This should be titled "Libera" by the Angel Voices, not the reverse. The
Libera experiment explored a range of ethereal, medieval and percussive
sounds, using modern recording studio techniques to bring clarity and
immediacy to the vocals. Then throw in some sensational soloists for a
sound that is edgy, challenging, sometimes thrilling. While the Asian
market loves it, meanwhile, back at home, apparently it doesn't sell. So
I can understand the economic motivation for change.
Listen closely to the background instrumentation. Anything that can't be
plausibly mistaken for a conventional orchestra or cathedral organ sound
is not allowed. The effect is quiet, subdued, dignified. And by Libera
standards astoundingly dull.
As for the kids' performances: still sensational. "Far Away" went
straight to the top of my playlist following its Asian release, and some
will like the bits of electronic strings in this remix. Some will find
the "little" voices of soloists Michael Horncastle and Tom Cully very
appealing, ranking with the best of the Angel Voices era. The mandatory
"Sanctus" has some interesting new twists. There is also some excellent
ensemble work to replace irreplaceable solo voicing in "Salva Me".
Performances are uniformly good. But "uniformity" is not what this needs.
If you were awaiting a more conventional choir sound, you've got it. You
will love this. I just miss the edge that made Libera truly unique.
Maybe it was time for Libera to explore new directions; yet by the
Libera standard, this is a relatively timid effort. I'm buying only one
copy of this one.