Immerse yourself in the rich, intricate world of Orlando Gibbons with "Gibbons: Consorts for Viols," a captivating collection of Renaissance music released on Linn Records in 2014. This album is a testament to Gibbons' mastery of the consort music form, featuring a diverse array of pieces that showcase his exceptional compositional skills.
Spanning a little over an hour, the album is divided into several sections, each offering a unique blend of styles and moods. The "Fantasias a 6" series opens the album with six intricate and expressive pieces, demonstrating Gibbons' ability to weave complex polyphonic textures. Following this, the "In Nomines a 5" series presents two pieces that highlight the composer's skill in creating evocative, contemplative music.
The "Virginals Music a 4 and a Madrigal a 5" section offers a delightful contrast, featuring lively dances and a haunting madrigal. The "Fantasies a 3" series returns to the intricate polyphony of the opening section, while the "Anthems a 6" series showcases Gibbons' ability to create powerful, dramatic choral music.
The album concludes with the "Dances and Divisions a 6" series, featuring three lively dances that showcase Gibbons' skill in creating engaging, rhythmic music. Throughout the album, Gibbons' music is brought to life by the exquisite playing of the ensemble, with each piece performed with precision and passion.
"Gibbons: Consorts for Viols" is not just a collection of beautiful music, but also a journey through the diverse styles and moods of the Renaissance period. Whether you're a fan of Renaissance music or simply looking to explore something new, this album is sure to captivate and delight.
