Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

The subtitle of this outstanding release reads 'Renaissance Gems And Their Reflections Volume 2: Tallis'. This reminds us that Volume 1 was released in 2016 and focused on William Byrd (1539/40-1623). Inevitably Volume 2 has to feature Thomas Tallis (c 1510-1585) and this recording entirely lives up to the standard set by the previous one. Once again we hear a selection of works by the original along with some carefully selected contemporary reflections upon them, several being specially commissioned for the choir and receiving their premiere recordings. Tallis was a prolific composer of both vocal and instrumental music and this collection concentrates of his church music. Running throughout are Tallis' settings of individual psalms from Archbishop Parker's Psalter. Those from an Anglican background will recognize some if not all as they are still sung. However there is a surprise at the end of the disc with a modern setting of Parker's translation of Psalm 150 by Kerry Andrews (born 1978). As well as Psalm settings we hear Tallis' famous "O Sacrum Convivium" ("O Sacred Feast"). During the recording of the disc in February 2016 the American choral composer Steven Stucky died. As a tribute his setting of the text from his 'Three New Motets On Memoriam Thomas Tallis' is included and a very fine tribute it is. Another well-known Tallis piece is Bob Chilcott's arrangement of the "Tallis Canon". Many choirs have this in their repertoire and in this recording we hear it as it should be sung. Indeed all the singing by ORA whether the full choir or the soloists under artistic director and conductor Suzy Digby is outstanding and the audio quality equally good. Thomas Tallis is one of the greatest of British composers and to have a selection of his work presented in this accessible way is to be applauded. However, for this listener, the standout piece is by Richard Allain (born 1965) with his "Vidette Micaculum" ("Behold The Miracle"). The Tallis version preceding it is special but Allain manages to surpass the master. Thoroughly recommended.

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