Review: The Motet Singers are ten female vocalists who began in 1982 as a vocal sight-reading group under the direction of Hannelore Good. They sing a cappella music from classical, folk and popular genres, ranging from medieval to contemporary, and are known for their pure sound, seamless blending of voices and the eclectic variety of their music. There are 20 tracks here, from a fine "Salve Regina" by Javier Busto and several other contemporary and 20th century pieces, to short sacred works by Renaissance composers Morales and Palestrina, to some very nice 19th and 20th century arrangements of Spanish carols from various periods. Some of our favorites: "A la Puerta del Cielo," "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree" and "Ave Maria." There are drums on at least one cut. Everything relates to the Nativity theme, and there is a nice mix of unfamiliar winners with familiar favorites. An exceptional, beautifully sung CD!

Songlist: Sactus, O My Dear Heart, Three Spanish Carols, Ya Viene La Vieja, A La Puerta del Cielo, Riu, Riu, Chiu, Deck the Hall, White Christmas, Ave Maria, Lullay my liking, Jesus Christ the Apple Tree, O Magnum Mysterium, Maria durch ein' Dornwald ging, Over the Hill Maria Went, A La Nanita Nana, Good King Wenceslas, The Christmas Song, The Holly and the Ivy, The Three Kings, Some Children See Him, Salve Regina