Lassus: Missa Vinum Bonum with accompanying motets

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of Renaissance polyphony with Orlande de Lassus' "Lassus: Missa Vinum Bonum with accompanying motets." Released on August 14, 2012, under the Musical Concepts label, this album is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of medieval and choral music. Spanning a concise yet fulfilling 68 minutes, the album features a collection of sacred works that showcase Lassus' mastery of the motet form and his innovative use of imitation in his Mass settings.

The album opens with "Musica Dei donum a 6," a motet that sets the stage for the intricate, interweaving vocal lines that characterize the rest of the recording. The centerpiece of the album is the "Missa ad Imitationem Vinum Bonum," a Mass setting that draws its thematic material from the motet "Vinum bonum a 8." This Mass is presented in its entirety, allowing listeners to appreciate the full scope of Lassus' compositional genius.

In addition to the Mass, the album features a selection of motets that span a range of moods and subjects, from the solemn "Tristis est anima mea a 5" to the jubilant "Laudent Deum a 4." The motets "Salve Regina a 6" and "Ave verum corpus a 6" are particularly notable for their expressive use of harmony and texture.

Throughout the album, the ensemble delivers a performance that is both technically precise and deeply expressive. The singers' blend is impeccable, and their collective tone is rich and resonant, evoking the sonorous acoustics of a medieval cathedral. The recording is clear and well-balanced, allowing each vocal line to be heard distinctly.

Whether you are a seasoned fan of Renaissance polyphony or a newcomer to the genre, "Lassus: Missa Vinum Bonum with accompanying motets" is sure to captivate and inspire. This album is a true gem in the world of choral music, and a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of Orlande de Lassus.