Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

This is a re-release of two albums that had previously been available on vinyl some 20 years ago and at less than 10 pounds represents good value even if you have the originals in your collection. Indeed, if you have any interest in English choral singing you will almost certainly have many of the anthems included on this CD. The work focuses on Benjamin Britten who contributes five pieces but several other composers associated with Cambridge are represented: Holst, Howells, Ireland, Stanford, Walton and Vaughan Williams. There is no John Rutter but this is understandable when we remind ourselves of the date of the original recording. Richard Marlow had built Trinity College Choir into one of the best-loved choirs of Cambridge and the recording of the Fauré Requiem was well received. The singing on this CD is also first class and it is only the familiarity of much of the material that prevents this from being graded as indispensable. However, the closing six songs by Britten's mentor, Frank Bridge, are short, sweet and unexpected. None could be considered church music but they are fascinating miniatures in their own right.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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