Customer Reviews

Invocation à la Nuit: Musica Notturna

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This is a compilation/concept album of 2 CDs bringing together some of Hespèrion XXI and Jordi Savall's best work from 1993-2008 with the common theme of night music. One of the CDs consists of accompanied vocal selections while the other is purely instrumental.

I am impressed by the thoroughness and care that went into producing this package. There is an extensive booklet giving original texts as well as translations into French, English, Castellan, German, and Italian. The only thing I noticed that was missing was recording dates, given that they occurred over a rather wide range of time. The notes do refer to the original releases, however; so if one were sufficiently determined, he/she could trace back to the original dates and recording venues in that way.

Especially beautifully recorded and stylish performances.

Hypnotic performances - even if tempi the usual slow - by Savall & Co., now including not only his wife but son and daughter as well, supported by his familiar orchestra and chorus. These exceptional performers are taking us through a colourful range of musical pieces considered night music, 'Musica Notturna', of various periods from medieval to Mozart. Sound quality is superb on Savall's own Spanish label, Alia Vox. Do not expect any easy listening though - this is classical music at its best. (Double CD.)