John Sheppard - John Sheppard: Media vita (LP)

Immerse yourself in the sacred and captivating world of Renaissance polyphony with John Sheppard's "Media Vita." Released on February 2, 2010, this album is a testament to Sheppard's mastery of choral composition, offering a profound and spiritually uplifting experience. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, the album features seven intricate and beautifully woven pieces, each showcasing Sheppard's unique ability to blend complex vocal lines with devotional text.

The album opens with "Gaude, gaude, gaude Maria," a joyous anthem that sets the tone for the spiritual journey ahead. It continues with the familiar and powerful "The Lord's Prayer," followed by "I give you a new commandment," a piece that highlights Sheppard's skill in creating harmonically rich and emotionally resonant music. The title track, "Media Vita," is a standout piece, demonstrating Sheppard's ability to convey deep spiritual longing through his music.

"Christ rising again" brings a sense of triumph and renewal, while "Haste thee, O God" adds a sense of urgency and plea. The album concludes with the grand and majestic "Te Deum," a fitting finale that leaves a lasting impression.

Recorded by harmonia mundi, this album is a must for fans of Renaissance choral music and those seeking a deeper understanding of John Sheppard's contributions to the genre. The precise and expressive performances bring Sheppard's compositions to life, making "Media Vita" a truly enchanting and memorable listening experience.