Landi But Not A Rover

Another gem from Christina Pluhar's wonderful ensemble L'Arpeggiata, once again augmented by the peerless voice of Marco Beasley. I've probably written enough in praise of both of these when considering earlier disks of theirs' in this blog. Suffice it to say this one is just as life affirming and joyful. The hook to hang the disk on this time is music associated with Stefano Landi, a late sixteenth / early seventeenth century player and composer at the papal court in Rome. The full title of the disk is Homo Fugit Velut Umbra, the hidden universe in the shadows, which hints at the age old dichotomy between sacred and sensual music. Beautifully recorded, there is a lovely baroque feel but L'Arpeggiata always manage to make the music sound timeless yet contemporary without ever resorting to crassness or bad taste. Marco Beasley only sings on some of the tracks this time, the other singers soprano Johannette Zomer, tenor Stephan Van Dyck and bass Alain Buet also do stirling work. Once again, highly recommended.