In Celebration of the Human Voice - The Essential Musical Instrument

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Men's Choral Recordings

Menâ€™s choral music spans the centuries, and well-sung choral music brings a lush joy to the ear, whether it is sacred or secular, plainsong, vocal chamber music, chant, madrigals, folk songs or even the music of U2! Many strong composers have written for the male ensemble over the centuries, and choirs today are singing the work of talents as diverse as Rutter and Henry VIII. Menâ€™s ensembles around the world â€“ and we carry recordings from such diverse nations as Estonia, Finland, Canada and Russia, to name just a few â€“ deliver glorious, powerful work.

Displaying 1-50 of 323 items.

Chanticleer : Here & Now - There And Then

Review: This album takes a look back at Chanticleer's favorite composers and works. It combines pieces from Renaissance and Baroque composers (Lassus, Byrd, Morley, Palestrina etc.) with 20th American works composed or arranged by Stucky, Bates, Gershwin (Summertime) and members of Chanticleer.

Songlist: Motets, Book 5: Gaude Gloriosa, Surrexit Pastor Bonus, Ave Verum Corpus, Whispers, Nude Descending a Staircase, Now Is the Month of Maying, Il Bianco E Dolce Cigno, Stelle, Vostra Merce L'eccelse Sfere, 7 Madrigals: Io Son la Primavera, Salve Regina, Porgy and Bess: Summertime , Dulaman, Jarba, Mare Jarba, Bei Mir Bist Du SCH…N, Straight Street, I Want to Die Easy, Hark, I Hear the Harps Eternal, Keep Your Hand on the Plow, I Have Had Singing

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Non Nobis, Domine

Amabile Men's Ensemble : Inner Fire

Review: The debut recording of the Primus Amabile Men's Ensemble, a group of 25 senior singers, many of whom have sung with the Amabile Boys Choirs since its inception in 1990. Inner Fire portrays messages or remembrance, thanksgiving and hope, and is a personal accomplishment for each of the 25 young men who comprise the Primus Men's Ensemble. It is, in a sense, a trophy after many years of hard and dedicated work, and represents the culmination of almost two decades of singing and growing up together

Songlist: Lux Arumique, Non Nobis, Domine, Ave Dulcissima Maria, Got Ist Mein Hirt, Ave Maria, Steal Away/Nobody Knows, O Vos Omnes, Sing Me To Heaven, The Quiet Joys Of Brotherhood, Nukapianguaq, A Celtic Triptych, Carrikfergus, Soldier's Cry, Ramkali, Ne Sedi, Djemo, Esti Dal

Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo De Silos : Christmas Chants

Review: The Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo De Silos became famous outside of religious circles in the mid-'90s when a recording of their liturgical Gregorian chants unexpectedly climbed to the top of U.S. pop charts. The Benedictine Monks have released several successful albums of their monophonic chants and have helped bring joy of mediaeval plainsong to a new and larger audience. This is a very well recorded CD of top notch quality.

Songlist: Prayers. Rorate Celi desuper. Mode I, Antiphon. O Sapientia. Mode II, Introit. Gaudete in Domino semper and Psalm 84, 1. Mode I, Hymn. Christe, redemptor omnium. Mode I, Invitational Antiphon. Christus natus est nobis and Psalm 94, 1-2. Mode IV, First Lesson of Maitins, acc. to Isaiah 9, 1-6. Primo tempore., Hymn. A solis ortus cardine. Mode III, Antiphon. Quem vidistis, pastores? Mode II, Antiphon. Facta est cumm Angelo. Mode VII, Communion. Liturgia mozarabe. Gustate et videte. Mode II, Antiphon. Rubum quem viderat and Magnificat. Mode IV, Alleluia. Dies sanctificatus. Mode II, Communion. Viderunt omnes. Mode I, Canticle. Puer natus in Bethlehem. Mode I, Canticle. Adeste fideles. Mode VI, Introit. Dominus dixit and Psalm 2, 1. Mode II, Introit. Puer natus est nobis and Psalm 97, 1. Mod VII, Gradual. Omnes de Saba. Mode V, Antiphon. Alma Redemptoris Mater. Mode V, Hymn. Panis angelicus. Mode IV, Invitational Antiphon. Christum Regem. Mode IV, Hymn. Adoro te devote. Mode V, Hymn. Te decet laus. Mode II, Antiphon. Laudemus Dominum and Psalm 116. Mode II, Canticle. Ave verum. Mode VI

Benedictine Monks of the Abbey of Einsiedeln, Switzerland : Gregorian Chorals

Review: The Shrine of Our Lady of Einsiedeln is an important Catholic shrine in the village of Einsiedeln, which is about 20 miles southeast of Zurich in Switzerland. The famous shrine incorporates the relics of a saint, a miraculous Black Madonna statue, and a Benedictine monastery. The village is also home to the world's largest nativity scene, the Diorama Bethlehem.

Songlist: Ringing of the Bells, Alma redemptoris, Kyrie, Servus tuus, Basse et des-sus de trompette, Regina coeli, Sanctus Benedictus, Plein jeu, Salve Regina, Grand jeu, Choir Concerto in the Dome of Aachen, Audi dulcis, O Maria vernans rosa, Ave Maria, Assumpta est Maria, Magnificat, Kyrie, Fugue, Cromorne, Trio, Dialogue sur les Grand Jeux

Bowling Green State University Men's Chorus - OOP : Songs For Today

Review: "Song for Today" is a gem from the 1993 version of this legendary collegiate ensemble, who refer to themselves as "America's Finest Singing Machine" for good reason. The first half of the CD, 12 of 24 cuts, is spiritually oriented, including "Sing Dem Herrn," "O Regim Caeli," "Praise Him!," "Laudamus," "E'en So Lord Jesus Quickly Come," "God Is My Rock," "Heaven," "The Creation" and the spiritual, "Ride the Chariot." The second half is more secular material, "Selections from the Student Prince," the title tune, "She Is My Slender Small Love," "Let No Man Despise Thy Youth," "Polly Von," the lilting "From Boston Harbor," "Blue World," "Kiss the Girl" and the barbershop tune "Red Head." Spirited, powerful stuff from BGSU's talented young male singers, one of the best collegiate singing traditions of all time!

Songlist: Sing Dem Herrn, Behold Man, O Regem Caeli, Praise Him!, Salvation Is Created, Laudamus, E'en So Lord Jesus Quickly Come, God Is My Rock, The Tabernacle Of God Is With, Heaven, The Creation, Ride The Chariot, Selections From The Student Prince, Song For Today, She Is My Slender Small Love, Let No Man Despise Thy Youth, Polly Von, Widerspruch, The Long Day Closes, From Boston Harbor, Blue World, Fiddler's Fare, Kiss The Girl, Red Head

BYU Men's Chorus : Awake My Soul

Review: The success of Shout with Glory! created a great demand for more music from the BYU Men's Chorus, and Awake My Soul was the welcome follow-up. A collection of 14 favorite hymns performed under the baton of then conductor Mack Wilberg (now the director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir), Awake My Soul was recorded at Brigham Young University and features the indomitable spirit of the BYU Men's Chorus, which is said to be one of the largest and finest of its kind in the nation. A new digitally remastered release from Tantara Records, Awake My Soul was previously released as a Deseret Book Company album.

Songlist: Praise the Lord, The Almighty, The King of Love My Shepherd, Redeemer of Israel, Beautiful Savior, Lead, Kindly Light, Awake My Soul, to Joyful Ways, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, Fight the Good Fight and With All Thy Might, Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound, Lord, Make Me an Instrument of Thy Peace, For All the Saints, We'll Shout and Give Him Glory, El Yivneh Hagalil (God Will Build Galilee), The Spirit of God

BYU Men's Chorus : Praise Him

Review: The BYU Men's Chorus' first two excellent releases, "Awake My Soul" and "Shout with Glory" whetted our appetite, and that of many fans, for their 3rd. For the long-awaited "Praise Him," conductor Rosalind Hall has assembled an exciting, heartfelt mix of religious texts with a nice set of folk and traditional songs to finish the program. 19 songs with some organ, horns, strings and percussion accompaniment. Favorites are the magnificent "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," "Fight The Good Fight With All Thy Might," the tender "More Holiness Give Me," "Awake My Sons, Awake," the Title Tune, Arthur Sullivan's "The Long Day Closes," "Praise My Soul," the beautiful hymn "Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah," and folksongs "Kumbayah," "Shenandoah," "Joshua Fit the Battle of Jerico," "Danny Boy" and "Down in the Valley." The bright, energetic, richly melodic sound of the BYU Men's Chorus contributes to its growing reputation as one of the premiere choral programs in the United States.

Songlist: A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, Fight The Good Fight With All Thy Might, Who Is He In Yonder Stall?, More Holiness Give Me, Awake, My Sons, Awake, Thou Art God, Praise Him, Isaiah 44.3, The Long Day Closes, Personent Hodie, Praise My Soul, Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah, Our Father, Kwmbayah, Shenandoah, Joshua Fit The Battle Of Jericho, Danny Boy, Polly Wolly Doodle, Down In The Valley

BYU Men's Chorus : Shout With Glory

Review: Tantara Records is pleased to reintroduce the best seller that marked the emergence of the BYU Men's Chorus as a recording ensemble under the baton of then conductor Mack Wilberg (now director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir). Rousing hymns ("Redeemer of Israel," "Lead Kindly Light," and more) and folk songs from around the world ("Whoa, Haw, Buck and Jerry Boy" from early Utah, the immensely popular television favorite "Betelehemu" from Nigeria, and more) characterize this wonderful collection, which is newly available after a long hiatus in its new, digitally remastered form.

Songlist: Brothers, Sing On, Redeemer of Israel, A Mighty Fortress is Our God, Lead, Kindly Light, The Morning Trumpet, Dry Bones, If I Got My Ticket, Can I Ride?, Child of God, Three Welsh Songs, The Yellow Sheepskin, Fair Lisa, Once a Farmer and His Wife, Tahiti, Hej, Dziny, Dziny, Dom, Blow Ye Winds Westerly, Cindy, Titery-Irie-Aye, Whoa, Haw, Buck, and Jerry Boy, Odun De, Betelehemu, We'll Shout and Give Him Glory, Battle Hymn of the Republic

Cantabile - The London Quartet : Christmas with Cantabile

Review: Founded as an a cappella group at Cambridge and one of our favorite British male quartets, Cantabile's pure, bright, spirited harmonies have won them many fans over the years. With most arrangements done by the group, we could expect some of the group's trademark humor, which comes in spades on their a cappella "Twelve Days of Christmas," featuring silly and rude barnyard sound effects that underline the absurd problems associated with having an impossibly generous "true love." Other favorites are the spirited, a cappella "Gaudete!," a romantic "Winter Wonderland," a very Bing Crosby-like take on "White Christmas," the lovely a cappella "Wexford Carol" and "Coventry Carol," "The Jimmy Brown Song," which has added lyrics which may or may not be tongue-in-cheek; and a Doo-Wop "Lonely This Christmas," (ditto). Tom Lehrer's quintessentially sarcastic "A Christmas Carol" has no such ambiguity, nor does the silly "The Carol Singers." "Silent Night," also sung in German a la The Comedian Harmonists," one of Cantabile's favorite influences, attempts to make amends for the craziness, but the surprising musical collage "Carol" and the bonus track "Les Trois Cloches," which is, as far as we can tell, "Jimmy Brown" sung sweetly and dramatically in French, are certainly non-traditional and may be parodies. There is piano accompaniment on several cuts. "Christmas with Cantabile" is a beautifully sung and arranged, eclectic, often silly and unexpected collection that we totally enjoyed, and we bet that you will too!

Songlist: Winter Wonderland, The Little Road to Bethlehem, Gaudete!, Tua Bethlem Dref, The Twelve Days of Christmas, Wexford Carol, White Christmas, Susser die Glocken nie Klingen, Coventry Carol, The First Mercy, The Jimmy Brown Song, Lonely This Christmas, A Christmas Carol, The Christmas Song, The Carol Singers, Silent Night, Carol, Les Trois Cloches

Cantabile - The London Quartet : In Cambridge

Review: Recorded live in - you guessed it - in Cambridge, this male quintet is a stylistic whisper away from the King's Singers, both in terms of sound and choice of material, though the influence of the Swingles can be felt as well ("The History of Western Music"). The selections on this CD encompass several centuries, beginning with William Byrd's "Deo Gratias." Embracing the British folk ballad (Morley and Henry the VIII), and the European classical form (Chopin), the group then travels forward in time to include period classics such as "Sentimental Journey" and "The Lambeth Walk," finishing up with the wholly appropos doo wop closer, "Goodnight Sweetheart Goodnight."

Songlist: Deo Gratis, Fire, Fire my Heart, Weep, O Mine Eyes, Now is the Month of Maying, Myfanwy, The Wee Cooper O'Fife, Pastime With Good Company, The Minute Waltz, Java Jive, Mein Kleiner, Gruner Kaktus, The History Of Western Music, Are You Lonesome Tonight?, Sentimental Journey, A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square, The Lambeth Walk, Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight

Cantabile - The London Quartet : Lullabyes and Goodbyes

Review: Cantabile is an ensemble of four male voices who came together as a group while studying at Cambridge University in the 1980s and have gone on to become one of England's premiere choral ensembles. The programme on this release is a very eclectic mix with nearly all the music excellently arranged by the group themselves. The singing itself is all first class. The four voices blend beautifully and there isn't a sour note to be heard. Diction is consistently crystal clear although texts and English translations, where appropriate, are provided. As you'd expect, the contribution of Malcolm Martineau is first rate. There's a great deal to enjoy here and I can imagine this being particularly restful and enjoyable late evening listening, perhaps with the fire burning gently and a glass of something warming at your elbow. Try this for something a bit different!

Songlist: Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel), Evening Prayer , Barcarolle, Hushabye , Wiegenlied , Bilbo's Last Song , lullaby , Haere Ra , Hawaiian Lullaby , Moonshine Lullaby, Cancion De Cuna Para Dormir A Un Negrito , My Lagan Love , Schlaendes Jesuskind , Lullaby Of Birdland , Oblivion , Discendi, O Sonno Vago, Lullaby, Nacht Und Traume , Bilbo's Last Song , Stay Awake , Goin' Home , Our Revel Now Are Ended , Counting Up My Toes

Cantabile - The London Quartet : Madrigal to McCartney

Review: "Madrigal" was recorded at Victoria Memorial Hall in Singapore in February 2001, and features 15 tunes, ranging from sacred early Christian music like Weelkes' "Hark, all ye lovely Saints above," Passereau's "Il est bel et bon," and Wm. Byrd's "Agnus Dei" to a wonderful "Tribute to the Beatles" medley of 18 Fab Four classics and "Yesterday," to Gershwin's "Summertime," Rodgers and Hart's "My Romance" and Sinatra's "Strangers in the Night." Two bonus tracks include Richard Rodney Bennett's "A Good Night," commissioned by Paul McCartney from "A Garland for Linda," and "Brahm's Lullaby." Certainly an odd repertoire mix, but Cantabile's perfectly pitched, fresh, joyous sound works well with just about anything they choose to perform.

Songlist: Hark, all ye lovely Saints above , Comment, amour, me veux-tu tourmenter? , Il est bel et bon , Agnus Dei (from the Mass of Four Voices) , A Tribute ot the Beatles , The Compleat Works , The Long Day Closes , Summertime , My Romance , Are You Lonesome Tonight? , Strangers in the Night , Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight, Yesterday , A Good-Night, Brahms' Lullaby

Cantabile - The London Quartet : On The Tracks Of... The Comedian Harmonists

Review: One of the UK's most popular and respected all-male quartets, known for their humor and pure sound, pays a well-earned tribute to The Comedian Harmonists, a funny, eclectic and talented 6-man group who were popular on the radio and in German cabarets from 1927 until forced to disband by Nazi anti-Semitism. Mostly lightly accompanied by piano, "On the Tracks Of" has 14 authentic, spirited tunes, most of them originally performed by the CH, like "Meine Kleiner, Gruner Kaktus," "Sandmannchen," "The Way You Look Tonight/A Fine Romance," the silly "Voila Les Gars De La Marine," the poignant "Der Lindenbaum," Duke Ellington's "In My Solitude," the waltz parody "G'schichten Aus Dem Wienerwald," the delightful yodel and whistle-fest "Medley from Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs: Heigh-Ho/Whistle While You Work/The Dwarfs' Yodel Song (The Silly Song)" and the appropriate last cut, "Auf Wiederseh'n!". We love the droll, "Roaring 20's" sound of the Comedian Harmonists, and Cantabile's take on them is as good as any we've heard. Classic, cabaret stuff that tugs at your heartstrings, makes you laugh and makes you want to dance!

Songlist: Let's Face The Music and Dance, When Yuba Plays The Rumba On the Tuba, Mein Kleiner, Gruner Kaktus, Sandmannchen, Amapola, The Continental, The Way You Look Tonight/A Fine Romance, Voila' Les Gars De La Marine, Der Lindenbaum, (In My) Solitude, In Einem Kuhlen Grunde, G'schichten Aus Dem Wienerwald, Medley From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs , Auf Wiederseh'n!

Cantabile - The London Quartet : Songs of Cricket

Review: Cantabile, AKA The London Quartet, have been wowing audiences across the world since the 1980s with their shows that blend performance flair, comic timing, and a deep passion for high-quality vocal music. This album is an eclectic tribute to the very British obsession that is cricket, bringing together works from the turn of the century to the present day. Featuring guest performances from the likes of Richard Stilgoe, Rory Bremner and Tim Rice, this album should prove a must-buy for cricket- and music-fans alike.

Songlist: Cricket Theme Medley , The Cricketers of Hambledon , School Songs Medley (five school songs) , The Summer Game - from Cricket (Hearts and Wickets) , PLillian Thomson , Radnage Cricket Song (Bucks. folk song) , Four Jolly Bowlers , The Rules of Cricket - A Psalm Chant , You've Got to be a Cricket Hero (to Get Along with the Beautiful Girls) , Jiggery Pokery , Village Rondo , Eton and Winchester , I Made a Hundred in the Backyard at Mum's , Australian Cricket Medley , The Barmy Army , That's Not Cricket - from At Home Abroad , Cricket Tea Towel: The Ins and Outs of Cricket , Andy Flower Duet , Jerusalem , When an Old Cricketer Leaves the Crease , 'Stop it, Aggers!'

Cantabile - The London Quartet : Tribute To Hollywood

Review: One of the UK's finest vocal groups, Bill, Paul, Mark and Michael of Cantabile, The London Quartet, have a unique and unmistakable sound and a reputation for originality and humor. Although the group was founded as a purely a cappella student group, the sixteen cuts of "A Tribute to Hollywood" are mostly accompanied, with the exception of two tunes, Harold Arlen's "Over the Rainbow" and the theme from the Streisand/Redford classic "The Way We Were." "As Time Goes By" and Stephen Sondheim's "Sooner or Later" are piano accompanied; and Herman Hupfeld's "Take My Breath Away" is accompanied by guitar. "Up Where We Belong," Sondheim/Bernstein's "Gee, Officer Krupke" from "West Side Story," the Gershwins' "I Got Rhythm," "Under the Sea" from "The Little Mermaid," and the classic "Lullaby of Broadway" are all orchestrally accompanied. That aside, we loved this dynamic, entertaining collection, with plenty of the sweet leads and harmonies, humor, eclecticism and big fun of Cantabile!

Songlist: Up Where We Belong, As Time Goes By, Everybody's Talkin', Take My Breath Away, Evergreen, I Just Called To Say I Love You, 'Round Midnight, Iko Iko, Over The Rainbow, Gee, Officer Krupke, Cavatina, I Got Rhythm, Sooner or Later, Under The sea, The Way We Were, Lullaby of Broadway

Cantus : Against The Dying Of The Light

Review: The 11 men who form the acclaimed Woodbury, MN-based Cantus bring us another perfectly crafted collection of sacred choral music. "Against" includes Sibelius' "Hymnus," Casals' "O Vos Omnes, Orff's Sunt Lacrimae Rerum, Tormis' Varjele, Jumala, soasta, Josquin's Absalon, fili mi, Sibelius' Sydameni Laulu," Schubert's "Grab und Mond," Jennings' "Two Laments on Dylan Thomas," Madetoja's "De Profundus," Thompson's "Alleluia," Debussy's "Invocation" and Barber's "Heaven-Haven." The CD is beautifully packaged, with a small book of all the lyrics poetically presented. One of the best male choruses in the world brings us a gift of timeless spiritual music-music that takes us to another reality, a place of benediction, praise and worship.

Songlist: Hymnus , O Vos Omnes, Sunt Lacrimae Rerum , Varjele, Jumala, Soasta , Absalon, fili mi, Sydameni laulu , Grab und Mond , Two Laments on Dylan Thomas, De Profundis , Alleluia , Invocation, Heaven-Haven (A Nun Takes the Veil)

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Pseudo Yoik

Cantus : Cantus

Review: Cantus programming at its finest represents a great mix of styles and influences. On their latest release they decided to showcase all this variety on one recording. Included is a new commission from Lee Hoiby paired with a "Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel)" by Billy Joel. They include early 20th century Russian sacred music next to early 21st century American sacred music. They are two show-stoppers - the Smokey Robinson tune "Who's Loving You" and "I Can't Tarry" a rousing African-American spiritual An amusing faux-Finnish piece precedes a semi-theatrical setting of "Casey at the Bat" and the lively programming keeps you listening from beginning to end, just as it does in their acclaimed live concerts.

Songlist: Introit: Benedicta sit Sancta Trinitas, Quatre Petit Prieres de Saint Francois d'Assise, Salvation is Created (spaseniye sodjelal), Ave Dulcissima Mria, Last Letter Home, Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel), Mogamigawa funa uta, Ramakali, Who's Loving You, Pseudo Yoik, Dalvi duoddar luohti, Casey at the Bat, I Can't Tarry

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Ta Stara Bozicnz Pejsen

Cantus : Christmas with Cantus

Review: In their newest recording, the men of Cantus bring the sounds of the holidays to you and your family. Including audience favorites "Do You Hear What I Hear," "Carol of the Bells," "Noel Nouvelet," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and of course the Franz Biebl "Ave Maria," this collection of songs old and new is full of light and life.

Songlist: Nowell, Nowell! This is the Salutacion, Ta Stara Bozicnz Pejsen, 'Twas in the Moon of Wintertime, Coventry Carol, Noel Nouvelet, Priidite, Pokolonimsa, Carol of the Bells, Pat-a-Drummer, Folkefrelsar, Til Oss Kom, Awed by the Beauty, O Magnum Mysterium, Ave Maria, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Heleluyan, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Cantus : Comfort and Joy Vol 1

Review: Cantus does it again and delivers another top knotch recording and shows how this fine male ensemble is developing into a world class act. This well recorded release features Gregorian chant, folksong arrangements, and major Christmas works for male choir, such as Morten Lauridsen's glorious "O Magnum Mysterium" and Franz Biebl's moving "Ave Maria." Also featured are new arrangements by members of the ensemble of familiar holiday songs, as well as newly commissioned Christmas compositions. The song selection ranges from familiar carols such as "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "I Wonder as I Wander," "The Three Kings," "What Child Is This and "Silent Night," to a Welsh lullaby, "Suo Gan," and "Gabriel's Message," a Basque carol arranged by John Rutter. This CD is intended to go well with a cold night, a roaring fire, and some eggnog. Due to the loving work of John Atkinson and the singers of Cantus, the album is that and more. It illuminates the human side of the Nativity, focusing on the idea of new life in the dead of winter and the bond between parent and child. Beautiful holiday music, finely-crafted and effortlessly sung.

Songlist: Puer natus est, Gabriel's Message, Ave Maria, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Hodi Christus natus est, O Magnum Mysterium, O Magnum Mysterium, Mary Had a Baby, Suo Gan, A La Nanita Nana, I Wonder as I Wander, The Three Kings, What Child Is This?, Die Konige, Coventry Carol, Silent Night

Cantus : Comfort and Joy Vol 2

Review: Minneapolis/St. Paul's ten-strong, all-male Cantus has impressed us with their excellent earlier recordings and continue to do so with "Comfort and Joy: Volume Two," their second Christmas recording. Song selection and arrangements (and, for that matter, the elegant liner notes) are particularly fine here. Little-known pieces like "Puer natus in Bethlehem," Omnis mundus jucundetur," "Four Carols" by Halsey Stevens," Wm. Dawson's "Hail Mary," the Plainchant "Hodie Christus natus est," the Georgian wassailing song "Alilo," Ariel Ramirez' "Los Reyes Magos" and Babatunde Olatunji's "Betelehemu" with the more traditional carols like "Go Tell it On the Mountain," the French carol "Masters In This Hall," "God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen," "Riiu Riu Chiu," and an almost unrecognizable arrangement of "Deck the Halls." Some percussion and accompaniment. Consistent throughout are the powerful harmonies of Cantus, one of our favorite male ensembles.

Songlist: Puer natus in Bethlehem, Omnis mundus jucundetur, Four Carols, All This Night Shrill Chanticleer, What Sweeter Music, As I Out Rode This Enderes Night, A Virgin Most Pure, Hail Mary, Go Tell It On The Mountain, Hodie Christmas naatus est, Masters in this Hall, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Alilo, Riu Riu Chiu, Los Reyes Magos, Bethlehemu, Deck The Halls

Cantus : Introit

Review: The young men of Cantus, an eleven-member ensemble from St. Olaf College, perform choral literature ranging from polyphony and chant to art songs and spirituals. Therefore the Latin "O Sacrum Convivium" (De Victoria) and Tallis' "If Ye Love Me" reside along a 20th century Gustafsson-composed "Kyrie" and "Gloria," the dissonant intervals heralding the epoch of modernism. "Nachtliches Standchen," a romantic lied, a form of which Schubert was master, is included, as is Finzi's "Thou Didst Delight My Eyes." "Shenandoah" and "Danny Boy" are quietly lambent; the acoustics of the church in Minnesota, where this CD was recorded, a perfect setting.

Songlist: Introit for Trinity Sunday: Benedicta sit, O Sacrum Convivium, If Ye Love Me, Thee We Adore, Missa a cappella, Kyrie, Agnus Dei , Our Father, Ave Maria, Nachtlliches Standchen, Thou Didst Delight My Eyes, The Turtle Dove, Danny Boy, Shenandoah, Prayer of the Children, Adoramus te

Cantus : Let Your Voice Be Heard

Review: Cantus is a professional, 12-male vocal chamber ensemble dedicated to exalting the human spirit through the performance of innovative and engaging musical programs. Their focus is not only on singing the finest literature of the past but also to present new music created by group members or commissioned for the group. People may experience them through concerts, recordings, clinics and new musical scores. The 19 songs on "Let Your Voice" are an exciting mix: the title tune (African Jazz, with non-vocal percussion, which is present on other tracks),"Dravidian Dithyramb" (Indian Dance Music), "El Yivneh Hagalil" (Hebrew Folk Song), and "What Shall We Do the Drunken Sailor" (English Sea Shanty), share CD space with "Mata Del Anima Sola," a Venezuelan Joropo, "Shen Khar Venakhi (Georgian Wedding Song), "K'ang-ting Love Song" (Chinese Folk Song) and "Were You There" (African-American Spiritual). All songs feature innovative arrangements and often breathtaking spirit and energy. A rousing, powerful CD from an amazing, talented ensemble.

Songlist: Let Your Voice Be Heard, Dravidian Dithyramb, El Yivneh Hagalil, Nukapianguaq, Dulaman, What Shall We Do With the Drunken Sailor, Songs from Matengo Folktales, Mata del Anima Sola, Shen Khar Venakhi, K'ang-ting Love Song, She Moved Through the Fair, Domaredansen, Loch Lomond, Danny Boy, Shenandoah, Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder, Were You There, One By One, Let Your Voice Be Heard

Cantus : Live Vol. 1

Review: Hailing from Northfield MN's St Olaf College, 10-man a cappella group Cantus was founded by a few college friends in 1995, and since then has won recognition across the globe as one of America's finest all-male vocal ensembles. Boasting 13 (with "Live, Volume 1") excellent albums (and a pair of songbook collections) on Singers.com, and performing at more than 400 venues across the planet, Cantus' powerful, beautiful sound has gained them happy fans and much critical acclaim. "Live Volume 1" was recorded at the First Lutheran Church in Columbia Heights, MN in 2004, and contains 18 selections, some favorites are Michael Head's "How Sweet the Moonlight Sleeps," Francis Poulenc's "Quatre Petit Prieres de Saint Francois d'Assise," three "Psalms of Ascent" by Chester Alives, Benjamin Britten's "Ballad of Little Musgrave and Lady Barnard," Nick Cave's "The Mercy Seat," five "Songs of the Sea" by C. Villiers Stanford," and a pair from "The Art of the Ground Round" by P.D.Q. Bach, "Loving is as Easy" and "Please Kind Sir." Several songs are lightly accompanied by piano or guitar. Settle back and experience the excitement of this wonderful, spirited live performance by versatile Cantus!

Songlist: How Sweet the Moonlight Sleeps, Part I: Quatre Petit Prieres de Saint Francois d'Assise, Part II: Quatre Petit Prieres de Saint Francois d'Assise, Part III: Quatre Petit Prieres de Saint Francois d'Assise, Part IV: Quatre Petit Prieres de Saint Francois d'Assise, Unto the Lord in my distresse: Psalms of Ascent, I to the hills lift up mine eyes: Psalms of Ascent, O all yee servants of the Lord: Psalms of Ascent, Ballad of Little Musgrave and Lady Barnard, The Mercy Seat, Drake's Drum: Songs of the Sea, Outward Bound: Songs of the Sea, Devon, O Devon in wind and rain: Songs of the Sea, Homeward Bound: Songs of the Sea, The Old Superb: Songs of the Sea, Loving is as Easy: The Art of the Ground Round, Please, Kind Sir: The Art of the Ground Round, Dalvi duoddar luohti- Talvitunturin joikha

Listen to
Remember Me

Cantus : Live Vol. 2

Review: Cantus presents recordings from some of their recent concerts. Highlights include collaborations with the Saint Olaf Choir ("Beautiful Savior" and "Our Father"), guest conductors Dale Warland and Anton Armstrong and performances by Cantus' tenth anniversary reunion choir (Alleluia," "Ave Maria," and "Salvation is Created"). Also included on this eclectic disc is the premiere of "Private First Class Jesse Givens," a setting of a letter from a fallen U.S. soldier in Iraq by American composer Lee Hoiby. Cantus has rapidly developed into one of the finest male choral ensembles performing today and this recording accurately captures that talent.

Songlist: Absalon Fili Mi , Private First Class Jesse Given , Remember Me, Salvation Is Created , Alleluia , Ave Maria, Our Father , Beautiful Saviour, Los Pastores , Mata Del Aninma Sola , When She Loved Me , How Can I Be Sure , Stick To The Craythur, Who's Loving You

Listen to
E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come

Cantus : That Eternal Day

Review: All male, 9-voice a cappella ensemble Cantus, acclaimed by Fanfare as the "premier men's vocal ensemble in the United States," rehearses and performs without a conductor or a music director. "Deep River," Cantus' 2003 album of African-American Spirituals, was so well-received, the group realized that "Singing, in this land we call America, has its roots firmly planted in sacred music." They tells us that the very first book published in the colonies was a Psalter, published in 1640. Tenor Aaron Humble reports, "We were excited to explore the bold shapes and sounds of colonial music and learn how we could juxtapose this unique soundscape with more familiar sacred works like Paul Manz's "E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come" and Moses Hogan's "Witness."" There are 18 songs here, including some surprising, wonderful cuts like Bobby McFerrin's "The 23rd Psalm (dedicated to my mother)," William Billings' "Anthem, Lamentation Over Boston," the composer's attempt to deal spiritually with the burning of Boston by the British in the American Revolution, its world premiere recording. Other world premiere recordings are "There's a Meeting Here Tonight" arranged by Cantus, "Simple Gifts" arranged by Stephen Caracciolo," "What Have I Done" ("Amazing Grace/House of the Rising Sun," and "Keep Your Lamps," both arranged by Timothy Takach, "Run On (God's Gonna Cut You Down)", arranged by Gary Ruschman, "Been in the Storm" arranged by Cantus, "The Sweet By and By," arranged by Aaron Humble; and "Paradise," arranged by Malcolm Dalglish. Every cut here touches and moves, surprises and delights us-don't miss "That Eternal Day," one of the best of the year!

Songlist: There's a Meeting Here Tonight, Wondrous Love, Simple Gifts, Jewett, What Have I Done, He Never Said a Mumberlin' Word, Run On (God's Gonna Cut You Down), Been In The Storm, Anthem: Lamentation Over Boston, The Sweet By and By, Hallelujah, The 23rd Psalm (dedicated to my mother), Wanting Memories, Paradise, E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come, Witness, Keep Your Lamps, Goin' Home

Listen to
Jonah's Song (Peter Schickele)

Cantus : There Lies The Home

Review: Minnesota-based 11-strong all-male ensemble Cantus, since their founding at St. Olaf College in 1995 have had great fun performing around Minnesota, the country and the world, and recording excellent CDs ("There Lies The Home " is their 10th). The authentic folk songs and sea chantys in "Home" are popular choices in the group's repertoire. Some favorites are "Break, Break, Break," "Songs of the Sea," "Jonah's Song," "Shenandoah," "Lowlands," arranged by Alice Parker and Robert Shaw," Gordon Lightfoot's "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" and Sting's "Valparaiso." Beautiful liner notes, some light accompaniment. Powerful and evocative music!

Songlist: Prelude (Before Dawn) , Sea Fever , Break, Break, Break, Songs of the Sea (Op. 91) , Jonah's Song, Shenandoa, Lowlands , Muistse mere laulud , Incantatio maris aestuosi, Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald (, Valparaiso , A True Heart is Haiting

Cantus : Tidings

Review: "Cantus" is an eleven member all-male group hailing from St. Olaf's College in Minnesota. Their holiday disc includes many traditional favorites, such as "Coventry Carol," "Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming," and "God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen" and an original version of "Deck the Halls" (done in 5/4, with jazzy harmonies??, a definite departure from the style on the rest of the recording). "Riu, Riu, Chiu," sung in Spanish, and accompanied by appropriate percussion, accented like a russian song (ask the group about this.) The recording, made in a church, adds atmosphere and presence to the group's own melliflous blend; the notes "float" effortlessly as if weightless. The classically-trained voices are well-suited to the sacred material, the sound of which conveys allegiance to its origin centuries ago. A calming shelter from the Christmas frenzy.

Songlist: Veni, Veni Emmanuel, O Magnum Mysterium, Riu, Riu Chiu, Gabriels' Message, Salvation Is Created, Alleluia, Hail Mary, Lo, How A Rose E're Blooming, O Holy Child, Coventry Carol, Suo Gan, I Wonder As I Wander, God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen, I Saw Three Ships, Deck The Halls, Silent Night

Cantus : Vagabond

Review: This young male ensemble from the great choral-producing regions of Minnesota, under the artistic direction of Erik Lichte, bring a fresh elegance and vitality to their repetoire. Cantus incorporates a wide variety of influences from across the globe. A contemporary setting of the Latin "Veni Creator Spiritus," is followed by three similar works, dating from Rennaissance or pre-Rennaissance. Ralph Vaughan Williams' "The Vagabond" is musically itinerant, restlessly drifting between tonalities. The melancholy "This Ol' Hammer," an African-American work song, has a solo lead on the verses, while the chorus echoes key phrases in assent; the arrangement manipulates the placement and number of voices throughout, adding and subtracting for variety and dynamic range. "One by One" is Zulu - sung in Zulu - with whoops and caterwauling, all very tuneful, of course. It's a jubilant finale.

Songlist: Veni Creator Spiritus, Cantate Domino, The Pauperum Refugium, O Filii Et Finliae, Alleluia, Amen, The Vagabond, Two Settings Of Rupert Brooke, - Oh! Love, - The Hill, Break, Break, Break, Loch Lomond, Doraredansen, Mouth Music, Bullgine Run, This Ol' Hammer, In His Care-O, One By One

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I Am He That Aches

Cantus : While You Are Alive

Review: "While You Are Alive" is an outstanding collection of music, a worthy contribution to the library of classical male choral repertoire. The album celebrates life through a gorgeous marriage of poetry and music. Included a new commission from Steven Sametz, who sets the poetry of Walt Whitman, a choral favorite from Eric Whitacre, a new nine-part work for Cantus by Edie Hill, a world premiere recording by Timothy C. Takach, a delightful piece by Veljo Tormis featuring SPCO flutist Julia Bograd-Kogan, and "The Turning," the musical result of composer Maura Bosch's work with Cantus, The American Composer's Forum and the Tubman Family Alliance.

Songlist: Lux Aurumque, A Lullaby, A Sound Like This, We Two, Kolm mul oli kaunist sona, The Turning, Things I Didn't Know I Loved, Encounter, There is Sweet Music Here

Capella Gregoriana : Gregorian Christmas

Review: Not technically Gregorian, because of some polyphony this recording is predominantly chant, but there are times when the selections move to motets, the natural outgrowth of chant, being simultaneous independent plain songs as it were, combined to form a melodious and rhythmic whole much as partner songs do. As for the Christmas feel, it is certainly reverent and soothing. Highly recommended, this is an excellent budget album.

Songlist: Introitus: Puer natus est nobis, Kyrie: Kyrie eleison, Gloria: Gloria in excelsis Deo, Psalmus 112: Laudate pueri, Offertorium: Tui sunt caeli, Sanctus, Agnus Dei, Communio: Viderunt omnes, Magnificat anuma mea Dominum, Hymnus: A solis ortus cardine, Introitus: Salve sancta Parens, Halleluja: Multifarie, Communio: Exulta filia Sion / Psalm 45, Magnificat anima mea Dominum

Cardinall's Musick : The Byrd Edition Vol 1

Review: The Byrd Edition is a long-term project that is one of the most comprehensive ever undertaken in the early music field: some 20 CDs that will cover the complete works of William Byrd. The music will be freshly edited and sources re-examined by David Skinner. The Cardinall's Musick under Andrew Carwood has gained a formidable reputation in bringing the neglected masterworks of the English Renaissance to a wider public. These have included the festal Masses of Ludford and the complete works of Fayrfax, the excellence of which was recognized by the winning of a prestigious Gramophone Award. The whole project is divided between the Latin Church Music, the Secular Songs and Consort Music, and the English Church Music. Volume 1 is the first of the Latin Church Music discs, which provides a chronological survey of Byrd's surviving Latin motets to the Cantiones Sacrae of 1591, interspersed with a liturgical survey of the Gradualia. Thus this first CD includes the Gradualia propers for Lady Mass in Advent, the Lamentations, the exquisite penitential motet Peccavi super numerum and the great 9-part psalm setting for men's voices Domine quis habitabit.

Songlist: Domine Quis Habitabit, Omni Tempore Benedic Deum, Christe Redemptor Omnium, Sermone Blando, Miserere, Ne Perdas cum Impiis, De Lamentatione Jeremiae Prophetae, Rorate Caeli, Tollite Portas / Ave Maria, Ecce Virgo, Alma Redemptoris Mater, Christe qui lux es (a5), Christe qui lux es (a4), Sanctus, Audivi Vocem de Caelo, Vide Dominum Quoniam Tribulor, Peccavi Super Numerum

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Who Can I Turn To?

CenturyMen : Anthems in Disguise

Review: Many guest artists plus a full orchestra join The CenturyMen, formed of professional musicians who are directors of music at Baptist churches all over the country on this magnificent (all accompanied) album. The Broadway Inspirational Voices, conducted by Michael McElroy, tenor Darius de Haas, Renay Peters Joubert, soprano, the Nashville Children's Choir and Walt Whitman's Soul Children of Chicago join TCM on these 16, well, anthems is a good word! Favorites are inspirational songs like "The Impossible Dream," "Climb Every Mountain," "When You Wish Upon a Star," "Not While I'm Around," and spiritually uplifting tunes like "Total Praise" "As the Deer," "Holy, Holy, Holy," "For Every Mountain," "Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross," "Free at Last," "Just a Little Talk," "My Tribute," and "Holy Ground." Then there's the quintessential upbeat, optimistic anthem from "Oklahoma," "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'." This is a feel good collection from one of the best men's choruses we've heard, and a stellar group of guest artists.

Songlist: Total Praise, The Impossible Dream, As the Deer, Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin', Holy, Holy, Holy, Not While I'm Around, Climb Every Mountain, For Every Mountain, Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross, When You Wish Upon a Star, Free at Last, Just a Little Talk, My Tribute, Who Can I Turn To?, Morning Glow, Holy Ground

CenturyMen : Beautiful Star

Review: Established in 1969, the CenturyMen is an auditioned men's chorus of professional musicians who are directors of music in Baptist churches across the country. The group has extensively toured the US, and has performed in churches, concert halls and on nationwide telecasts. Concert tours in foreign countries include Brazil, Russia, China, Poland, the Czech Republic, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Switzerland, Israel and Turkey. "Beautiful Star" is a Christmas album, heavily accompanied by piano, Hammond and pip organ, electric piano, mandolin, guitar and percussion, that features 21 songs. Many of the songs are beautifully-arranged standards such as "O Holy Night," "Angels We Have Heard on High," "Wexford Carol," "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Rise Up Shepherd/Go Tell It on the Mountain," "Silent Night," "Joy to the World" the spirited round "This Little Babe" and "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," are all wonderfully done by this veteran chorus. A few are new to us, the joyous "O Jerusalem in the Morning," the lovely, waltz-like "O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem," the dramatic "What You Gonna Name Your Pretty Little Baby" and the rhythmic "Ain't That a-Rockin'," and these are the hits of the album. The CenturyMen have a powerful, rich harmonic sound (which we would love to hear unaccompanied) that rivals that of the best Barbershop Harmony Society choruses, and "Beautiful Star" is a joy from beginning to end!

Songlist: O Holy Night, Angels We Have Heard On High, Mosaic Noel 1 "Fear not: for, behold...", Wexford Carol, Glory, Glory, Hallelujah, Mosaic Noel 2 "...I bring you good tidings of great joy..., O Jerusalem in the Morning, Beautiful Star of Bethlehem, Mosaic Noel 3 "...which shall be to all people..., What You Gonna Name Your Pretty Little Baby, This Little Babe, Mosaic Noel 4 "...For unto you is born this day..., Ain't That a-Rockin', O Come All Ye Faithful, Mosaic Noel 5 "in the city of David a Savior..., Rise Up, Shepherd/Go Tell It on the Mountain, Silent Night, Christmas Triptych, Mosaic Noel 6 "...which is Christ the Lord.", Joy to the World, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: A Digital Reflection

CenturyMen : Offerings of Peace

Review: "Offerings of Peace" is an epic collection of 16 Hymns, Spirituals and Gospel Songs from the 100 Baptist Music Directors who comprise The CenturyMen, a full Symphony Orchestra, and a Gospel choir of Broadway performers. It's hard to pick favorites, but "Be Still, My Soul," the a cappella "Peace! Be Still!," "Peace Like a River," "It Is Well with My Soul," "Oh, How I Love Jesus," "Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling," "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," "All Creatures of Our God and King" and "Close to Thee" are all powerful and excellent. A beautiful, moving album by The CenturyMen and guests!

Songlist: Be Still, My Soul, Peace Like A River, My Father's House, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing, It Is Well with My Soul, Oh, How I Love Jesus, Peace! Be Still!, A Passion Mosaic, O Sacred Head, Now Wounded, Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling, Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, All Creatures of Our God and King, Close to Thee, God Be With You Till We Meet Again, Encore: Give the World a Smile

Listen to
En! Natus Est Emanuel - Psallite

Chanticleer : A Chanticleer Christmas

Review: One of our all-time favorite groups since their founding in San Francisco in 1978, 12-man professional a cappella vocal ensemble Chanticleer has gained an international reputation, performing over 100 concerts a year around the world. But they have been most sought after at Christmas. In its extensive discography, which includes several Grammy winners, Chanticleer's Christmas recordings are best-sellers. To us, "A Chanticleer Christmas is a particular treat because it was recorded live at Stanford University's magnificent Memorial Church. The soaring, glorious harmonies (including some of the purest and cleanest male soprano leads we've heard) are simply stunning. The 15-tune songlist includes classical music like Handl's "O Admirabile Commercium," Giovanni Nanino's "Hodie Nobis Caelorum Rex" and Michael Praetorius' "En! Natus Est Emanuel/Psallite;" traditional carols such as "Caroling, Caroling/Bright, Bright the Holly Berries," "Angels We Have Heard on High," "Un Flambeau, Jeannette Isabella," "Away in a Manger," "O Holy Night" and "The First Nowell;" and goodies such as Peter Warlock''s "Bethlehem Down" the Plainsong "Hodie Christus Natus Est" and Robert Young's "There is No Rose of Such Virtue." A powerful, joyous collection by Chanticleer, who are clearly in their element, and we, well, we are fortunate enough to be listening to them do their wondrous thing!

Songlist: Hodie Christus Natus Est, O Admirable Commercium, Hodie Nobis Caelorum Rex, En! Natus Est Emanuel - Psallite, Vom Himmel Hoch, Caroling, Caroling/ Bright, Bright the Holly Berries, Angels We Have Heard on High, Bethlehem Down, There Is No Rose of Such Virtue, Rocking Carol, Un Flambeau, Jeannette, Isabella, Away in a Manger, O Holy Night, The First Nowell, Ave Maria

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O Salutaris Hostia (Andrea Gabrieli)

Chanticleer : And On Earth, Peace: A Chanticeer Mass

Review: With its seamless blend of twelve male voices, ranging from countertenor to bass, the San Francisco-based ensemble Chanticleer, celebrates the life of their founder Louis I. Botto on the 10th anniversary of his death. Five composers create a mass that evolves organically, as if written by one hand and the ensemble brings it to life. Using Gregorian Chant as a foundation this Mass evolves organically, as if written by one hand. These composers bring international prestige to the project as well as vastly different life paths and points of view. Israeli-born composer Shulamit Ran wrote the Credo to the Hebrew text "Ani Ma'amin." Well-known television composer Douglas Cuomo contributed the Kyrie. Turkish-American Kamran Ince composed the Gloria section in to a sufi text, while Ivan Moody, drawing from the Greek Orthodox tradition, delivered the Sanctus. The Irish folk and medieval music-influenced composer Michael McGlynn (Anuna) composed the Agnus Dei. To seamlessly travel from one composer to the next, Chanticleer offers haunting and beautiful pieces by Gesualdo, Part, Binchois, and Gabrieli.

Songlist: Da Pacem Domine, Deus, Deus Meus, Respice In Me , Kyrie , (Gloria) Everywhere , O Vos Omnes, Aestimatus , Credo/Ani Ma'Amin , O Salutaris Hostia , Ravenna Sanctus, Peccantem Me Quotidie, Agnus Dei , Da Pacem, Domine

Chanticleer : Best of

Review: This carefully assembled collection represents the vision, artistry, and remarkable scope of the Grammy Award-winning Chanticleer has demonstrated over the course of a history that began in 1978 and has encompassed some 30 recordings. In a collection that features three never before recored, but often requested Chanticleer interpretations of Mahler's Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen, Gershwin's Summertime and Crouch's Lullaby, The Best of Chanticleer reveals one of the most distinctive, stirring, and indeed important voices in music today.

Songlist: Deusm Deus Meus, Respice in Me, Agnus Dei, Como Pod'a Groriosa, Past Life Melodies, The Garden of Paradise , Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen, Loch Lomond, Summertime, Calling My Children Home, Willow Weep For Me, Sit Down Servant/ Plenty Good Room

Chanticleer : Chanticleer Takes You Out Of This World

Review: The sun, the moon, the stars and the planets, the universe beyond them - composers have always been fascinated by their seductive power. Our newest explorations will be from Berkeley-based Composer-DJ Mason Bates in a world premiere about transmissions from outer space and "Cells Planets" by Erica Lloyd of Little Grey Girlfriend in a new arrangement especially for Chanticleer. Fantastic early works by Monteverdi, Marenzio and Palestrina and romantic works by Schumann ("An die Sterne") and Mahler ("Ich bin der welt") will join music of 20th century composers Britten, Mechem, Hopkins ("Past Life Melodies") Gershwin and others. Come with us - out of this world!

Songlist: Assumpta est Maria in caelum a 5, Ave regina caelorum, Sfogava con le stelle, Ecco mormorar l'onde, Hymn to St. Cecilia , Island in Space, Past Life Melodies, Out of This World, Change The World, Stelle, vostra merce l'eccelse sfere, Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen, Observer in the Magellanic Cloud, Cells Planets

Chanticleer : Christmas with Chanticleer

Review: "Christmas with Chanticleer featuring Special Guest Dawn Upshaw," is the first holiday album from the celebrated 12-man a cappella vocal ensemble since "Sing We Christmas," which has been a bestseller since its release in 1995. The CD Includes songs and carols drawn from many lands and traditions - from the traditional English "Coventry Carol" to a modern work by Sir John Tavener, from a Spanish carol to an American spiritual - "Christmas with" showcases Chanticleer's musical diversity. Several works feature arrangements by the group's music director, Joseph Jennings. Philip Wilder, one of the group's countertenors, said of Upshaw: "She blended so perfectly, it felt as if we'd been singing together for 20 years...suddenly she would soar above us and the sound was just magical!"

Songlist: This Is The Truth Sent From Above, A Christmas Round, Today The Virgin, Es Ist Ein Ros Entsprungen, Noel Nouvelet, A Lullaby/Away In A Manger, The First Nowell, The Three Kings, Die Stimme Des Kindes, Suo Gan (Lullaby Song), Spanish Carol, Coventry Carol, Beautiful Star Of Bethlehem, Huron Carol, Mary And The Baby Medley,

Chanticleer : Colors Of Love

Review: Chanticleer, a twelve voice male ensemble based in the San Francisco Bay Area, has through its own success, furthered the modern classical repetoire by comissioning new compositions from a variety of highly respected sources. Chen Yi, Bernard Rands and Steven Stucky are just a few of the distinguished composers whose eminently scholarly credentials grace this collection, loosely conceptualized around the theme of love. As may be construed by the twentieth century time frame from which these pieces emerged, some of them, while not thoroughly dissonant, are atonal. Others, such as Taverner's "Village Wedding," are somber mood sketches.

Songlist: Rouxinol do Pico Preto , Lulajze, Jezuniu , Buy Baby Ribbon , Village Wedding , Winds of May, That Dance on the Sea, O Cool is the Valley - Rands, This Heart that Flutters Near my Heart - Rands, Silently She's Combing her Long HairRands, Gentle Lady, Do not Sing Sad Songs , Sleep now, O You Unquiet Heart! , All Day I Hear the Noise of Waters , Words of the Sun , Written of a Rainy Night , Wild Grass, The Rub of Love, In Time Of - Steven Sametz, Look out Upon the Stars, my Love , Live is a Beautiful Dream , Alas, the Love of Women! , Tor Stony Limits Cannot Hold Love Out , All Mankind Loves a Lover

Chanticleer : Cristobal de Morales

Review: Cristobal de Morales is usually mentioned along with Francisco Guerrero and Tomas Luis de Victoria as the trio of Spanish composers who typified 16th-century Spanish church polyphony. The Missa Mille regretz is based on the famous chanson of the same name by Josquin des Prez, and proved to be a favorite work of Charles V. This recording conveys the deep spiritual feeling behind these liturgical settings - another bull's-eye for this splendid ensemble.

Songlist: Vidi aquam, Mille regretz, Mille regretz: Kyrie, Mille regretz: Gloria, O Sacrum Convivium, Mille regretz: Credo, Emendemus in melius, Mille regretz: Sanctus, Mille regretz: Agnus Dei, Lamentabatur Jacob

Chanticleer : Josquin/Agricola

Review: Who better than Chanticleer to interpret the chants of Josquin De Prez and Alexander Agricola, two High Rennaissance composers who, though not Italian born, came to prominence while in service of the Italian nobility and papacy. De Prez, the more famous of the two, served to advance the development of both homophonic and polyphonic textures and was prescient in his use of both. Agricola also utilized the motet and various liturgical forms as was standard at the time. The exhaustive liner notes that complement this recording provide formal analysis and historical background. The sound? While the nuances of each composition may be appreciated fully by those with a dedicated propensity, anyone can be calmed by the ethereal voices and elegant organum of these simple settings.

Songlist: Mater Patris et Filia , Missa Mater Patris: Kyrie , Missa Mater Patris: Gloria , Nobis Sancti Spititus, Missa Mater Patris: Credo , Regina Coeli , Missa Mater Patris: Sanctus, O Crux Ave, Missa Mater Patris: Angus Dei , Domine, Non Secundum Peccata Nostra , Magnificat

Listen to
The Christmas Song

Chanticleer : Let It Snow

Review: Known for their moving interpretations, spiritual insight and outstanding musicianship, Chanticleer has released several top-selling Christmas recordings . . . but none like this! This spectacular Christmas record is packed with holiday favorites with the additional treat of a couple of commissioned Gene Puerling arrangements. Clare Fischer and Bill Finegan also deliver upbeat arrangements for this lively holiday CD that is sure to be a family favorite for years. Most songs are a cappella with just a couple of tracks having full orchestra and swing band selections. This is a wonderful Christmas recording and is highly recommended.

Songlist: Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!, The Christmas Song, Ding Dong! Merrily On High, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen / Feliz Navidad, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Ave Maria, Silent Night, Sweeter Still, O, Holy Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, Holiday Cheer, a Suite of Seasonal Songs, Jingle Bells, Twelve Days of Christmas, Carol of the Bells, We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Chanticleer : Love Story

Review: The story of love is inexhaustible. Let us into your heart to share the enchanting and disturbing emotion which has evoked more poetry and music than any other. Music by Whitacre, Paulus, Tavener, de Vivanco, Victoria, Ellington and more. This CD is a live concert recording of Chanticleer's 2011/12 Season opening concert, Love Story. It was recorded in front of a live audience on September 16 & 21 at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Songlist: Veni dilecte mi, Sicut lilium inter spinas, Tant que vivray, Ubi caritas, Epithalame, Vor den Turen, Traumlicht, Frohlich im Maien, Village Wedding, A Rich Brocade, Late Spring, All Night, Illusions, Blues in the Night, Creole Love Call, Make Someone Happy, Somebody to Love, My Romance

Chanticleer : Magnificat

Review: The now Grammy-winning, San Francisco-based Chanticleer was originally devoted to the Renaissance vocal repertory; their focus has broadened since to include other genres as well as commissioned works. "Magnificat," however, featuring settings by de Victoria, Palestrina, Monteverdi and Taverner (as well as the less ubiquitous Russian Orthodox Vasily Titov), returns to liturgical chant. These twelve male voices, under the musical direction of Joseph Jennings and performing arrangements encompassing the full vocal range, bring a seemingly effortless grandeur to these homages to the Blessed Virgin. This tapestry of sound is a gentle whisper of comfort and reprieve.

Songlist: Ave Maria, Ave Maria, Mater Dei , Magnificat , Stabat Virgo Maria , Maria, Quid Ploras , The Angel Cried Out , Regina Caeli Laetare , Alma Redemptoris Mater, Ave Maria Stella, O Thou Joy Of All The Sorrowful , Ave Regina Caelorium , Ave Maria , Salve Regina

Chanticleer : Mexican Baroque

Review: In the Baroque era (about 1700-1750) Mexico City was unrivaled in splendor and sophistication, where chapel masters in Mexican cathedrals were composing concerted vocal music of extraordinary beauty and elegance. Two names stand out: Manuel de Zumaya and Ignacio de Jerusalem. Chanticleer selected two of the most significant Mexican composers active in the first half of the eighteenth century and, in performances of outstanding quality, show that they are not merely pale imitations of their European counterparts, but have something original to say and the craftsmanship with which to say it. Both composers are very well served indeed by this fine recording, which we unreservedly recommend as a breath of fresh air to anyone with the slightest interest in the baroque and just as much to those who consider the baroque of little interest.

Songlist: (Ignacio de Jerusalem c. 1710-1769), Responsorio Segundo de S.S. Jose, Dixit Dominus:, -Dixit Dominus Domino meo, -Virgam virtutis tuae, -Judicabit in nationibus, -De torrente in via bibet, -Gloria Patri, et Filio, -Amen, (Manuel de Zumaya c. 1678-1755), Sol-fa de Pedro, (Ignacio de Jerusalem), Polychoral Mass in D Major:, -Kyrie, -Gloria, Credo, -Sanctus, (Manuel de Zumaya), Hieremiae Prophetae Lamentationes, Celebren, publiquen

Chanticleer : Music For A Hidden Chapel

Review: William Byrd and his teacher, Thomas Tallis, were inarguably the greatest composers of Elizabethan England. The primary vehicle for royally-sanctioned musicians of the court was liturgical, and in the court of Elizabeth that would mean settings for Anglican services. However, Byrd was a committed Catholic who nonetheless wrote these masses, motets and antiphons for published volumes titled "Gradualia," volumes I and II. This insurgent act apparently went uncensured, and it is these a cappella works that Chanticleer has recorded here. Given that they would not be performed publicly in a church setting by a large choir, the arrangements are intimate. They are each in the same mode and clef, which therefore creates a mood unbroken, a continuity of feeling that is quietly moving.

Songlist: In tempore Paschali, Regina Caeli, In Assumptione Beatae Mariae, Ave Regina Caelorum, Salve Regina

Chanticleer : Mysteria: Gregorian Chants

Review: Gregorian chant is the archetypical song for the Roman Catholic Church. There are three separate distinct periods, all of which are represented on this recording. The first era, called Gregorian, was roughly 700-850 AD. This is the time of Pope Gregory's school which rigidly codified the music allowed to be sung in churches, and the beginning of the written score for transmission to posterity rather than relying on strictly oral traditions. The Carolingian period is considered from 850-1,000 AD and began to add new styles to the more rigid structure. The medieval period was from 1,000-1,300 AD the styles proliferated immensely. That led the way to modification into secular song. In understanding Gregorian chant, the meaning of one word is particularly important. Melisma means that a number of notes are sung over the duration of a single syllable. The most joyous of the music which Chanticleer performs on this disc is very melismatic. Enjoy!

Songlist: Immutemur, Kyrie XVII, Laetatus Sum, Dominus Iesus, Tenebrae Factae Sunt, Pange Lingua, Crux Fidelis, Reproaches and Trisagion, Christus Factus Est, Vexilla Regis, Gloria in Excelsis II, Alleluis V. Pascha Nostrum, Victimae Pacshali Laudes, Iubilate Deo, Angus Dei XVII, Alma Redemptoris, Ave Regina Caelorum, Regina Caeli, Salve Regina

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Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair

Chanticleer : Our American Journey

Review: "Our American Journey" is, incredibly, legendary group Chanticleer's 25th CD, and it celebrates the music of America, from sacred motets by 17th century Mexican composers to shape-note hymns to newly-commissioned works on American themes. It is a showcase of the rich traditions and also of the creative tension between unity and diversity that are inherent in American music and in American life. Chanticleer's Music Director Joseph Jennings, who adapted and arranged a number of the works, said, "(The CD) captures the essence of what we do when we're on the road, and how we want to present ourselves." Some favorites: "Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah," "Wayfarin' Stranger," Stephen Foster's "Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair" and "Camptown Races," "Jefferson," "David's Lamentation," "Willow Weep for Me," and the commissioned works "Whispers" and "The Un-covered Wagon." Excellent!

Songlist: Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah, Credidi , Versa est in Luctum , Jefferson , David's Lamentation , Soar Away , Whispers, Voices of Autumn, The Un-Covered Wagon , Fuggi, fuggi, dolor , Labbra vermiglie e belle , Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair , Love Walked In , Camptown Races , Willow Weep For Me, Calling My Children Home , Wayfarin' Stranger, I'm a Pilgrim

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Gabriel's Message

Chanticleer : Our Favorite Carols

Review: For many years the Chanticleer Christmas concerts were a San Francisco special treat and they performed sold out performances virtually every day from Thanksgiving to New Years. And then they started winning Grammys and the word soon spread. Now they perform year round and tour all over the world but Christmas has always been special to this very talented ensemble. Here is a release of their favorite Christmas carols with wonderful a cappella arrangements by some of the best including Joe Jennings, David Willcocks and Gene Puerling.

Songlist: A Babe is Born in Bethlehem, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/Rejoice and Be Merry, I Saw Three Ships, This Have I Done for My True Love, I Wonder as I Wander, Star of Wonder/We Three Kings of Orient Are/No Small Wonder, The Town Lay Hushed, The Holy and the Ivy, A Virgin Unspotted, Gabriel's Message, Huron Carol, See, Amid the Winter's Snow, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, A Christmas Carol, Good King Wenceslas, In the Bleak Midwinter

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