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The Atlanta Singers (David Brensinger, conductor) present Chantez Noel. The album's name is French, but these offerngs are much broader, covering Christmas music with origins throughout Europe and the United States. The music includes familiar carols, traditional holiday numbers, and a few newly-composed pieces, all in celebration of the Nativity.

When I picked up Chantez Noel, two things struck me right away. First, the Atlanta Singers are terrific; it is a rock-solid, mid-sized (16 members) ensemble with an excellent reputation. Second, I saw that Phoebe Snow was listed as one of the sopranos, and I wondered whether this was the amazing Phoebe Snow who sang "Poetry Man" back in the 1970s. Although I cannot answer that question with certainty, I can say that the Atlanta Singers are superb on this holiday outing. If you appreciate great a cappella renditions in classical stylings, then this album will be exactly your cup of tea. The music is cleanly executed, and the musicality is outstanding. Everything clicks.

The music selections are grand; the generous 25 tracks blend serious classical pieces with friendly favorites in a comfortable brew. I adore O Magnum Mysterium (the Tomas Luis de Victoria version), and here it is in all its glory. I played that one track three times, singing the alto part with gusto while wearing headphones (my husband came by, grimacing and asking me to tone it down). Other great cuts include the always lovely Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen, the warmly folksy Wexford Carol, and the gutsy spirituals (Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow, Go Tell It on the Mountain, Rockin' for the World). When classical groups attempt spirituals, the results can sound forced or anemic; neither is the case here.

Very, very nice. Chantez Noel is a winning collection of well-executed a cappella music--both classical and popular--for the holidays. This is serious music that should reach a relatively broad audience. Bravo!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2009)

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From the liner notes:

The Atlanta Singers:
Rob Aaron
Nancy Allstrom
William Borland
Rick Copeland
Timothy Gunter
Cheryl Lower
Robert Lower
Donna Matheny
Benjamin Pruett
Brenda Pruitt
Jenny Rawson
Linda Sharp
Phoebe Snow
Anne-Marie Spalinger
Frank Timmerman
DeWayne Trainer

Producers: Cheryl Lower & David Brensinger




From the Website:

The Atlanta Singers are a professional vocal ensemble known for their innovative programming and engaging performance style. Now in their 33rd season, the Singers have developed a reputation for excellence in the performance of a wide range of choral repertoire ranging from Renaissance sacred masterworks to Twentieth Century music. Comprised of some of the region's finest soloists who are dedicated to the art of small-ensemble choral singing, the Atlanta Singers are frequently heard on Performance Today.

The Atlanta Singers

Chantez Noel

Artist link

Track List