“…They [Nordic Voices] display a remarkably tight blend and ensemble. These six singers are evidently so accustomed to singing together that their combination is like a single highly disciplined instrument. Within the narrow band of the present repertory, they are warmly expressive in their singing-in contrast to choirs that seem to cultivate a dispassionate style. Perhaps the most moving performance here is Gesualdo’s ‘Tenebrae Factae Sunt’, which concludes the program. They display extraordinary control in the quiet, sustained writing of this piece. It leaves the listener breathless.”

William J Gatens

“…warm, consistent and moving.”

Anthony Pryer

“Chandos’ excellent recording is entirely sympathetic to the superb singing, with a wide, well-defined stereo spread and perfect proportion between presence and resonance in the marvellous church acoustic. This disc is recommendable on all levels.”
*** Recording of the Month ***

Dominy Clements

“There’s a simple eloquence about the singing, part product of refined corporate musicianship, part of allowing expressive effects to speak naturally without affectation. Top-class work from Norway’s leading vocal ensemble”

Andrew Stewart

“The six-voice Norwegian ensemble sings with purity and expressivity…”

D James Ross

“All of the singers are very expressive and clearly have formidable techniques, something that is especially noticeable with the sopranos Tone Elisabeth Braaten and Ingrid Hanken who manage Robert White’s high tessitura with ease. I also like the solid low-notes from bass Njål Sparbo which underpin the performances and lend an important sense of gravitas to some of the more difficult passages in Gesualdo’s Tenebrae factae sunt, for instance. This is actually one of the most convincing recordings of his work that I have heard…With the combination of thoughtful programming and skilful singing Nordic Voices remind us that these Lamentations have a relevant message in today’s world. Using lamentations to signify hope in this way not only makes for a beautiful album but also gives us listeners much to think about.”

Ed Breen

“The pieces collected here are all lessons and responsories written for the Tenebrae liturgy, which is celebrated during the last three days of Holy Week. The program is more diverse than it might seem at first glance: Robert White’s Tudor reserve contrasts with Palestrina’s and Victoria’s Mediterranean intensity, and Gesualdo’s crazy tessitura and
chromaticism and emotional turmoil make everything else seem tame by comparison. Great program, great singing, great sound.”

Rick Anderson