ALL THE HOST OF HEAVEN: EŠENVALDS, DURUFLÉ AND DOVE

The Baylor A Cappella Choir is entirely new to me, but on the strength of this particular recording they have made at least one new admirer. The chief work on this CD is the Duruflé Requiem, given in its organ-only version. It is a piece hardly in need of yet another recording, one would think; yet this performance is such a special experience that it made this listener sit up and take note. Rarely have I heard such a beautiful, calm legato line from a choir in this work, in which nothing is ever over-expressed or over-emphasised. Some might find it bland, but for me there was in Baylor’s delivery a genuine sense of the numinous that was most touching and honest. Top soloists too, and fine organ playing from Isabelle Demers. Of additional interest is the fact it was recorded in the Paris church where Duruflé was titular organist for decades. The Ešenvalds and Dove items – Stars and Seek him that maketh the seven stars – only add to the feast. Warmly recommended.

PHILIP REED Read the full review on Agora Classica