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Editorial Reviews

The title, like all good titles, sums it up: Christmas Eve Vespers at Westminster Cathedral. And in fact this disc does contain exactly that: performances of five seasonally appropriate psalms complete with matching antiphons and organ improvisations preceded by an Introit by Sweelinck, followed by a cappella choral works by Tallis, Victoria, and Schütz, and concluded with Langlais' celebratory organ work "Fête" as performed by the Choir of Westminster Cathedral led by Martin Baker with organist Matthew Martin. For more secular listeners, the alternation of antique chant, Renaissance polyphony, and twentieth century organ music may not be exactly what they had in mind when they thought of Christmas music. But for those who take their Christmas music straight, strong, and spiritual, this disc will do the trick. The Choir of Westminster, which on previous recordings has sounded sometimes a bit hard and often a tad sharp, is quite lovely here, with a clear tone and a smooth delivery. Baker leads consummately and profoundly musical performances -- his "Alma redemptor mater" is especially stirring -- and has assembled a cogent and compelling program. Martin's playing is exciting in the improvisations and triumphant in "Fête." Hyperion's sound is big, loud, and evocative. James Leonard, All Music Guide

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