Search - Sylvain Bergeron, Daniel Taylor, La Nef :: Perceval: La quête du Graal (The Quest for the Grail), Vol. 1

Worth all five stars

NotATameLion | Michigan | 11/15/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There are far too many recordings, books, DVDs-- you name it, that do not really deserve five stars (I myself have been guilty of awarding way too many). Imagine then, my chagrin at having encountered La Nef's wonderful Perceval: the quest for the Grail. The excellence of this disc (and its sequel) shows just how inferior many of the things I have previously awarded five stars are.Let me say first that once more, I am in awe of Dorian Recordings. I have yet to hear a bad disc come from this label. One of the highest praises that I can give Perceval is that it is one of the best discs Dorian has ever put out.This disc, volume one of two, follows Perceval from his sheltered, idyllic youth up until the big battle for, and his departure from, Blancheflor. This is the story of a boy who falls in love more with the idea of Chivalry than anything else. Yet he is haunted by the memory of the mother he cast aside.Out of the gold mine of artists that Dorian has had record on their label, few compare with La Nef. Daniel Taylor's voice captures the innocent, almost disinterested idealism of Perceval. The incomparable Claire Gignac breaks the heart of the listener as she sings the heartbreak of Perceval's mother.When it comes to the playing of this ensemble, words cannot convey the beauty or wonder that these musicians bring forth. While all the artists are outstanding, Eric Mercier and Sylvain Bergeron in particular shine. In the quieter moments, Mercier's playing is like the foreboding voice of impending fate.From concept to execution, this disc resounds with inventiveness and excellence. As is always the case with Dorian Recordings, the recorded sound is first-rate. The liner notes are extensive and beautifully laid out.Both of La Nef's Perceval discs are treasures. I eagerly await further music from this wonderful outfit. Until then, I give Perceval my highest recommendation."

A perfect setting

Ruth H. Cross | Houston, Texas United States | 03/02/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"La Nef is known for bringing ancient music to life, and this is one of their best. They took French texts of the Arthurian story of Perceval and set them to folk melodies, then arranged them for early music ensemble. The melodies and arrangements are beautiful. The melodies repeat a lot, but the variations in arrangement keep it interesting. As with all Dorian releases, it includes great program notes, plot summary and full texts with translations. I can't wait for part 2."

Pure "Arthurian"

Pernille Søgaard | Denmark | 06/19/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Actually I had never heard of La Nef, before I accidentally stumbled across them here at amazon.I have always ben a great fan of Arhturian texts and legends and I have read Chrétien de Troyes' story many times. I was amazed at how well La Nef have ben able to turn that story into music. You can almost smell the bonfires and hear the crossing of swords. One of my favourite numbers, is "Air Des Chevaliers". To sum it up, I have never heard such beautiful music."