James D. Hicks continues his quest to discover hidden organ music treasures.  This time, in his 16th volume of the Nordic Journey series, which is a double-CD set, Dr. Hicks returns to the venue featured in the immediate previous release in the Nordic Journey series: the Pauluskirche in Ulm, Germany.  In Nordic Journey, Volume XVI, Dr. Hicks sets his attention to the various connections and influences shared between the Germanic and Nordic pipe organ traditions.  The first disc in the double-disc set is an anthology of works from composers active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, while disc two in the set puts the spotlight on living composers Fredrik Sixten, Kjell Mørk Karlsen and Andreas Willscher.  The only composition commissioned by James D. Hicks for this double-CD release is “Seven Paintings on German Monuments,” a 30-plus minute work by Andreas Willscher.  The featured organ at Pauluskirche in Ulm was most recently restored and updated by Gaida in 2014, which speaks into a rich acoustic in the domed gallery of the church.

2024, Pro Organo; playing time: 154", 31 tracks, 2-discs