Howard Skempton's "The Cloths of Heaven - Choral Music and Songs" is a captivating journey into the world of minimalist choral music. Released on Delphian Records in 2008, this album spans a little over an hour and ten minutes, offering a serene and contemplative experience. Skempton, known for his delicate and introspective compositions, presents a collection of pieces that range from traditional settings to original works inspired by poetry and sacred texts.
The album opens with "Upon my lap my sovereign sits" and closes with "Recessional," framing a diverse set of choral works that include settings of texts from the Song of Songs, the Bible, and the poetry of Ralph Waldo Emerson and W.B. Yeats. Skempton's music is characterized by its simplicity and clarity, often using repetitive structures and gentle harmonies to create a meditative atmosphere.
Notable tracks include "Locus iste," a setting of the Latin text about the holiness of a place, and "Adam lay y-bounden," a traditional English text set to Skempton's minimalist style. The album also features the "Missa brevis," a concise yet profound setting of the Latin Mass, showcasing Skempton's ability to convey depth and meaning with minimal musical gestures.
"The Cloths of Heaven" is a testament to Howard Skempton's unique voice in the choral world, offering a collection of pieces that are both accessible and deeply moving. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply looking to explore the minimalist genre, this album is sure to provide a rewarding listening experience.
Tracks
Upon my lap my sovereign sitsHoward Skempton, Beth Mackay, Matthew Owens
O Saviour of the WorldHoward Skempton, The Exon Singers, Matthew Owens
Locus isteHoward Skempton, The Exon Singers, Matthew Owens
The Song of SongsHoward Skempton, The Exon Singers, Matthew Owens
O Life!Howard Skempton, Matthew Owens, Christopher Sheldrake
Nature's FireHoward Skempton, Matthew Owens
Adam lay y-boundenHoward Skempton, The Exon Singers, Matthew Owens
Magnificat & Nunc dimittis: MagnificatHoward Skempton, The Exon Singers, Matthew Owens
Magnificat & Nunc dimittis: Nunc dimittisHoward Skempton, The Exon Singers, Matthew Owens
Lamentations: How sits this cityHoward Skempton, Bartholomew Lawrence, Matthew Owens
Lamentations: I am the manHoward Skempton, Bartholomew Lawrence, James Akers, Matthew Owens
Lamentations: The anointed LordHoward Skempton, Bartholomew Lawrence, James Akers
Lamentations: For oughtest thou, O LordHoward Skempton, Bartholomew Lawrence, James Akers
Beati quorum viaHoward Skempton, The Exon Singers, Matthew Owens
Emerson Songs: MusicHoward Skempton, Bartholomew Lawrence, Matthew Owens
Emerson Songs: BrahmaHoward Skempton, Bartholomew Lawrence, Matthew Owens
Emerson Songs: PanHoward Skempton, Bartholomew Lawrence, Beth Mackay, Matthew Owens
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
Looking for "Howard Skempton: The Cloths of Heaven - Choral Music and Songs" on vinyl?
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.
