Voices: Chant from Avignon – The Benedictine Nuns of Notre-Dame de L’Annonciation – Decca B0015000, 67:34 ****:
The Benedictine community of Notre-Dame de l’Annonciation was founded in 1979, making it a very modern community indeed in the grand scheme of things. The nuns lead a contemplative life, withdrawn from the world, and follow the rule of St. Benedict. They sing their divine offices seven times a day in Gregorian chant.
This album presents some of the more popular (if such is the word) or famous pieces of chant organized among four different categories: Overture, Sadness in Life, Stay with Us, and Burning Hearts, organized around the gospel account of the disciples of Jesus on the road to Emmaus. We hear the lamentations of Jeremiah, Adoro te by Thomas Aquinas, Come Holy Spirit, Ubi caritas, Dies Irae, and much more, all sung beautifully by these dedicated and musically inspired nuns. The interpretations are all in accordance with the best chant traditions, completely without affectation or innovation.
The sound is gloriously resonant and comforting, perfectly appropriate for this type of liturgical setting. I was quite surprised when this disc arrived, seeing as it is a production from Decca—I hope this bodes well for their future plans in this type of music. The accompanying booklet notes and production values are first rate. Easily recommended!
— Steven Ritter
