Dom Minier & La Schola - Splendor: Chants Gregoriens Contemporains

Saturday 1st March 2003
Dom Minier & La Schola - Splendor: Chants Gregoriens Contemporains
Dom Minier & La Schola - Splendor: Chants Gregoriens Contemporains

STYLE: Choral
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 4919-6512
LABEL: Musicor MACD202
FORMAT: CD Album

Reviewed by Pippa Rimmer

This collection of Gregorian chants, recorded by Dom Minier and his fellow brothers of the order of Saint-Benoit-Du-Lac, is given a contemporary twist by the introduction of carefully orchestrated instruments throughout. The uninitiated will be relieved to find translations in both French and English alongside the Latin. The opening track, “Psaume 22/Psaume 129”, is a laid back, melodic version of Psalms 22 and 129 - however, the former is actually a rendition of Psalm 23 (someone’s careless typing error will confuse the sharp-eyed Bible student!). Mistakes aside, this is a worthy selection of echoey chants which sit comfortably with gentle percussion, guitars and a violin. The Celtic feel of “Iam Christus” (Now Christ) evokes the image of a rain-lashed monastery, abandoned and forgotten by time. Elsewhere, the haunting “Redemisti Nos” (You Have Redemeed Us) includes the emotive strains of a cello and piano, while the title track reminds us of God’s splendour and glory. This album will suit those who enjoy quiet meditation with a hint of something extra.

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