Max Richter Releases New Album While The Flood Rages
The composer explores themes of ecological crisis in his latest work through a global series of listening events.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Classical
Live Poll
Do you prefer listening to new music alone or at organized community events?
Composer Max Richter has released his latest album, While The Flood Rages, via Decca Records. The launch is accompanied by a series of global listening events taking place in major cities throughout October 2026.
Why it matters
The project examines complex themes of technological acceleration and the climate crisis. It serves as a culmination of the composer's long-term creative partnership with choreographer Wayne McGregor.
Max Richter's musical catalogue has surpassed 4 billion total streams. The artist operates from Studio Richter Mahr, a facility spanning 31 acres of woodland in Oxfordshire.
The players
Max Richter
He is a contemporary composer and co-founder of Studio Richter Mahr who received a CBE and the Berlinale Camera earlier this year.
Wayne McGregor
He is a choreographer who has maintained a long-standing creative collaboration with Max Richter.
Yulia Mahr
She is a co-founder of the creative space Studio Richter Mahr.
Anahid Nersessian
She is a writer who contributed an essay to the crossword book accompanying the album.
Victoria Trumbull
She is an essayist featured in the companion book released alongside the new music.
The details
Derived from the MaddAddam collaboration with the National Ballet Of Canada and the Royal Opera House, the release includes a physical crossword book. This companion piece features analytical essays contributed by Anahid Nersessian and Victoria Trumbull and is being distributed through independent bookshops.
Timeline
October 16, 2026: Album release and New York listening event.
October 17, 2026: London listening event and National Album Day.
October 21, 2026: Listening event in Paris.
October 22, 2026: Listening events in Seoul and Tokyo.
October 23, 2026: Listening event in Berlin.
Industry Dynamics
This project extends the artistic themes established by the MaddAddam collaboration. It follows the growing trend of multidisciplinary projects that bridge classical music with literature and dance to reach global audiences.
Fans can participate in the project through upcoming listening events in cities including New York, London, Paris, Seoul, Tokyo, and Berlin. Those interested in the physical crossword book can purchase copies directly from local independent bookshops.
The takeaway
The album reflects a multi-year creative effort that was significantly delayed by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the digital edition of the crossword book to share community thoughts on the work.
Further reading
Explore the latest developments in the Classical music scene here.
Live Poll
Do you prefer listening to new music alone or at organized community events?
