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The Sacred Flame - Cambridge Singers   

I'll be honest, my mental image of the Cambridge Singers is of rather heavy handed singing, suitable for John Rutter's jolly carols, but not exactly competition for the Sixteen. However in this collection of Renaissance and Baroque they have proved they can do subtlety too. The Monteverdi pieces bounce along with just enough lightness. There's a wonderful range of the best music here. Gesualdo's O vos omnes, for example, is full of 'he can't do that!' moments - it's electrifying. Buxtehude's chunky and jubilant Magnificat adds a little light relief among the exquisite likes of Victoria and Josquin Desprez... and it runs through neatly through Schütz to the (relatively) trendy 'new' music of Mr Bach.

All in all a great collection.

CDs by John Tavener

1944 -

Not to be confused with the sixteenth century sacred choral composer John Taverner, Tavener's music is a unique blend of the modern church tradition and the exotic rhythms of the Orthodox church.

At its worst, Tavener's music is so contemplative that it is, frankly, tedious. At its best, though it is haunting and hypnotic, bringing a chill to the spine when it is heard. Try some.

Christmas Proclamation - St. John's College, Cambridge.  

Here is a chance to hear Tavener at his best. This incredible value for money CD (at the last check only £4.99 in the UK) includes his two best-known pieces, the stunning The Lamb, as featured in the recent Orange mobile phone TV ads, and Song for Athene, which was used at Diana, Princess of Wales' funeral. But there's plenty more too - try, for example, Funeral Ikos - it's a wonderful CD, with a thoughtful performance from the choir of St. John's College, Cambridge. Click on a ‘See at’ button to hear a number of samples.

God Is With Us: Christmas Proclamation, Song For Athene, The Lamb

The Tiger, Magnificat, Nunc Dimittis, Funeral Ikos, Two Hymns To The Mother Of God: Hymn To The Mother Of God. Hymn For The Dormition Of The Mother Of God, Love Bade Me Welcome, As One Who Has Slept, The Lord's Prayer

Svyati 'O Holy One'