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How could I not love a group with a name like "Mediaeval Baebes"? The Baebes are a phenomenal vocal octet of women based in London, presenting music performed during the Medieval period. For me, a group like this is all about the vocal instruments and the quality of the harmonies; the Baebes pass every test with more than flying colors. The sound is heaven sent.

In truth, "Mistletoe & Wine" is not a pure holiday offering; in some respects, it is a "greatest hits" release of the Baebes' best from the past seven years. In fact, the CD contains only four new recordings--two brand new songs ("The Holly & the Ivy" and "In Dulci Jubilo") and two new versions of two Baebes' favorites ("Salva Nos" and "L'Amour De Moi"). Those of you who are longtime Baebes' fans should take note that "Mistletoe & Wine" may contain tracks you already own on other Baebes' releases.

The Christmas-related numbers include "The Holly & the Ivy," "In Dulce Jubilo," and "The Coventry Carol." The remaining numbers are breathtaking Medieval fare, which certainly do provoke an atmosphere that meshes nicely with the holiday season.

From my perspective, the true strength of vocal groups rises or falls based on their a cappella performances. On "Mistletoe & Wine," the a cappella numbers are riveting ("Gaudete," "There Is No Rose of Swych Vertu," "In Dulci Jubilo," and "The Coventry Carol"). The lightly accompanied "Blow Northern Wind" has magnificent harmonies that magically ebb and flow; I can almost feel the cold wind on my face.

What a special treat! I will treasure "Mistletoe & Wine" all season long. It is my first Baebes' CD, and its diversity will make it invaluable long after the holidays end. For those of you who haven't yet ventured out with the Baebes, think about giving this album a hug.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2004)

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From the liner notes:

All vocals performed by The Mediaeval Baebes:

Present: Katharine Blake, Teresa Casella, Audrey Evans, Marie Findley, Emily Ovenden, Claire Ravel, Cylindra Sapphire, Rachel Van Asch; and

Past: Sophie Evans, Nicole Frobusch, Ruth Galloway, Karren Lupton, Carmen Schneider, Nichole Sleet.
From the promotional materials:

"Mistletoe & Wine" is a seasonal album which traces the musical journey the Mediaeval Baebes have taken over the last seven years. It combines a selection of songs from their wide and varied back catalogue and four new recordings: two new songs--"The Holly and The Ivy" and "In Dulci Jubilo"--and new versions of two old favourites, "Salva Nos" and "L'Amour De Moi." These new, previously unavailable recordings were made under the watchful and loving eye of San Francisco-based producer Dawn Atkinson, in a studio in North London, and with the help and co-operation of many musician friends and acquaintances.

The material on "Mistletoe & Wine", as on The Baebes' previous albums, is a combination of traditional compositions, alongside original songs by the Baebes incorporating medieval text. The purity of voices shines through in their music, with lush, ambitious instrumentation and diverse, sophisticated vocal arrangements.

Mediaeval Baebes

Mistletoe & Wine

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