James O'Donnell - Rejoice, the Lord is King: Great Hymns from Westminster Abbey (LP)

Experience the majestic sounds of Westminster Abbey with "Rejoice, the Lord is King: Great Hymns from Westminster Abbey," a stunning collection of timeless hymns performed by the renowned Westminster Abbey Choir under the direction of James O'Donnell. This album, released on January 5, 2014, under the Hyperion label, showcases the choir's exceptional vocal prowess and the organ's grandeur, creating an atmosphere of reverence and joy.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album features 22 tracks, each a beloved hymn that resonates deeply with listeners. From the familiar strains of "Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven!" and "Abide with Me" to the powerful "Jerusalem," every piece is performed with precision and passion. The album also includes lesser-known but equally beautiful compositions like "Love of the Father" and "Drop, Drop, Slow Tears," adding depth and variety to the collection.

James O'Donnell's expert conducting brings out the best in the Westminster Abbey Choir, while Robert Quinney's masterful organ playing complements the vocal performances beautifully. The combination of these elements results in a recording that is both uplifting and spiritually enriching.

Whether you are a fan of choral music, medieval hymns, or simply appreciate the beauty of Gregorian chants, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The meticulous attention to detail in the performances and the high-quality production ensure that each hymn is presented in its full glory, making this a standout addition to any classical music collection.