this CD is one of the very finest of this distinguished Naxos series

An interesting feature of the Josquin setting is his interpolation of a trope (Laeta dies) following the Credo and before the Sanctus using a non-liturgical text. The effect is undoubtedly dramatic at the centre of a work where the flowing lines of the polyphony have such a rich harmonic implication. The long Credo breaks free, with the polyphony becoming more animated, and so becomes the central focus of the whole Mass—and what a beautiful Mass it is; very beautifully sung and recorded here. The Ave Maria is used to create a tranquil mood before the Mass itself begins, and the very touching motet, Absalom, fili mi, makes a poignant coda. This is followed by the radiant elegy of Josquin’s contemporary, Jheronimus Vinders, with its soaring treble line, surely a fitting tribute. With full texts provided, this CD is one of the very fines of this distinguished Naxos series.