This disc contains
18 hymns in a range of styles with an
emphasis upon the traditional. There
are a number of arrangements by Stephen
Darlington, Ralph Allwood and Howard
Goodall, amongst others. In general
terms, the choir of Christ Church Cathedral
achieve a wide degree of variety for
instance through solos, verses for boys
only or men, re-harmonisations and descants.
The Rieger organ is well handled by
the Sub-Organist, Clive Driskill-Smith,
who uses upperwork sparingly and concentrates
on the less harsh foundation tone. The
blend with the voices is therefore more
satisfactory. There is a good sense
of line and phrasing, and the modulations
from hymn to hymn have been carefully
considered. A CD of entirely hymns is
a difficult formula, so listening in
small sections is likely to be much
more satisfying.
There are many highlights.
Nothing is overstated or outlandish,
and the singing has a very pleasing
polished and bright sound. Amazing Grace
opens with a discreet organ accompaniment,
solos and an unusual calmness. Let us
with a Gladsome Mind exemplifies the
well-blended and, when required, gutsy
tone especially from the men. The phrasing
of the organ part (breaking with the
voices at the end of each phrase) is
a matter of personal taste, although
sometimes I would have wished for a
continuity in the organ sound whilst
the voices breathed. Tempi are generally
quite stately which does aid very clear
dictation. The trebles have the ability
to vary their articulation which also
contributes to the success of this recording.
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross is
in a very pleasant arrangement by Goodall,
with organ introduction and interludes,
an a cappella verse with new harmonies
and a strong last verse in unison. His
setting of Morning has Broken is also
fresh, in D flat major (unusually) and
with rhythmic variations in the melody.
The Allwood arrangements are also successful,
with strong descants (for example Nun
Danket) and a fanfare for Holy, Holy,
Holy! The disc ends with a modern setting,
Nkosi Sikelel iAfrica, arranged by
Goodall.
The booklet accompanying
the recording is comprehensive containing
programme notes, full texts for all
of the hymns, and notes about the performers.
Highly recommended.
Graham Mark Scott
Choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford/Stephen
Darlington 
