Armed with a rucksack and a stereo tape recorder, David Fanshawe began a symbolic, now legendary, cross-shaped journey through Africa from 1969 to 1972, succeeding in recording music from well over 50 tribes. "Sanctus" is a highly original work in which very different cultures have been imaginatively and ingeniously fused, with the composer's love of the world, hope for the future and belief in one music--one God. There are 16 songs, with various kinds of accompaniment, from drums and percussion, lead and bass guitar and piano to organ, harp and trumpets. This is one of the most spirited, energetic CDs we have ever heard, as if the African veldt suddenly sprouted an Italian cathedral. For instance, "Crucifixus: Rain Song" combines driving drums, rain sounds, strange native percussion instruments, a soaring choral soprano solo, electric guitar, massed chorus and piano. One of our favorites, "Sanctus: Bwala Dance, Lamentation" combines chorus with powerful rhythmic drums, piano, sound effects and native voices. Other favorites are "Chants: Cattle Songs," and "The Lord's Prayer." A wonderful new composition by the composer, "Dona Nobis Pacem-A Hymn for World Peace" is included, in both short and long versions. A stunning masterwork! Recommended. |
