Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Inside the back of most Naxos releases there is usually some further recommendations, either by the composer or performers on the disc or suggestions along the lines of "If you liked this, why not try. . . .?" In this case we are reminded of Whitbourn's earlier release 'Luminosity' (reviewed elsewhere on this site) with three other composers for comparison, namely Judith Bingham, James Macmillan and Carl Rutti. Personally, I get the Macmillan comparison but my other choices would be the two Johns, Rutter and Tavener. The Rutter comparison is because he and Whitbourn can each write seemingly simple tunes that are enjoyable both to sing and to hear and the Tavener comparison is due to Whitbourn's use of the soprano saxophone, here played by Jeremy Powell. This reminds us of the clarinet part on "The Repentant Thief" or the cello on "The Protecting Veil" in the way it winds in and out and around the melody without seeming to add anything to the whole and yet also manages to lift it up to Heaven. However we have classified this as a choral release and so let us turn to the vocal selections. The opening "Son of God Mass" from 2001 manages to be contemporary while still being rooted in two thousand year's of contemplation into the blessed mystery of Christ's sacrifice. The "Requiem Canticorum" from 2010 and here given its debut recording is equally refreshing and, like the "Son Of God Mass" could be used in a liturgical setting. Some of the other pieces are clearly for concert performance but all are worth hearing. I particularly enjoyed "A Brief Story Of Peter Abelard" but there is not a dull moment in the entire 64 minutes. The singing of Westminster Williamson Voices from Princeton is excellent and we have no hesitation in recommending this budget-priced release.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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