Another stunning CD from the fabled Gaudeamus label featuring the almost unknown name of Jacob Obrecht comes under this reviewer's hammer! I must confess that the constant interpositions and mystical auras that permeate such music hold a certain fascination for me and this one is no exception.
The 'Missa Sub Tuum Praesidium' is a complex work that features a harrowingly beautiful Kyrie that sets the ball rolling for a memorable composition. Edward Wickham's Clerk's Group is completely attuned to the style and turns out yet another brilliant performance.
'Salve Crux' and 'Salve Regina' are two lengthy motets that show Obrecht's style that supposedly made him one of the finest composers of his age. 'Factor Orbis' is also a stunning representation of the chant style that is a fitting conclusion to this outstanding collection. Scholars and aficionados of this style will surely need no prompting from me to acquire Obrecht's music in these splendid interpretations.
Copyright © 2003, Gerald Fenech