Two venerable and ancient Christian musical traditions-the Byzantine and the Slavic-come together on this CD, along with traditional Orthodox carols from Ukraine, Lebanon, and... America. The musical richness of the Eastern Orthodox Christmas services has inspired a number of modern-day Orthodox composers to create new compositions and arrangements, 35 of which are recorded here for the first time, entirely in English.

Alongside a rich choral tradition, Eastern Orthodox liturgical services feature a number of solo chants, duets, and trios, which often stand out as the musical highlights of the particular service in which they appear. This landmark CD, the first by Archangel Voices, focuses upon these soloistic elements Orthodox services, drawing upon both the Byzantine and Slavic traditions, but sung entirely in English. The 20 tracks include some of the most spiritual and moving hymns from Annunciation, Great Lent, Holy Week, Pascha (Easter), Ascension, Pentecost, and the feast of SS Peter and Paul.

Easter (Pascha) is the 'feast of feasts'--the most important celebration of the Eastern Orthodox Christian year. The vibrant and majestic hymns and chants sung during Easter services-Paschal Matins, Divine Liturgy, and Vespers-are presented on this CD in 31 selections, both historical and newly composed, drawn from the Slavic and Byzantine traditions, all adapted into English. From the transparent melodies of Russian znamenny and Byzantine chant, to opulent 8-voice Baroque sacred concertos, this CD offers a glorious musical feast!