James Bowman - Songs for Ariel (LP)

Dive into the enchanting world of baroque and medieval music with James Bowman's "Songs for Ariel," a captivating collection released in 2005 under Satirino Records. This 58-minute album is a testament to Bowman's extraordinary vocal prowess, accompanied by the skilled Kenneth Weiss on piano and harpsichord. Recorded at the serene Abbaye de Saint-Michel en Thiérache in France, the album offers a rich tapestry of choral, classical, and operatic pieces that showcase the timeless beauty of these genres.

The album features a diverse range of tracks, from the hauntingly beautiful "Salve Regina" to the lively "Fairest Isle" and the whimsical "Songs for Ariel" from Shakespeare's "The Tempest," set to music by Michael Tippett. James Bowman's counter-tenor voice soars through compositions by Henry Purcell, George Frideric Handel, and other masters, creating an atmosphere of elegance and depth. Highlights include the intricate "Cantata 'Ho fuggito amore'" and the poignant "A Hymn to the Virgin," each piece meticulously performed to bring out the nuances of the original scores.

"Songs for Ariel" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the musical brilliance of the baroque and medieval eras. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises an enriching experience, filled with the enchanting melodies and harmonies that have captivated audiences for centuries.