Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of medieval choral music with Johannes Ockeghem's "Ockeghem: Masses, Vol. 2". This captivating album, released on January 3, 2020, under the Fra Bernardo label, is a testament to Ockeghem's mastery of the Renaissance polyphonic style. Spanning a generous 1 hour and 53 minutes, this collection features five complete masses, each a intricate exploration of sacred music.
The album opens with "Missa Mi-Mi", a work known for its complex and expressive writing, followed by the equally impressive "Missa Ecce Ancilla Domini". Ockeghem's "Missa Caput" and "Missa Cuiusvis Toni" showcase his innovative use of cantus firmus techniques, while the final mass, "Missa Prolationum", is a tour de force of rhythmic complexity.
Ockeghem, a Franco-Flemish composer of the 15th century, was renowned for his influence on subsequent generations of composers. His works, characterized by their intricate polyphony and harmonic richness, are a cornerstone of the Renaissance choral repertoire. This album is a must for any fan of medieval or classical choral music, offering a profound and moving listening experience.