Comprising a mix of old and new, ecclesiastic and pastoral, familiar and undiscovered, this CD is a rich array. Biebl's "Ave Maria" is a contemporary setting, the final "Amen" resolved in a series of step-wise imitative phrases. Britten's "A Hymn To The Virgin" is a simple and consonant arrangement with a stark and melancholy beauty. The merry and lively ""Il Est Ne Le Divin Enfant" is arranged by Rutter, while a medley of Christmas spirituals is a satisfying blend of Chanticleer's trained vocal style, with the non-diatonic contradiction of the blues. The final track: "Silent Night," capturing all the magic of the season, as simple and unique as a perfect snowflake. Newly remastered in 2004. |
