Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Before we listen to any of the 19 tracks on this CD we should pause to read and applaud the excellent notes provided by Neil W Levin. His discussion of "The Book Of Psalms And Its Music Interpretation" is worth the price on its own (although as this is a Naxos release and therefore remarkably good value for money that is perhaps faint praise. It is not meant to be: for those of us who have an interest in the Psalms these comments are indeed enlightening.) The Psalms embrace virtually every basic human emotion and mood and the composers featured on this CD give us a splendid cross-section of approaches. There are 12 different composers, all American-Jewish or, as in the case of Philip Glass, born Jewish even if no longer observing. The music is more likely to be heard in the concert hall than the synagogue, as it is often very demanding. The performers, from both sides of the Atlantic, are generally excellent. As an introduction to what may be a new world of music this is recommended; even more so if it takes us back to the original poetry from the Bible.

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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