Reviewed by Paddy Hudspith

Current and former students of York University, the Ebor Singers under the direction of Paul Gameson have been performing and recording sacred choral chamber music since 1995. 'Dusk Songs' consists of the eponymous new setting for the service of Compline by East London-based Kerry Andrews, as well as Ivan Moody's "Canticum Canticorum I" and two anthems ("A Child's Prayer", "Christus Vincit") by highly regarded Scottish composer James Macmillan. Beautifully performed and recorded in Everingham Roman Catholic Church, North Yorkshire over two days during October 2006, 'Dusk Songs' is a captivating, enthralling journey which delves deeply into the rich and broad heritage of sacred choral music. Latin, Greek, English and Scots Gaelic lyrics are fused with eclectic musical styles; Andrews' interest in non-Western vocal styles sees her ultilising African, Norwegian, Bulgarian and Byzantine (to name but a few) influences in her compositions. Macmillan draws on Renaissance and Scottish folk melodies, and Moody's music is touched by Eastern Orthodox liturgical chant. Superbly presented with detailed liner notes, 'Dusk Songs' is a quiet delight.

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