James MacMillan - MacMillan: Tenebrae Responsories & Other Choral Works (LP)

Dive into the profound and stirring world of James MacMillan's choral compositions with this captivating album, released in 2013. The Westminster Cathedral Choir, renowned for their exquisite vocal prowess, joins forces with the esteemed Scottish composer to present a collection of works that are as spiritually resonant as they are musically compelling.

At the heart of this album lies MacMillan's dramatic setting of the Tenebrae Responsories, a series of pieces traditionally performed during the last three mornings of Holy Week. This work, marked by its searing intensity and innovative choral effects, echoes the composer's earlier masterpiece, "Seven Last Words from the Cross." The responsories are complemented by a selection of other choral works, each showcasing MacMillan's distinctive style, which is characterized by its powerful, passionate, and luminous qualities.

The album opens with "Tu es Petrus," a strong and confident statement that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Other highlights include the hauntingly beautiful "Tenebrae Responsories: I. Tenebrae factae sunt" and the triumphant "Ecce sacerdos magnus." The album also features contributions from London Brass, adding a rich, textural depth to the choral arrangements.

Whether you're a longtime admirer of MacMillan's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The meticulous attention to detail, the profound spiritual depth, and the sheer beauty of the music make this a standout release in the choral genre.