Reviewed by Liz Knowles

Every year, cathedrals and churches are packed at Christmas for carol services and concerts. This CD traces a typical programme starting with the solo choirboy singing the first verse of Once in Royal David's City. Old favourites like In the Bleak Midwinter, I Saw Three Ships, The Coventry Carol, O Come All Ye Faithful, and Hark The Herald Angels Sing feature. Less familiar carols, many with a special connection with Hereford Cathedral - arrangements or compositions by former organists or lay clerks (the men who sing the parts other than the top line or tune) make this more than just another carol album. The brief sleevenotes impart an amazing amount of information, and the choir of 1997 are duly credited, It s a very nice selection, spanning seven centuries and pan-European. The perfect Christmas gift.

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