A worthy successor to volume 1
scott | Calgary, Canada | 12/05/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The carol album vol 1 has been reviewed very favorably by many people, yet no one has given vol 2 any notice here. That is puzzling, because this disc offers just about the same enjoyment as the other.
There are two familiar carols, While Shepherd Watched and Hark! The Herald Angel Sing, which are given fresh and vigorous interpretations that blow away any dust that has accumulated on them over the years. Quelle est cette odeur agreable is virtually a tiny French cantata that is very beguiling. Ther is no rose of swych virtu is one of the lovliest of the many English medieval carols, which is given a 20th century setting too. (the track listing reverses the order of these pieces.) One of the unlikely highlights for me is Lullay, lullay: Als i lay on a Yoolis night. This is a 700 year old melody sung unaccompanied by a single soprano voice through 12 stanzas. Even at almost 8 minutes long it doesn't seem boring, but manages to speak across time to me and ponder the nativity scene.
If you liked the Carol Album Vol 1, you will enjoy this too."