34. Watson, Katherine "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, convertere ad Dominum Deum tuum"
Description:
Runningtime: 00:00:00, Labelcode CDA68093
This CD brings together two luminous pillars of French Baroque sacred music: "L'Apothéose de Lully" and the "Leçons de Ténèbres", interpreted by Jonathan Cohen and his ensemble Arcangelo. With their hallmark refinement, transparency and expressive depth, Cohen and Arcangelo reveal the rhetorical drama, spiritual intensity and exquisite ornamentation that define this repertoire. The recording combines highly detailed ensemble work, flexible tempos and a warm, clear sound image that lets every vocal line and instrumental color unfold naturally. Particularly striking is the balance between scholarly awareness of historical performance practice and an immediate, emotional access that makes the music vivid and moving even for listeners new to the French Baroque style. The carefully judged acoustics and nuanced dynamic range underline the meditative character of the "Leçons de Ténèbres" while giving the more ceremonial elements of "L'Apothéose de Lully" an almost theatrical presence. Jonathan Cohen, founder and artistic director of Arcangelo, is one of the leading conductors of his generation in early and Baroque music. With Arcangelo he has built a reputation for stylish, characterful performances and a distinguished discography that has earned international acclaim, including prestigious award nominations and wide critical praise for the ensemble's precision and emotional intensity. Arcangelo's collaborations with top vocal soloists and its appearances at important festivals and concert halls have firmly established the group as a reference in historically informed performance. The label Hyperion is renowned worldwide for its carefully curated classical catalog, superb recording quality and artist-led projects that often explore less familiar repertoire. Since its founding, Hyperion has become a benchmark for discerning listeners, with many of its releases frequently cited in specialist press and award shortlists. The label is known for its meticulous production values, detailed booklet essays and long-term partnerships with outstanding musicians, making this CD not just an artistic statement but also a collector-worthy release for anyone interested in French Baroque sacred music and refined vocal art.