Search - John Tavener, Martin Neary, English Chamber Orchestra :: John Tavener: Innocence

A triumph for 20th century choral music...

06/11/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"John Tavener's "Innocence" offers listeners perhaps the broadest insight into the man and his music in the smallest and most convenient package. In this one CD, there is a sample of Tavener's large-scale style (the title work "Innocence" itself) as well as some of his finest smaller pieces (including the much-celebrated "The Lamb" and its less well-known but equally effective sequel, "The Tyger"). For those wishing to sample Tavener's command of the orchestra, there is the original version of his "Little Requiem for Father Malachy Lynch", and there is one track that everyone will be familiar with- "Song for Athene", the final piece of music at Princess Diana's funeral in 1997. It certainly is a varied programme, although certain themes (in particular Death) do crop up rather frequently. The choir seems to be right at home with just about every note and they are beautifully directed by Martin Neary- whose daughter Alice makes a special appearance as solo cellist in "Innocence". Patricia Rozario, the solo soprano (also in "Innocence"), shows here how spectacular contemporary soloists can be, negotiating a massive three-octave range with remarkable ease and purity of tone. As the notes say, it is only a pity in this recording that the theatricality of the piece cannot be conveyed fully- part of the impact of the piece lies in the fact that the solo tenor (representing Redeemed Humanity) is in a high gallery whilst the solo bass (representing Supplicant Humanity) is in a very subservient position "below" the rest of the choir. Other gripes I have about this CD are that whilst "Innocence" and the expansive pieces are perfectly suited to Westminster Abbey's acoustics, more intimate pieces like "The Lamb" are lost in them and it is necessary to crank the volume to make them out- leaving you liable for ear-ache when the next track comes on and the thunderous organ chords rip the sound system to pieces! Also, the booklet notes (although most informative) refer to other works that are unfortunately unavailable ("The Apocalypse" being one of them). However, I can only really praise this recording as some of the best Tavener available- the renditions of "Hymn to the Mother of God" and "Song for Athene" stand out in particular as utterly peerless. Even friends of mine who are usually put off contemporary music have been stopped in their tracks by this wonderful CD."

A provocative and harsh, yet etherial and emotional disc

02/18/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I also purchased this disc for Song for Athene, which I feel to be one of the most intense, emotional pieces ever written. The rest of the album is thought-provoking and intriguing. Never before have I heard a composer use such an array of colors as in Innocence. Although harsh at times, the beauty of the soprano and the "choir of angels" nicely contrasts the overall darkness. The remainder of the album is listener friendly provided the understanding of Tavener's use of microtones, which at times could sound like poor intonation. Tavener's harmonies are incredible, and the performers do an exquisite job of capturing the listener's attention. To enjoy this disc, I suggest a dark,comfortable, candle-lit room with a high quality audio system. Not necessarily for the classical novice, but an amazing recording nonetheless"

Achingly Beautiful

Julie C. Van Camp | Huntington Beach, CA USA | 09/28/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I bought this for Song for Athene, the achingly beautiful recessional at Princess Diana's funeral, but The Lamb is truly exquisite as well."