Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Tenebrae, the choir under Nigel Short, here return to the sublime music of Tomás Luis de Victoria (1548-1611) with this recording of his timeless Tenebrae Responsories. The works mix the words of the Gospels with other texts commenting on collective suffering written around the fourth century and would traditionally have been performed as part of a moving service in which candles are slowly extinguished to mark the progress and suffering of Christ that forms the Passion story. Thus the music is reflective and sometimes sombre but also beautiful and ultimately uplifting. Victoria was one of the first composers to write in polyphony so his work marks an important step away from plainchant although those who like chant as an aid to meditation will find this equally helpful. The award-winning choir Tenebrae and director Nigel Short blend their passion for singing as if in a large cathedral choir with the precision of a chamber ensemble, creating a glorious sound that combines both power and intimacy. Recommended.

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