Reviewed by Dave Massey

The quality of the Cambridge Choir is perhaps most evident on the quiet passages on this recording, where they manage the most incredible pianissimos. (Pardon me!) Writing in the early part of this century, Barber's music is full of the expanding harmonies of the time when composers were breaking free of the restraints imposed by formal rules. Rather like painters of the time. I can imagine Inspector Morse cruising along the Oxford roads listening to this one even if he is more of a classical buff. The music is challenging but not adventurous in the way that you might think of some contemporary composers I love the Celtic harmonies in "The Coolin'" which had me on the edge of my seat. Shame about the rather twee piece that follows it, "Under The Willow Tree", which should have staved there.

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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