I've been a fan of music such as Tallis and Byrd for some time but I'd put Weelkes top of my list. After listening to this CD perhaps you will see why. Weelkes loves his arching lines that soar up high and float back down again. All the parts get to do this but of course the treble line is most prominent in this respect and here it does it as seemingly-effortlessly as this music requires. The music is at times introspective, contemplative and relaxing and then at others vibrantly joyful, triumphant and uplifting.
The performance is as near to perfection as you could wish for. It is notably refreshing to find treble soloists who have been allowed to keep a relatively understated style so that they serve the music rather than risk it being the other way round.
The CD booklet offers a wealth of information on the music and Weelkes' colourful life as well as the words for all the pieces. It even has all this in French and German as well.
If this CD leaves you wanting more then seek out the Easter CD from Canterbury on the York Ambisonic label as it has a real treat hiding on it.
