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This disc contains two sets of works by Henry Purcell, which, while unrelated, are nevertheless complementary. The six surviving organ pieces by Purcell are here played majestically by Davitt Moroney, well known for his harpsichord and organ recordings, especially of Bach and French composers. In addition, the ten known anthems for soprano and thorough bass are performed with organ accompaniment, and sung by Jill Feldman.

The overall tone of this recording is solemn and introspective. As can be heard in the first anthem, Thou wakeful Shepherd, Jill Feldman gives an emotional performance, eschewing any vocal pyrotechnics. She keeps her vibrato to a minimum, and the result is almost magical.

Sample 1: track 2 0’00"

As can be seen from the titles of some of these songs - such as In the black dismal Dungeon of Despair - the tone is not very gay. This is dark sacred music, and the lyrics are as desperate as they come:

In the black dismal dungeon of despair,
Pined with tormenting care,
Wracked with my fears,
Drowned in my tears,
With dreadful expectation of my doom
And certain horrid judgement soon to come:

Yet Feldman never sinks to the depths of despair and always manages to maintain a musicality that transcends the words.

Sample 2: track 6 0’00"

The organ works show a little-know side of Purcell. Listening in particular to the two versions of the Voluntary in D minor, one can hear a depth of music for organ that was rare even in his time. The second version, for double-manual organ, is a masterpiece, and is played very tastefully here.

Sample 2: track 10 0’00"

This is a very successful disc, which manages to combine two sets of works with similar tone to great effect. The use of organ accompaniment for the anthems highlights their dark tones, and the overall sound is very moving. Add to that the excellent playing by Davitt Moroney and Jill Feldman’s beautiful voice, and this is an essential recording in the Purcellian discography.

Kirk McElhearn

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