Customer Reviews

Mysteria: Gregorian Chants

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I came upon Chanticleer through my interest in Renaissance polyphony. I bought their recording of Palestrina's Missa Pro Defunctis and was extremely pleased. I thought at first that they were explicitly dedicated to early music (I had only come across the Palestrina and this chant CD); my impression was that they were a kind of all-male version of the Tallis Scholars. I discovered, though, that they explore all types of music (from early to contemporary, even commissioning new works on a fairly regular basis). I was able to see them in concert a few weeks ago, and as always was impressed with their skill.

This group really does do almost everything well. They have put to disc a recording of Tallis' If Ye Love Me (one of the English Anthems) that is wonderful and sublime. When I heard them a few weeks ago, they did a few 20th century Cuban folk songs that were just as enjoyable. They are known best (probably) for their smooth sound and great blending. There are never any rough edges to any of the voices - even the countertenors, who are really quite skilled, by the way - and their balance is delicate and precise. That same smoothness is present on this CD as well. At times it is hard to believe that several voices are singing; the pitch and intonation is so good that often the 6 or so could pass for one or two. As usual, they are quite sensitive to the dynamics of the vocal line - their approach is subtle, and not forced. The result is an hour or so of chant that is soothing and relaxing, but also engaging and never monotonous.

The only drawback is this: as I understand the current state of "authentic" chant practice, Chanticleer's approach is probably not on the cutting edge of scholarly theory (they do not add some of the melismatic decorations that some groups use, for example). If you are really interested in that authenticity, the smooth voices might turn you off as well; many other groups use coarseness of the voices for texturing. Even if you are a stickler for those things, though, the visceral pleasure of listening to this recording will probably persuade you to put aside some of your ideas about "correct" practice.

On the other end of the spectrum (listeners with not much chant experience) this CD works to great effect as well. Again, the disc is an easy one to listen to; it is quiet and reflective without being spiritless. This CD might be a good choice for first exposure to Gregorian chant.

Highly recommended for all types of listeners. As per usual for Chanticleer, it is high quality work.

...CD of Gregorian Chant (other than that recorded by our local abbey) that I have in my collection. The purity of pronounciation, the precision of timing and phrasing is beyond compare. Whether a lover of chant, or a first time listener, I recommend you give this a try.

Turn out the lights, light some candles, burn some incense and you will be transported to another, far more peaceful and less stressful place. I use this CD to focus on God during my prayer times, and I find it an invaluable worship resource.

Of all the Chant CD's that I have, this one is the best! Close your eyes and you are in an abbey during high holy days. The quality of the voices and of the recording are the best I have ever heard.

From the moment you put this CD on you are transported to another world. The singing is flawless and seamless, and no individual voices stand out--they sing as one. This singing is as close to heaven as anyone can get, and I recommend it to anyone regardless of musical tastes.

This is a beautiful recording of Gregorian chant - very relaxing and spiritual. I can listen to the traditional Holy Week music and Alleluias over and over...

I love this CD and it accomplishes exactly what I'd hoped it would--it is relaxing, meditative, reflective and beautiful. I use it for my yoga exercises or when I want calming music.

The music on the CD is wonderful! It is is performed flawlessly and with great clarity. It is a must for anyone who likes Gregorian Chants.

This cd is great if your always feeling stressed out. The cd really shows how beautiful the latin language can be. Gregorian chanting is also one of the most oldest forms of christain worship dating back to a time when people lived in fear of the "dragons" that lived across the Altanic ocean and the "demons" that lived beyond what is now Germany. People looked to a higher power for comfort and still today the music is very relaxing. If you love the haunting latin voices are if your just a fan of the middle ages(the name chanticleer comes from the Chaucer's Canterbury Tales) then this cd is a must for you.

This was a very interesting set of selected music, I guess its a good think that I personally like chant,music, it was nice,but not totally what I expected. MCC

I really made a mistake in choosing this CD. The presentation was near perfect but I was looking for something more than just chanting.