Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

This recording was made in the 12th century village church in Taize using a small group of 16 singers and five instrumentalists. As is usual in Taize recordings all are anonymous but none have anything of which to be ashamed. The singing may not be of professional standard but is perfectly suited to this contemplative style of worship and the clear acoustic means that every word can be heard. The programme brings together some of the well known songs of Jacques Berthier as well as more recent songs composed by brothers of the community. Most of the songs are simple and could easily be used by most choirs and congregations. The title track which is reprised at the end of the CD is from the Latin version of Psalm 117: "Praise the Lord, all you peoples" and this theme is developed in a variety of languages, including three in English ("Bless the Lord" from Psalm 103, "The Kingdom of God", and "Jesus, remember me" from Luke 23). Also there are new settings of familiar words in "Magnificat", "Benedictus" and "Nunc Dimities". Overall, these songs are from the more contemplative end of the Taize repertoire and none the worse for that.

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