Herbert Howells - Howells: Requiem; St Paul's & Gloucester Services etc. (LP)

Immerse yourself in the profound and serene choral works of Herbert Howells with this captivating album, released on March 23, 2012, by Hyperion. Spanning a little over an hour, this collection showcases Howells' mastery of choral composition, offering a diverse array of pieces that highlight his unique voice in the choral genre.

The album opens with "A Hymn for St Cecilia," a piece that sets the tone for the spiritual and contemplative journey that follows. It continues with "4 Anthems to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Op. 9: No. 4, Salve regina," a beautiful and reverent work dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The "Gloucester Service" and "St Paul's Service," each consisting of a Magnificat and Nunc dimittis, demonstrate Howells' skill in composing liturgical music that is both deeply moving and technically impressive.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Requiem," a powerful and poignant work that explores themes of loss, comfort, and eternal rest. The six movements of the Requiem, including "Salvator mundi," "Psalm 23," and "Requiem aeternam," are performed with exquisite sensitivity and precision, making this a standout piece in Howells' oeuvre.

The album concludes with "Take Him, Earth, for Cherishing" and "All My Hope on God Is Founded (Arr. Rutter)," two pieces that bring the collection to a thoughtful and uplifting close. Throughout the album, Howells' ability to blend traditional choral forms with his own distinctive style is evident, making this a compelling and rewarding listen for fans of choral music.