Litany

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com essential recording
With Litany, Estonian composer Arvo Pärt created one of his stirring works: a nearly 23-minute long composition for orchestra and vocal ensemble based upon the 24 prayers of St. John Chrysostom (one for each hour of the day). Commissioned for the 25th Oregon Bach Festival, the composition is both memorable and timeless. It finds influences in everything from chant to the repetition of modern minimalism. Play it loudly and the striking vocals of the Hilliard Ensemble simply soar against the strings of Tallinn Chamber Orchestra. The orchestral Trisagion harkens towards Litany's mood swings and impact, but--sans voice--lacks the mysticism. One of Part's best, and as sacred as modern compositions come. --Jason Verlinde

Litany, Music, Arvo Pärt, Classical, Classical Music, Estonia, Modern Composition
Basso Profondo From Old Russia
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Enjoyment of old Russian liturgical nusic
  • Finally, a recording I can sing along with!
  • Good Music from Russia
  • Great CD
  • Well Below the Bass Range
Basso Profondo From Old Russia

Manufacturer: Russian Season Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Ancient Echoes
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  3. Russian Divine Liturgy
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  5. Chants de la Liturgie Slavonne

ASIN: B00000JQGJ
Release Date: 1999-08-10

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Enjoyment of old Russian liturgical nusic.......2007-01-09

The Basso Profundo recording reminds one of the recordings of Tibetan Monks in chant and is very stirring.

4 out of 5 stars Finally, a recording I can sing along with!.......2006-11-04

As a low bass and wannabe octavist, I really enjoy singing along with this recording. Luckily, I have performed the Rachmaninov "All Night Vigil", Tchaikovshy "Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom", and other works in Old Church Slavonic, so the words are mostly familiar.

I still find it amazing that these singers can make notes in the midrange still sound low! Enjoy!

5 out of 5 stars Good Music from Russia.......2005-07-21

This CD is very good for those who like orthodox music. Buy it!

5 out of 5 stars Great CD.......2003-03-02

I have done a good bit of research on basso profundo's, contrabasses, etc and these guys seem to be lower than any I've heard. The soloist on "Do Not Reject Me In My Old Age" has a full voiced G1, below low bass C which he hits a number of times on the CD. Very amazing recording... good musically, not the VERY best choir I've ever heard or anything, but definetly good. Russian music is great, many of the tracks are very dark musically, but there are some more majestic tracks, and a few tracks that sound kinda militaristic.

5 out of 5 stars Well Below the Bass Range.......2002-01-15

The music on this CD won't be to everyone's liking, but the unique sound of the voice of a "basso profundo" or "octavist"
is a musical rarity that shouldn't be missed. These basses have a gripping effect, with a timbre resembling that of an organ's pedal tones. These basses can sing the low A below the bass range. They are, simply, extraordinarily powerful voices. Savor the unearthly sound of them. Who knows - you might just get to like Russian polyphonic liturgical chant, as well.
Russian Divine Liturgy
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent option at good price
  • It Touches the Soul
  • Performance is fine, but recording and liner notes are poor
  • Inexpensive marvel from naxos
  • Is like being in Heaven!
Russian Divine Liturgy
Alexander Andreyevich Arkhangel'sky , Russian Orthodox Chant , Alexander Tikhonovich Grechaninov , Ledkovsky , Alexei Fydorovich Lvov , P. Mironositsky , Apostol Nikolaev-Strumsky , Stepan Smolensky , Igumen Mitrofan , and Novospassky Monastery Choir
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000053W45
Release Date: 2001-02-20

Tracks:

  1. Meeting And Vesting Of Bishop
  2. Eis Polla Eti, Despota
  3. Great Litany
  4. Bless The Lord, O My Soul
  5. The Only Begotten Son
  6. Come, Let Us Worship And Fall Down Before Christ
  7. The Trisagion
  8. Prokeimenon
  9. Alleluia
  10. Cherubic Hymn
  11. The Nicene Creed
  12. A Mercy Of Peace
  13. The Hymn To The Theotokos
  14. Praise The Lord From The Heavens!
  15. Psalm CXX (Mironisitsky)
  16. Blessed By the Name Of The Lord, Henceforth And For Ever More
  17. Great Doxology

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent option at good price.......2007-03-25

Ortodox liturgic music is sometimes as difficult as it can be considering the fact it belong to a very different liturgy no matter how christian it is.
This little gem can be helpful to understand not only this very important part of russian music but the soul of russian religiosity, guided by the superb performance of Novospassky Monastery Choir, that reminded me other great effort in the same way: the Choir of Santo Domingo de Silos Monastery.
Not always Naxos is the best choice, but in this case is definitely a must for those interested on religious music.
Five stars.

5 out of 5 stars It Touches the Soul.......2005-05-02

This cd is balanced with the melodic strains of the choir, and the rich, deep solos above it. It is an inspiration and I highly recommend it.

2 out of 5 stars Performance is fine, but recording and liner notes are poor.......2004-10-13

RUSSIAN DIVINE LITURGY is a performance by the Novospassky Monastery Choir of the Russian Orthodox liturgy celebrated by a bishop. The music of the Russian Orthodox liturgy consists only of the human voice singing in the Russian Church Slavonic language (a redaction of Old Church Slavonic made easier for speakers of Russian to pronounce). No instrumentation is included.

There is a great deal of passion in this performance as in the "Trisagion". There is also grace and sweetness, as in the "Great Litany" or the recitation of the Nicene Creed. This recording portrays those aspects of Orthodox worship which have wowed members of other denominations with their beauty and profound sincerity.

Though the performance was fine, the sound quality of this recording is unimpressive. Though a DDD studio recording, the engineers did not really explore the space of the venue and the voices are often muddled and indistinguishable. This probably would have sounded better in a church than in a studio with these engineers.

The liner notes are also of rather poor quality, as is unfortunately quite common with Naxos discs. There is no libretto, just excepts from several of the portions and descriptions. Church Slavonic text is missing entirely. The names of the Ukrainian cities Kyiv and Lviv are spelled according to the (often considered offensive) Russian manner of Kiev and L'vov. The commentary, which do not appear professionally edited, are uncredited.

If you are interested in Church Slavonic liturgy in music, I would recommend Arvo Part's setting of the "Kanon Pokajanen" penitence text. The disc released by ECM New Series features a detailed libretto with the Church Slavonic, fine translations, and an essay about this portion of Orthodox liturgy. Naxos has released here an authentic and sincere performance of the liturgy, but the poor liner notes and sound quality do little to recommend it.

5 out of 5 stars Inexpensive marvel from naxos.......2003-07-16

As someone new to choral sacred music, the price of this CD allowed me to experiment without risking to much financially.
I have never heard Russian Orthodox music before. It is more exuberant in many ways than western massesbut also has moments of serenity. This CD contains an amalgam of music from different cenuries which all fits together surprisingly well. The choir sings powerfully from start to fini. Highly recommended to anyone interested in the music of other cultures.

5 out of 5 stars Is like being in Heaven!.......2003-06-29

Beautiful version of the Orthodox Liturgy. If you aren't Orthodox, this might convert you. If you already are, it will bring tears of joy to your eyes.
Treasures of English Church Music
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • My favorite album. English church music at its finest.
  • The grand tradition of English music
  • music of great beauty
  • Excellent Selection, Excellent Performance
  • Best all-in-one English music CD ever
Treasures of English Church Music

Manufacturer: Collegium
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. The Music of St. Paul's Cathedral
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  5. Abide With Me

ASIN: B0000031I6
Release Date: 1995-12-12

Tracks:

  1. Music Of The Latin Rite: Ave Maria
  2. Music Of The Latin Rite: Loquebantur variis linguis
  3. Music Of The Latin Rite: Miserere mei
  4. Haec dies
  5. Music Of The Latin Rite: Ave verum corpus
  6. Music Of The Reformation: If Ye Love Me
  7. Music Of The Reformation: Hide Not Thou Thy Face
  8. Music Of The Reformation: Lord, For Thy Tender Mercy's Sake
  9. Music Of The Reformation: O Clap Your Hands
  10. Music Of The Reformation: Bow Thine Ear
  11. Music Of The Reformation: Hosanna To The Son Of David
  12. Music Of The Restoration: Lord, How Long Wilt Thou Be Angry
  13. Music Of The Restoration: Thou Knowest, Lord
  14. Music Of The Restoration: Hear My Prayer, O Lord
  15. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Beati quorum via
  16. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: This Joyful Eastertide
  17. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Sing Lullaby
  18. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: A Spotless Rose
  19. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: What Cheer?
  20. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: O Taste And See
  21. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: A Hymn To The Virgin
  22. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Jesus Christ The Apple Tree
  23. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Faire Is The Heaven
  24. Anthems And Introits: Rejoice In The Lord
  25. Anthems And Introits: Remember Not, Lord, Our Offences
  26. Anthems And Introits: Come, Let's Rejoice
  27. Anthems And Introits: When David Heard
  28. Anthems And Introits: I Sat Down Under His Shadow
  29. Anthems And Introits: These Are They That Follow The Lamb
  30. Latin Motets: Christe Jesu, pastor bone
  31. Latin Motets: O beatum et sacrosanctum diem
  32. Latin Motets: Nunc dimittis
  33. Latin Motets: O vos omnes
  34. Latin Motets: Factum est silentium
  35. Latin Motets: Justorum animae
  36. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Hail, Gladdening Light
  37. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: A Hymn To The Mother Of God
  38. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Hymn For The Dormition Of The Mother Of God
  39. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: They Are At Rest
  40. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: A Litany
  41. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Nolo mortem peccatoris
  42. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: O nata lux
  43. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Loving Shepherd Of Thy Sheep
  44. Prayer Settings: The Lord's Prayer
  45. Prayer Settings: In manus tuas
  46. Prayer Settings: Bring Us, O Lord God

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars My favorite album. English church music at its finest........2005-10-06

Whether you have a couple dozen albums of English choral music or whether you're looking for an introduction to English choral music, this two CD collection is a must. Here you will find a wide selection of sacred favorites, from Gregorian chant to Ralph Vaughan Williams. It's a misnomer to call it "Anglican," since this would exclude (in addition to, of course, the pre-Reformation Latin hymns) the likes of Thomas Tallis and William Byrd -- both Catholics that kept to the ancient faith despite Elizabeth's (albeit relatively mild) persecutions. Tallis and Byrd set the standard in the 16th century for the distinctive "Englishness" (as opposed to Continental European) style of English choral music, with its soaring majesty yet somehow coupled with a subtle and sustained beauty (as opposed to the Continental ups and downs and often tiresome exaggerations). For those of us in the English-speaking world, this is our heritage. Let's treasure it. As for the recording itself, the mixing is superb. While listening, it's quite easy to imagine yourself in the beautiful King's College Chapel or perhaps heaven itself.

5 out of 5 stars The grand tradition of English music.......2005-09-23

Recorded in the Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral, the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a duo of discs dedicated to Music of the English Church previously issued as two separate discs, 'Hail, Gladdening Light', and its companion piece, 'Faire is the Heaven'. The discs here are straight copies of those discs; hence, if you have those already, there is no need to purchase this - on the other hand, if you do not have the other discs, this is a bargain.

--Music--
This is all unaccompanied music, sung in a cathedral chapel acoustically suited for such music. The first disc has four primary sections: Music of the Latin Rite; Music of the Reformation; Music of the Restoration; and Anglican Revival and the twentieth century. The most famous composers in English music history -- Tallis, Byrd, Gibbons -- combine with later masters such as Purcell, Stanford, Howells, Walton, Britten and Vaughan Williams to form a truly masterful collection. These are anthems, hymns and other liturgical pieces that have remained important in Anglican worship, and can be often heard in situ on Sundays around the world. However, the Cambridge Singers bring their special music talent to the task, producing a good standard bearer for music of the English Church.

On the second disc, there are six Latin motets, set by composers such as Taverner, Howells, Stanford, Vaughan Williams, Philips and Dering. Anthens and Introits include notables Tomkins and Purcell, and lesser-known composers such as Amner, Bairstow and Goss. Hymns span the range from old to modern, including a hymn by John Rutter himself. The disc ends with three prayer settings, including one by the underappreciated John Sheppard, and another from William Harris, whose hymn serves as the title to the companion disc. These anthems and hymns show a powerful range of music, yet show a consistent tone also that makes it rather distinctive of the music of the English church.

The group's power and grace is second to none, particularly when singing this kind of music in a place such as Ely Cathedral, arguably the most natural of settings possible.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words of each anthem or hymn. The notes for each piece also includes brief biographical information of the composer, and unique information about each work, when particular composers are represented more than once. One thing conspicuously missing is much biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the most basic of information.

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices, many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages. Many are former members of the choir of Clare College and other Cambridge collegiate choirs (hence the name, Cambridge Singers). In the quarter-century since the founding, the Cambridge Singers have produced an impressive body of recordings.

5 out of 5 stars music of great beauty.......2005-04-24

Pop one of these CDs into your car stero, turn up the volume and feel yourself drift into a sublime peace. Can music manifest the existence of God?

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Selection, Excellent Performance.......2004-07-28

This two-CD compilation by the Cambridge Singers is truly very good. The repertoire is very diverse and only the best representations of composers and time periods are performed. ALthough most of the pieces were not written with a mixed choir in mind, the Cambridge Singers sing it so well you would not have had any idea. Their performances are careful and exquisite.

5 out of 5 stars Best all-in-one English music CD ever.......2004-04-20

This is a re-release, as one set, of two of my favorite CDs ever: "Faire is the Heaven" and "Hail Gladdening Light" by the Cambridge singers. This is a fabulous compilation of everyone's favorite works from the English Cathedral tradition, all the way from Taverner (16th century) to Tavener (21st century). The selection of works is great and touches all the most important genres. The performance is exquisite, elegant, faultless. The Cambridge Singers have a softer, less edgy sound than the Tallis Scholars, and are more expressive, which may make them easier for some people to listen to, especially for the more recent works. They are no less musical. The Parsons Ave Maria alone brings one to tears. If you want an introduction to English church music, this is the CD to start with. Also makes a great gift, if you already love this music and want to introduce someone else to it.
Litany
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Magnificent
  • Approaches some of the finest modern Christian composition
  • Part of the Divine
  • Ho-hum
  • Divine for Sure...
Litany
Saulius Sondeckis
Manufacturer: Ecm Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000025QUG
Release Date: 2000-01-25

Tracks:

  1. Litany (To Helmuth Rilling And The Oregon Bach Festival)
  2. Psalom (To Alfred Schlee On His Birthday)
  3. Trisagion (Dedicated To The Parish Of Prophet Elias In Ilomantsi On The Occasion Of Its 500th Anniversary)

Amazon.com essential recording

With Litany, Estonian composer Arvo Pärt created one of his most stirring works: a nearly 23-minute-long composition for orchestra and vocal ensemble based on the 24 prayers of St. John Chrysostom (one for each hour of the day). Commissioned for the 25th Oregon Bach Festival, the composition is both memorable and timeless. It finds influences in everything from chant to the repetition of modern minimalism. Play it loudly and the striking vocals of the Hilliard Ensemble simply soar against the strings of the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra. The orchestral Trisagion harkens toward Litany's mood swings and impact, but--sans voice--lacks the mysticism. One of Pärt's best, and as sacred as modern compositions come. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Magnificent.......2007-04-10

My favorite album of my favorite 20th C composer. Best listened to on a stormy night.

4 out of 5 stars Approaches some of the finest modern Christian composition.......2004-11-01

LITANY collects three works by Arvo Part from the mid-1990s. They are all related to Eastern Orthodoxy and, in my opinion, form Part's first truly great religious composition.

"Litany" is an English-language setting of the 24 prayers of St. John Chrysostom for each hour of the day and night. Chrysostom's is one of the greatest litanies in Christianity and an example of the skill with words which gained him the epithet "Golden-Mouthed". With its continuous cycling between softer lulls and loud, proud entreaties the work might be best compared to Giya Kancheli's "Styx". The work is performed by the Tallin Chamber Orchestra with the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conducted by Tonu Kaljuste. However, the four main vocal parts are performed by singers from the Hilliard Ensemble, native speakers of English who can really bring out a most euphonious rendition.

The latter two works on the disc are performed by the Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra conducted by Saulius Sondeckis. "Psalom", written in 1985 and dedicated to the music publisher Alfred Schlee, and revised in 1995 is a relatively brief instrumental appreciation of the Psalter. It is a pretty work, but brief and quickly forgotten after the following piece. "Trisagion" was written in 1992 for the 500-year anniversary of the parish of the Prophet Elias in Ilomantsi and revised in 1995. It is inspired by the Orthodox hymn of that name ("Thrice-holy"), but is purely instrumental. It requires great care and energy on the lower strings, and the orchestra pulls this off admirably.

I have criticized Part's work of the 1970's and 1980's as technically brilliant but spiritually dead, but in the 1990's, as he began using concrete concepts of his Orthodox faith instead of fuzzy and nebulous mentions of "spirituality", his oeuvre has approached the profound depths of Christian spirituality common to the work of Olivier Messiaen and Sofia Gubaidulina. This style culminated in his 1998 setting of the massive Kanon Pokajanen penitence text, though he subsequently seems to have moved on to yet another style.

Unfortunately ECM, as usual, gives us only about 50 minutes of music. It would be nice to have one more worked placed on the disc, since these releases aren't cheap. The liner notes are also somewhat disappointing, giving only details of the recording and the text of "Litany" with no biographical notes or musicological analysis.

While Part might be best approached through his tintinnabuli phase of the 1970s and 1980s, of which TABULA RASA (also on ECM) is a shining example, his work only got much better in the 1990's. This is a disc worth hearing for those who have already come to like Part's music, and anyone looking for powerfully Christian contemporary compositions.

5 out of 5 stars Part of the Divine.......2003-04-11

Litany is one of Arvo Part's finest works that starts with the hourly prayers of St. John Chrysostom, who's last name means "Golden Mouth". St. John Chrysostom was a monk turned Patriarch of Constantinople (modern day Istanbul), who edited & shorten the Eastern Orthodox Christian Liturgy which main frame is still used today. Therefore he was a master of prayer which Arvo Part has done a fantastic job adding a quasi-ancient yet modern version of minima classical music to. The music starts quietly & reflectively for a great length, slowly building until the heavens shine forth. Psalom is a quiet yet strangely beautiful string piece that maybe best played during a dark night with candle light. Trisagion is bold with strong overtones like the Prophet Elias of the old testament, revealing God from the mountain tops. A church was named after the Prophet & Arvo Part wrote a dedication to celebrate its 500th Anniversary. Maybe not the CD to start listening to Arvo Part due to its strong religious overtones, "Tabula Rasa" would be a better start, yet the religious overtones are good for any spiritual journey.

3 out of 5 stars Ho-hum.......2002-06-13

After reading the reviews I had high hopes when I bought this and TeDeum; however, he sounded like the Kenny G of classical. The overuse of the word "spiritual" as an adjective for his ambient, white noise left me skeptical after listening. I resumed listening to Schnittke, Messaien and I think I'll take my brother's advice and listen to Tournemire and some Brian Eno. This guy, Arvo Part, the masses will like, it's a good name.

5 out of 5 stars Divine for Sure..........2002-01-03

I was very skeptical of Part, having seen rave reviews (from Michael Stipe of all people), as I tend to discount rave reviews. I heard a few of his pieces over the years without being at all impressed. If you like JS Bach or Rachmaninoff's "Vespers," then it didn't seem like Part was offering anything substantially new or innovative. Then I heard "Litany" and was blown away by the time the first vocalist intoned "Oh Lord." This music is like a divine nuclear explosion, the sound of a soul calling out for God from the depths of its being (de profundis). Silly descriptions aside, "Litany" is among the most stunning, beautiful compositions ever created by human hands. Catholic, Muslim, Lutheran, Ahmadiyan, Sikh, Buddhist, Athiest, Wiccan, or whatever, "Litany" will make a believer out of you. Having learned to hear Part, I've also come to admire other works, even those I previously disliked.
Litany
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Whats the big deal?
  • Unbelievably heavy!
  • The sound and the fury
  • Destruction of your eardrums
  • I was actually disappointed.
Litany
Vader
Manufacturer: Metal Blade
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
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  1. Revelation
  2. The Beast
  3. Blood/Reign Forever World
  4. De Profundis
  5. Impressions in Blood

ASIN: B00004S5YJ
Release Date: 2000-05-09

Tracks:

  1. Wings
  2. The One Made Of Dreams
  3. Xeper
  4. Litany
  5. Cold Demons
  6. The Calling
  7. North
  8. Forwards To Die!!!
  9. A World Of Hurt
  10. The World Made Of Flesh
  11. The Final Massacre

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Whats the big deal?.......2007-04-13

Yeah, yeah, I know, I should be loving this band, as it combines European style death metal with New York style death metal with a touch of brutality, but there is something that just doesnt click for me. It may be Peter's lame growls, or the lack of tight riffs, but I just cant seem to get into this band. I can see why people like this band, but like Behemoths new album, it ends up being an overhyped, overrated, and boring ideal.

I gave this 1 star for Vader being one of the first bands out of the Soviet Union, 1 star for Doc being an amazing drummer, and 1 star for not being metalcore.

Overall, I suggest Immolation and fellow Poles Decapitated over this.

5 out of 5 stars Unbelievably heavy!.......2007-03-30

You know the warnings they give you about drugs?? Eventually you need more and more and then harder and harder to give you that high again?? Well that's how it is with my metal... as time goes on I need my metal to get harder and more extreme to satisfy me. This CD is for the die-hard metal addict needing the super heavy duty stuff--it's hard as hell and right from the first track "Wings" it's like being thrown against a wall. The drums are hit harder than David Ortiz hits a baseball-- wow.... HIGHLY recommended!

4 out of 5 stars The sound and the fury.......2007-01-19

Short of Vaders newest release (impressions in blood) this is Vaders most aggressive disc. There isn't a track on here that won't make you want to drive on the sidewalk. Plenty of anger...plenty of blasting...plenty of straight up nasty thrashing from the Polish death pedallers. My only beef with this disc...and even a few other Vader discs...is the mix of the drums. The drums are just a bit overpowering in the mix and a little too digital sounding. Past that this is good, furious death metal.

5 out of 5 stars Destruction of your eardrums.......2006-07-28

In my opinion, Poland's finest, Vader, is easily the most accessible death metal band. They are better than Slayer in terms of musicianship, talent and songwriting (not a diss to one of the best bands ever, but Vader owns you guys) and even if you hate death metal, you could love these guys because the vocals are not grunts or growls. If Vader isn't recording great albums, they are touring. They do hundreds of shows every year all over the world, and as a reviewer stated, they probably haven't slept in their own beds. Check out their live album from 1998 ("Live In Japan") to hear this act at their best. As the title dictates, this album will shred your eardrums with the dual guitar attack and the insane drumming. "Litany" is not an album that you get to hear nice melodic breakdowns or melody at all. This album is good if you are working out, need an alarm clock or just feel like blasting away your neighborhood and violently headbanging. As I stated already, the vocals are not grunts, so Vader will be easier to digest in that department. If you can't stand this type of metal, go back to your In Flames or such. This album can only be appreciated if you like it loud, fast and no hint of melody.

The production of this album is perfect for something this brutal. The vocals are pushed back and the drumming and guitars are overpowering, creating this ear-shredding sound barrier that would only work for a brutal album like this. The vocals, as stated above, are similar to Tom Araya, just with a Polish accent. The vocals are pushed back, but if you really want to listen to them, they are audible. The lyrics are awesome and some of the best in death metal. Read them...you will be amazed that a death metal band can dish out good lyrics. The bass is...you guessed it...inaudible. It could only be heard if every other instrument stops playing, which is rare. Don't buy this album if you need bass playing inspiration. The guitars are a dual attack, very reminiscent of Slayer. The solos are out of this world. And finally, the drums. Krzysztof "Doc" Raczkowski was his name, and he was in the band since they formed in 1986. He is fast, crazy and could rival any extreme metal drummer. He died in August 2005 after leaving the band earlier the year. His cause of death is mysteriously unknown, and will always be remembered as a huge inspiration in the metal community. He is among the gods of metal. Rest In Peace.

The album begins with one of Vader's best, "Wings". This song is brutal and has a great guitar solo. It is a metal classic and the album should be bought just for this song. The next song, "The One Made of Dreams", follows. It is a shorty, but it is brutal as hell and leads up to the next song, the legendary "Xeper". This is a longer song (for this album) and is very simple, but sounds so good. You could actually hear the bass a little here! The title track follows with a great chorus and more great drumming and guitar work. "Cold Demons" starts off with a little interlude and blasts into another great song off of this album. "The Calling" is the loser, which follows, and I find it quite monotinous, but it is still a descent song. The next three songs are a little under 2:00 long, and they are perfect examples of short, brutal blasts of energy. This is what a grindcore song would sound like without the noise. They are "North", "Fowards To Die!!!" and "A World Of Hurt". I can't call them filler, because they slay. The final two songs, "The World Made Flesh" and "The Final Massacre" follow the same formula of the entire album and really slay. That caps off this legendary 34 minute album. If you don't own this and love it loud and heavy, then go out, turn off your computer and pick this up. "Litany" may be their best album. Their other albums are great, but nothing can cause carnage like this one.

3 out of 5 stars I was actually disappointed. .......2006-06-13

Don't bash me simply because I didn't give Litany five stars like drgonzo insists. I'm giving this album a fair rating based upon the bar that Vader has already set with the other albums/masterpieces of their in my collection. Vader has got to be my favorite Death Metal band. Doc was an amazing drummer; Peter's vocals are unique in the genre and the assault of Peter's and Mauser's guitars make an incredible team. However despite the music on Litany being amazing the production could have been a lot better. The first thing one will notice is that the volume of Doc's bass drums are cranked up almost twice as loud as they should be. Though you get to see his amazing skill with his feet, this has a result of sometimes drowning out the rest of the band, Peter's vocals and the rest of his kit, especially when you are not playing on a really good sound system. The sound of the guitars and Peter's voice should have been turned up slightly louder as well.

The other complaint is that there are four songs that are shorter than 2 minutes resulting in a surprisingly short album. Time lengths usually don't bug me, but Vader normally doesn't have this many short songs. Of all the songs on this album, the short ones are not the songs that I crave to listen to; they are fast, but just not that memorable. My favorites would have to be Wings, Cold Demons, Xeper, and The Final Massacre (a song that they re-recorded and was originally on their first album, The Ultimate Incantation).

Even with these problems, the songs are still amazing. If you want music that is difficult to play, this is it. Doc's drumming has always been incredible and he will truly be missed. It's just unfortunate that the production isn't that good. If this album is ever remastered, this rating will probably get bumped to a 4 or even a 5. I saw these guys live the day before I graduated high school (nice way to celebrate, don't you think?) and they were amazing definitely one of the best shows that I've ever been to. If you haven't heard Vader before, I would suggest you start with their albums like Black to the Blind or any of their EPs (they are all amazing) before getting Litany. Vader will also be releasing a new album titled Impressions in Blood that should be released sometime in September so keep an eye out for that as well. Hoped this review helped.
Hail, Gladdening Light: Music of the English Church
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • One of the basics, plain and simple.
  • Eternal light
  • As Good As It Gets
  • Wonderful!
  • Rutter's Cambridge Singers at their best
Hail, Gladdening Light: Music of the English Church

Manufacturer: Collegium
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dering, RichardDering, Richard | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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AnthemsAnthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
HymnsHymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MotetsMotets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OratoriosOratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Faire is the Heaven: Music of the English Church
  2. Treasures of English Church Music
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  4. English Choral Music
  5. Praise to the Lord - Hymns From St. Paul's Cathedral

ASIN: B0000031HJ
Release Date: 1991-12-05

Tracks:

  1. Rejoice In The Lord
  2. Remember Not, Lord, Our Offences
  3. Come, Let's Rejoice
  4. When David Heard
  5. I Sat Down Under His Shadow
  6. These Are They That Follow The Lamb
  7. Christe Jesu, Pastor Bone
  8. O Beatum Et Sacrosanctum Diem
  9. Nunc Dimittis
  10. O Vos Omnes
  11. Factum Est Silentium
  12. Justorum Animae
  13. Hail, Gladdening Light
  14. A Hymn To The Mother Of God
  15. Hymn For The Dormition Of The Mother Of God
  16. They Are At Rest
  17. A Litany
  18. Nolo Mortem Peccatoris
  19. O Nata Lux
  20. Loving Shephard Of Thy Sheep
  21. The Lord's Prayer
  22. In Manus Tuas
  23. Bring Us, O Lord God

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars One of the basics, plain and simple........2005-10-17

I can hardly ever seem to find any choral CD anywhere that truly hits the spot, and the reason is clearly that this was one of my very first. Nobody who loves English cathedral music or English choral singing in general should be without this disc, it is a basic. Aside from the approaching the highest possible standards of choral singing and being an exemplar of the stereotypical English choral sound (straight-tone sopranos, not straight-tone EVERYONE, clear and floating tenors, etc.), most of the tracks on this recording are total gems.

Of particular note are the Howells and Vaughan Williams, several of the Renaissance pieces, probably the best rendition of Tavener's Hymn to the Mother of God out there, "A Litany" by Walton, and Harris' "Bring Me, O Lord God" is a stunningly gorgeous end to the CD that will give you chills.

5 out of 5 stars Eternal light.......2005-09-23

Recorded in the Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral, the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a duo of discs dedicated to Music of the English Church with this title, 'Hail, Gladdening Light', and its companion piece, 'Faire is the Heaven'. The title of this disc derives from modern hymn (Charles Wood, in the early twentieth century) set to a more ancient text - a good example of the pairing of the ancient and the modern, the traditional and the timely.

--Music--
This is all unaccompanied music, sung in a cathedral chapel acoustically suited for such music. There are six Latin motets, set by composers such as Taverner, Howells, Stanford, Vaughan Williams, Philips and Dering. Anthens and Introits include notables Tomkins and Purcell, and lesser-known composers such as Amner, Bairstow and Goss. Hymns span the range from old to modern, including a hymn by John Rutter himself. The disc ends with three prayer settings, including one by the underappreciated John Sheppard, and another from William Harris, whose hymn serves as the title to the companion disc. These anthems and hymns show a powerful range of music, yet show a consistent tone also that makes it rather distinctive of the music of the English church.

The group's power and grace is second to none, particularly when singing this kind of music in a place such as Ely Cathedral, arguably the most natural of settings possible.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words of each anthem or hymn. The notes for each piece also includes brief biographical information of the composer, and unique information about each work, when particular composers are represented more than once. One thing conspicuously missing is any biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the most basic of information (only two sentences!).

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices, many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages. Many are former members of the choir of Clare College and other Cambridge collegiate choirs (hence the name, Cambridge Singers). In the quarter-century since the founding, the Cambridge Singers have produced an impressive body of recordings.

5 out of 5 stars As Good As It Gets.......2003-05-27

What a beautiful CD of English sacred music. I can't imagine a more perfect group of musicians than John Rutter and the Cambridge singers to capture the full range of emotional and spiritual expression in these selections. This is as good as sacred music performance gets.

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful!.......1999-05-08

This CD is the most touching and beautiful collection of music from my homeland: it moves me beyond words.

5 out of 5 stars Rutter's Cambridge Singers at their best.......1998-09-12

Spanning the centuries from Tallis to Tavener, this collection is well-chosen and shows off the skills of the choir and its conductor. If you are a devotee of the "straight-tone" choir (as the Cambridge Singers always are), any of their CDs would be delight. However, this one (and a similar one, "Faire is the Heaven") is almost like a good back-rub: leaving you relaxed, invigorated, and wanting more. (Assuming English church music is on your short list of favorite genres.)

Of special note are the title cut, Rutter's own "Loving Shepherd", and the last, "Bring Us, O Lord" by Harris. They are exquisitely conducted and sung. You want the last 6-8 measures of "Loving Shepherd" to last forever.
Vespers And Compline
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • SOME OF THE MOST FAMILIAR CHANT FOR MONASTIC TRAVELLERS WHO ARRIVE LATE
Vespers And Compline

Manufacturer: Solesmes
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
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Similar Items:
  1. Salve Regina: Gregorian Chant
  2. Lost in Meditation: Meditative Gregorian Chants, Vol. 1
  3. Gregorian Melodies Popular Chant 1
  4. Chant II
  5. Gregorian Chants: The Best of the Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's

ASIN: B000003XGZ
Release Date: 1996-02-16

Tracks:

  1. Tolling of the Bell
  2. Antiphon & Psalm 109
  3. Antiphon & Psalm 110
  4. Antiphon & Psalm 111
  5. Antiphon & Psalm 112
  6. Reading and Brief Response
  7. Hymn & Versicle
  8. Antiphon SI OFFERS and MAGNIFICAT Canticle
  9. Litany and Chanting of OUR FATHER
  10. Collect and Conclusion
  11. Ringing of the Bells
  12. Introduction
  13. Psalm 4
  14. Psalm 90
  15. Psalm 133
  16. Hymn
  17. Conclusion
  18. Antiphon SALVE REGINA
  19. Chiming of the ANGELUS

Album Description

The complete Office of Sunday Vespers and Compline, plus antiphons, psalms, hymns, and the "Angelus."

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars SOME OF THE MOST FAMILIAR CHANT FOR MONASTIC TRAVELLERS WHO ARRIVE LATE.......2006-12-03

Please find here the Pater Noster with its traditional introduction explaining how we dare sing this prayer of the Lord, the Magnificat with its liberating and revolutionary message, and the comforting hour of OCmpline, the monk's ancient bedtime prayer, sung by heart in darkness. In fact the context of these prayers is lost in recording, sort of like wondering whether to genuflect when passing before a photograph of the elevated Host, so often pictured on book covers from Ratzinger to McBrien.

As one who lived years with these chants, I in particular, seeking solace by replaying the disk all night long and all day for peace and comfort and companionship, often pause wondering whether to bow where the bow is called for, and wondering why I can smell no incense. What is most disturbing however is not hearing the Pater prayed in the voices I once knew and cherished so much, so comforting. In fact I quickly discovered I must not play these while driving.

THere is a very specific time of day for each of these recordings, and it seems odd to hear Compline in bright daylight. I must pause and pray the Confiteor with them of course, and stop to bless myself at the blessings, wondering whether they are valid, but the most chillingly real moment, as one ever learns in a monastery, is the moment of silence, any moment of silence of course, but here at the moment when all of the monks silently pray the Pater Noster after the first words are intoned and before the final lines are chanted. I know what that silence bears, and in my own present silence join in prayer in community wityh all prayerful perons of the world at that moment. SIlence is universdal and eternal and thus really present, uniting me in prayer with those good and holy monks recorded years ago. And as the Pater Noster in Latin remains my main prayer, as Jesus ordered, I can still slip it in before the closing lines are intoned. I hope that sharing this with you now does not break our Lord's prohibition against public and show-offy prayer, but to pray in silence hidden in your room where no one can see.

As one who once knew the Office of Compline by heart (as it is chanted in the darkness of the evening), having recited it over a year with these same gentlemen, I found the quality of recording there frustrating in some verses, as the sound became quite muddy with the ambient resonance and reverberations, and the unity of voices tragically divided. Thus the listener might choose to follow this office with one of the many monastic diurnals available, including here on the amazon, as the home listener is free to light a lamp to read.

The central Biblical message and meaning nevertheless rings clearly:
Love, compassion, mercy, blessings and peace.
Faith Hope and Charity


Hear it here. Put it into practice at all times and places.

Allegri: Miserere; Palestrina / Willcocks, Kings College Choir
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • religious and content
  • I'm not religious,or anything,but this choir's AMAZING!!!
  • Definitive Recording of the Allegri Miserere
  • A brilliantly clear recording - you can hear the echos.
  • likely the best recording
Allegri: Miserere; Palestrina / Willcocks, Kings College Choir

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by AllegriAll Works by Allegri | Allegri, Gregorio | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Allegri: Miserere
  2. Great Choral Classics from King's Choir of King's College, Cambridge
  3. The Psalms of David from Kings Choir of Kings College, Cambridge, Vol. 1
  4. Palestrina: Missa Papae Marcelli, Missa Aeterna
  5. The Essential Tallis Scholars

ASIN: B00001IVQY
Release Date: 1999-09-14

Tracks:

  1. Miserere
  2. Stabat Mater
  3. Hodie Beata Virgo Maria
  4. Senex puerum portabat
  5. Magnificat a 8
  6. Litaniae de Beata virgine Maria

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars religious and content.......2004-10-06

In a brief retort to the reviewer from Bakersfield, I do rather wish that you might refrain from refering to matters of religion, litergy, and "ritual" as being "stupid." Obviously, it meant something to Allegri. I'm not angry, but I am a bit vexed that you might say such things about something that is the very center of my life. I dare say others might have been similarly hurt by your remarks.

Regarding the Misere, I've heard some say that this is one of the greatest choral pieces ever written and others say that it was only at the level of something that Mozart could have written at the age of 5, pointing to the repeating stanzas,etc. In point of fact, there is that rumor that it was he who transcribed the composition as an adolecent. As a musican, I can tell you that everything that is written is always based on what already exists. Music is a progression. I would say it is more likely that this piece stuck with Mozart as inspiration. Mozart is known for pieces with simple but beautiful melodic lines, which the Miserere's is quite gorgeous and simple in it's own right--but fantastic enough to raise the hair on the back of your neck. To those who fault the repetition, Allegri was quite right to follow it. When Psalms are sung--which the Miserere is Psalm 51--it is usual for a particular line to be chosen as a refrain of sorts and repeated intermitently every verse or every other verse. This tradition is maintained in churches of various traditions to this day--and, I'm guessing, in synagogues as well. (Psalms are understood to be songs attributed to King David.)

As for the relative simplicity of this piece, one must remember that at the time it was written, this was the cutting edge. It sounds simple to us, but that's because we live in a post Wagner and Stravinski age. Keep in mind that it wasn't so long before this piece was written that they only had the tenor and duplum lines. But really, none of that even matters. This piece was written as a sacrifice of work to God, and "God is the simplest of all." Further, I think that the piece compliments the subject matter of the Psalm beautifully. This Psalm is about sin and feeling repentence. It's a simple subject that is filled with very complex emotions and grace. I think that the grace comes through very clearly here.

As for the quality of the recording, I don't think that anybody can argue that King's College Choir isn't pretty hard to beat. I have heard of a recording that might rival this one where well trained male and female singers are used. Maybe one day, I'll know enough to comment on that recording.

5 out of 5 stars I'm not religious,or anything,but this choir's AMAZING!!!.......2004-01-18

Okay I'll break it down for you.I don't believe in religion,and that mean's any of them,but it seem's like the only time you can enjoy an amazing choir like this one,that just happens to be my personal favorite,is when it has to do with religion.I mean,can't people just like choir's for the sake of liking choir's,without it having to be religious,and stuff.For example if anyone ever see's me at King's college,I'm not there for any stupid rituals or anything,keep in mind that's only if they even do that kind of stuff.I'm there for the sole purpose of hearing this choir.I mean they have so many layer's when they sing,that it's just amazing.With beautiful female high's,that are pretty much the best that I've ever heard,plus equally amazing male vocal's,singing the lower notes,but still,I'd have to say their biggest strength is when they seemingly go off in totally different direction's vocally,with both group's of males,and females,and still manage to weave it together into like a very tight quilt.I highly recommend this choir,over all the rest of them,and also,if you just like choir's without the religious stuff,then maybe you'd like something simular,but heavier,with speed,and distorted guitar's,and not to mention great musical talent,you should probably try something like Epic power metal band's,like Therion,Rhapsody,Blind Guardian,and maybe even the group's Dargaard,and Nightwish...

5 out of 5 stars Definitive Recording of the Allegri Miserere.......2002-05-16

This recording of the Allegri Misere is one of the most beautiful that I've ever heard, or indeed hope to hear. It is absolutely amazing.

4 out of 5 stars A brilliantly clear recording - you can hear the echos........2001-10-27

I love Palestrina, but most of all I love the Allegri Miserere.

I bought the CD to replace an earlier version (performed by the St.John's College Choir)and I was really quite delighted.

The first surprise was to hear the Allegri piece in English. It's good; very good. Not as good as it is in Latin, but still fits the music well. The quality of this recording is breathtaking. You can genuinely sense the atmosphere of the recording space ... the voices simply fade away to nothing in the heights of the building. And the voices you hear seem like the voices of angels.

Similarly, the Palestrina pieces are exceptionally well performed and produce.

However, the real gem (and it's a diamond) is the Allegri. If ever there was a piece of music that can soothe ruffled brows it's this. Let the boys' voices life you to heaven like the soft, gentle wings of angels. Come home stressed, make a cup of hot chocolate, close the curtains, dim the lights and let the sound soothe you.

5 out of 5 stars likely the best recording.......2001-04-22

The story of Allegri's "Miserere" Mass has been told time and again, but warrants one more telling. Allegri was commissioned by then Pope Urban VIII to write this piece to be sung exclusively in the Sistine Shapel during Holy Week. This has been the case every year since 1638. The piece itself was written between 1630-38. On Wednesday and Good Friday during Holy Week, this Mass would be sung after 26 candles were extinguished, leaving a solitary one burning. This tradition holds true to this day.

The Mass was to be performed only in the Sistine Chapel, and up until Mozart's famous visit to the Chapel in 1770, only 3 written copies of the Mass were known to exist. Anyone else who copied it was either excommunicated, killed, or both. Mozart heard the Mass on that Wednesday, would write the Mass from momory that evening, then hear it again on Good Friday to correct a few errors. He was done at that point, and the piece was returned to Vienna, where it could be shared with the world. (This is a very abbreviated version of a fascinating story)

Thanks to Mozart, we can relish in the brilliance of Allegri's Mass, and this 1963 version is arguably the finest recording of it. The solo is maturely handled by treble Roy Goodman, and is central to the success of the recording. The re-mastering of this classic recording only enhances its beauty, wonderfully bringing out its delicate intricaces.

This recording, paired with several pieces by Palestrina, is well worth the mere $... asking price. It is worth much more, in my book, so give this classic Mass a listen, and be amazed.
Karol Szymanowski: Stabat Mater/Litany/Symphony No.3
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • A "Must Own"
  • Okay, not great
  • Polish is difficult :)
Karol Szymanowski: Stabat Mater/Litany/Symphony No.3

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Szymanowski: Violin Concertos 1 & 2
  2. Szymanowski: Harnasie; Orchestral Songs
  3. Szymanowski - King Roger · Symphony No.4 / Sir Simon Rattle
  4. Szymanowski: Symphonies #2-4, Harnasie, 2 Mazurkas, Concert Overture in E
  5. Karol Szymanowski: Piano Sonata No. 3; Métopes; Masques

ASIN: B000002RU8
Release Date: 1994-06-21

Tracks:

  1. Stabat Mater, Op.53: I. Mother bowed with grief appalling must thou watch, with tears slow falling.. - Elzbieta Szmytka/Florence Quivar/John Connell
  2. Stabat Mater, Op.53: II. Is there any, tears withholding Christ's dear Mother thus beholding, in... - Elzbieta Szmytka/Florence Quivar/John Connell
  3. Stabat Mater, Op.53: III. Love's sweet fountain, Mother tender, haste this hard heart, soft to... - Elzbieta Szmytka/Florence Quivar/John Connell
  4. Stabat Mater, Op.53: IV. In The keeping, watching, weeeping, by the cross may I unsleeping... - Elzbieta Szmytka/Florence Quivar/John Connell
  5. Stabat Mater, Op.53: V. Maid immaculate, excelling, peerless one, in heav'n high dwelling, make... - Elzbieta Szmytka/Florence Quivar/John Connell
  6. Stabat Mater, Op.53: VI. May his savred cross defend me, he who died there so befriend me... - Elzbieta Szmytka/Florence Quivar/John Connell
  7. Litania Do Marii Panny, Op.59: Litany to the Virgin Mary: Twelve-toned cithara whose strings are... - Jon Garrison
  8. Litania Do Marii Panny, Op.59: Litany to the Virgin Mary: Like a dwarf bush, a dark jumper... - Jon Garrison
  9. Sym No.3, Op. 27, Song of the Night: Oh, do not sleep, friend, through this night... - Jon Garrison
  10. Sym No.3, Op.27, Song of the Night - Jon Garrison
  11. Sym No.3, Op.27, Song of the Night: Such quiet, others sleep... - Jon Garrison

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A "Must Own".......2007-02-08

In the mid-1980s someone gave me a ticket to an L.A. Philharmonic concert with Simon Rattle the guest conductor. Being a Mahler enthusiast, I was looking forward to the 2nd Symphony, but it was preceeded by a performance of the Szymanowski Stabat Mater that was so thrilling that I barely listened to the Mahler. Why this incredible piece is not so widely known is beyond me. Since that introduction, I sought out three different recordings of the Stabat Mater until this EMI recording conducted by Rattle was finally released. It was no disappointment! I only wonder why it took them so long to get around to recording this marvelous performance.

As for the 3rd Symphony, I think the Rattle performance is at least as good as the wonderful recording by Antal Dorati (which I believe is out of print).

If you don't know Szymanowski's music, this is a fine place to begin.

3 out of 5 stars Okay, not great.......2006-06-25

It you like choral music, this work in Polish by Szymanowski might interest you. I'm glad I tried the music, but in the end, I don't find it that special. Others may be inspired by the religious feeling expressed here. But I found the music boring in places. Overall, it certainly failed to measure up to the classics among devotional compositions, including of course Handel's Messiah, as well as Beethoven's less-well-known Missa Solemnis Catholic mass, among others.

4 out of 5 stars Polish is difficult :).......2006-03-07

This charming work by little known polish composer, Szymanowski, can be sung in polish or in latin. Here they chosed to sing it in polish. The choir sings polish vowels well, but the soloists (except polish soprano) have problem with it, especially a baritone soloist. For foreign listener it's not big deal, but it seems to me, that it makes them singing more silent ( loud baritone parts ) and forced, uneasy. Particullary, baritone's parts are sometimes hard to hear when the orchestra is playing forte at the same time. But after all, the performers feel the music and capture the mood of it properly. We get the sadness, sympathy and devotion hidden in this work. In my opinion, Szymanowski's best one.
Szymanowski: Stabat Mater/Litany To the Virgin Mary/Symphony #3 'Song of the Night' - Sir Simon Rattle, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra & Chorus
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Szymanowski: Stabat Mater/Litany To the Virgin Mary/Symphony #3 'Song of the Night' - Sir Simon Rattle, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra & Chorus

    Manufacturer: EMI Classics
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by SzymanowskiAll Works by Szymanowski | Szymanowski, Karol | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Szymanowski: Harnasie; Orchestral Songs
    2. Szymanowski: Violin Concertos 1 & 2
    3. Rawsthorne: String Quartets
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    5. Music of Peter Lieberson: Rilke Songs, The Six Realms, Horn Concerto

    ASIN: B000I2ISN6
    Release Date: 2006-10-03

    Tracks:

    1. I. Mother Bowed With Grief Appalling Must Thou Watch, With Tears Slow Falling, On The Cross Thy Dying Son! Through My Heart, Thus Sorrow-riven, Must That Cruel Sword Be Driven, As Foretold - Oh Holy One! On, How Mournful And Oppressed Was That Mother.....
    2. II. Is There Any, Tears Withholding, Christ's Dear Mother Thus Beholding, In Woe - Like No Other Woe! Who That Would Not Grief Be Feeling For That Holy Mother Kneeling - What Suffering Was Ever So? For The Sins Of Every Nation She Beheld His...
    3. III. Love's Sweet Fountain, Mother Tender, Haste This Hard Heart, Soft To Render, Make Me Sharer In Thy Pain. Fire Me Now With Zeal So Glowing, Love So Rich To Jesus, Flowing, That I Favour My Obtain, Holy Mother, I Implore Thee, Crucify This Heart...
    4. IV. In Thy Keeping, Watching, Weeping, By The Cross May I Unsleeping Live And Sorrow For His Sake. Close To Jesus, With Thee Kneeling, All Thy Dolours With Thee Feeling, O Grant This - The Prayer I Make.
    5. V. Maid Immaculate, Excelling, Peerless One, In Heav'n High Dwelling, Make Me Truly Mourn With Thee. Make Me Sighing Hear Him Dying, Ever Newly Vivifying The Anguish He Bore For Me. With The Same Scar Lacerated, By The Cross Enfired, Elated, Wrought By...
    6. VI. May His Sacred Cross Defend Me, He Who Died There So Befriend Me, That His Pardon Shall Suffice. When This Earthly Frame Is Riven, Grant That To My Soul Be Given All The Joys Of Paradise!
    7. Twelve-toned Cithara Whose Strings Are From Heaven, The Sound Of Human Speech To My Ear Restore Anew.
    8. Like A Dwarf Bush, A Dark Juniper Is My Faith. O Allow It To Grow, O Lady On High, Further Towards Heaven.
    9. I: Moderato Assai - Oh, Do Not Sleep, Friend, Through This Night, You Are Soul, While We Are Suffering Through This Night. Banish Slumber From Your Eyes! The Great Secret Is Revealed In This Night. You Are Jove In The High Heavens, Round Heaven's... - Jon Garrison
    10. II: Vivace, Scherzando - Jon Garrison
    11. III: Largo - Such Quiet, Others Sleep...I And God Alone Together In This Night! What A Roar! Joy Arises, Truth With Gleaming Wing Is Shining In This Night! Do Not Sleep, Friend, If I Slumbered Until Sunrise, I Should Never, Never See This Night Again!.... - Jon Garrison

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