Search - Soli Deo Gloria Cantorum, Almeda Berkey (Conductor) :: Gaudete

The Natural State of Man is Joy

James A. Thorson | Omaha, NE USA | 01/03/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Soli Deo Gloria Cantorum is a 16-member professional singing group from Omaha; it is under the direction of Almeda Berkey. She and her husband, Jackson Berkey, a noted composer in his own right, are the principal keyboardists for Mannheim Steamroller. They both sang with the Norman Luboff choir in years past; many of the harmonies in their work are (fortunately) influenced by the Luboff style. Gaudete is their second CD. Much of it consists of familiar Christmas music (done beautifully, crisply, and with precision), but the other material on this album is the reason to buy it. To put it frankly, "Jesu, Son Most Sweet and Dear" with alto soloist Phyllis Noble, is one of the most hauntingly beautiful, extraordinary things I've ever heard. I know people who set their CD player to repeat this particular track over and over again. Other standout selections are Chesnekov's "Salvation is Created," and what is listed as "Ave Maria," which is the Bogoroditste Devo from Rachmaninov's Vespers. It is absolutely smashing, especially when the basses come in at the climax. A thoroughly satisfying album, done with taste and style; I'm pleased to recommend it."