Tarik O'Regan, Choir Of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown - Voices
STYLE: Choral RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 17542- LABEL: Collegium COLCD130 FORMAT: CD Album RRP: £14.00
Reviewed by Steven Whitehead
Tarik O'Regan was born in London in 1978 and has already won a British Composer Award. However he may well be a new name to most of us and it is reassuring to point out that these new pieces are sung by the well-established Choir Of Clare College, Cambridge under the assured direction of Timothy Brown. In addition the producer and engineer is none other than John Rutter and all releases on his Collegium label are attractively presented and always seem to be a labour of love. But what is it like? O'Regan's music is tonal although edgy and definably contemporary and already he has his own distinctive voice. One can hear an echo of Tavener but, to my ears, the nearest comparison I could make would be with James MacMillan. I think we are on safe ground in saying that if you enjoy contemporary choral music then you need to hear this and if your tastes are more traditional you will nevertheless appreciate the fine singing on offer. There is also a splendid organ solo, "Colimaçon", played by James McVinnie. Worth investigating.
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