By VB113889
23-Apr-2012

Rebel hymns from the 1700s  

Hymns have been with us for ages, though the liner notes only mention back to the 18th Century. There has always been a mix of secular and sacred elements in popular devotional song. Still this collection helps bring us back to an age where this mixture was causing waves.

The period instruments help shake off the preconceived notions we tend to attach to hymns - no organs here. The swing of the melodies seem to hint at dance tunes rather than the contemplative. They have a joy and freshness that picks you up, swings you round a turn and leaves you smiling if not laughing.

Having the piping sopranos of the Mellstock Band makes a change from Maddy Prior's lead alto voice. The men's voices have something of a rustic accent, reminds me of bush dances here in Australia.

All round a great collection for singing praise to God with joyful hearts and tapping feet.
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