CD & Event Reviews

CD Review: Carols & Lullabies [previously released as Magnificat] (ChristmasReviews.com)

Having just completed my review of Chor Leoni's other seasonal offering (Yuletide Fires, also on christmasreviews.com), I approached this CD with the greatest anticipation. Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest does not disappoint. Chor Leoni (or "choir of lions" in Greek and Italian, respectively) is a magnificent a cappella men's ensemble, headed by director Diane Loomer, a true magic maker. The musicianship is first class, and the music is captivating on this classical album. Please note: this music is not pure a cappella; some level of instrumentation is provided throughout.

The 18 selections actually break down into three categories. First, there is Conrad Susa's Carols and Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest (tracks 1-10). Then, Chor Leoni presents Ottorino Respighi's Lauda per la Natività del Signore (track 11). The final seven cuts are Rupert Lang's Magnificat. Before playing the CD, I was familiar with nothing on the album, so this was an exciting safari across an unknown musical landscape. The adventure was well worth the trip! Keep in mind that Chor Leoni's massive (16 pages, not including the covers) liner notes provide quite the astute "tour guide," providing helpful background and lyrics.

Conrad Susa is an American musician who re-conceived traditional Spanish carols into a companion for Benjamin Britten's A Ceremony of Carols. The music is intensely lyrical and even fun! I especially enjoyed the rhythmic "Chiquirriquitin." My other favorite moments came from Rupert Lang's Magnificat; in particular, I loved the beautiful "Mary's Song" and "Suscepit Israel" (with mezzo-soprano soloist Mariateresa Magisano).

All in all, Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest is an excellent seasonal offering for adventurous classical music aficionados. It is slightly less accessible than Chor Leoni's Yuletide Fires, but is just as rewarding in its own right.

Carol Swanson, christmasreviews.com
reprinted with permission

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Magnificat
The musicianship is first class, and the music is captivating (more...)

Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest
The musicianship is first class, and the music is captivating (more...)

Posted by Carol Swanson on December 1, 1999 at 2:57 PM
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