sacrifice and kindness into the overarching narrative of “ruthlessness is mercy.”
“Hermes’ Debut” explodes onto the scene with a unique blend of electronic elements, harps, and synthesizers, creating a magical soundscape. This song boasts the album’s most infectious chorus. The arrival of Hermes, played by Troy Doherty, marks a turning point as this mischievous god, who has been observing Odysseus, offers him aid in the form of a mysterious flower.
Character themes and motifs enrich the listening experience. Specific instruments are associated with characters, like the cello for Circe and the harp/lyre/arpeggios for Hermes. Circe’s strings and drums appear in all of her songs at different speeds. In the song “Puppeteer,” when Odysseus is talking with Eurlylochus, you can hear the lyre as Hermes is eavesdropping on them. Additionally, a recurring “danger motif” underscores moments of peril or heightened tension. “Epic” exemplifies Rivera-Herrans’ masterful ability to blend musical styles, resulting in a truly captivating listening experience.
The album is flawless, showcasing the dedication and talent poured into its creation. With a perfect 10/10 rating, “Epic” is a must-listen for musical theater fans.
