This delightful CD is a recording of a style native to the island of Sardinia known as "Cantu a Tenores." Thousands of years of tradition have evolved into a specific and defined structure, based upon four parts, and the familiar triadic intervals, plus lead; the scales are modal, and repetitive microphases are used as an underpinning to the lyrical content. What is most obvious to the ear are the rich harmonic overtones, creating a depth that belies the notion of a mere four voices. The joy-or sorrow-of amore and praises to the divine are the thematic concerns. An unusual and most pleasant musical interlude. |