An LP of reinterpreted classics and new compositions from Welsh award-winners.
EMI Classics: 22 October 2007
Last updated: 25 November 2008
It seems slightly unfair to label this as a 'Karl Jenkins' album, as the performers here are the multi-award-winning brassists Cory Band and male voice choir Cantorion.
Tracklisting
- Cantilena: Ysbryd Y Mynyddoedd (Spirit Of The Mountains)
- Cysga Di (Go To Sleep)
- Delilah
- Abide With Me
- Suo Gan
- Danny Boy
- Son Of Maria
- Pie Jesu
- Hyfrydol
- Evening Prayer
- In These Stones Horizons Sing
- Flower Duet
- Myfanwy
- Agnus Dei
- Benedictus
- Lle Cana'r Eryrod
Of course, fellow Welshman Jenkins is the arranger and producer of the material included on this EMI Classics debut, and it's his name that looms largest on the cover.
Jenkins' powerful use of surging vocal arrangements infused with drama, and the sprinkling of modern touches into classical structures is here in abundance - it's a Jenkins work and no mistake.
The inclusion of the Cory Band generates a clean, brass sound and an almost-Christmassy atmosphere.
Some lesser-known Welsh-language pieces such as Cysga Di (Go To Sleep) vie with age-old favourites (Delilah, Abide With Me, Pie Jesu) but Jenkins' skill comes in its own, allowing each to breathe; not one piece overwhelms another.
He's on top form with this interperative collection, aided by some of the UK's very best musical and vocal performers.
Words: James McLaren
