This volume in the extraordinary "Chants of of the Russian Emigres" series is graced with the equally extraordinary talent of the Male Choir of the Representation Church of the Holy Trinity-St. Sergius Monastery under Vladimir Gorbik's direction. The choir's masterful and subtle renditions, designed to bring out the reverent nature of the music, rather than call attention to themselves, present these works on a level that they scarcely could have received in the difficult conditions of the Russian emigration, where they were conceived. Rare photographs of the composers and informative biographies (in Russian and English) contribute to the rediscovery and appreciation of this fine choral music, which had lain mostly silent for too long. If previous volumes in the "Chants of the Russian Emigres" are any indication, this CD will quickly sell out and become a collectors' item! But quite apart from that phenomenon, the Male Choir of the Representation Church is truly a newly risen star among Russian male choirs! Its recordings (see also D132) are not to be missed!--V.M.
