A superb recording of chant forms known to few in the West. Powerful, beautiful, and testament to what unaccompanied and undoctored human voices can do.

The Patriarchal Choir, Moscow was formed in 1983, and consists of professional singers, both men and women. The choir take part in the services of the Moscow Church of the Resurrection, basing its work on old Russian choral tradition, from the 17th century to works of bortnyansky, Rachmaninov and others. The Choir began touring abroad in 1987. 'Folk Songs' features 17 a cappella songs; some of our favorites are 'Down the River Mother Volga,' 'In The dark forest,' 'The bell tolls,' 'O, the sweet night,' 'Do not reproach me, do not blame,' 'The troika-mail is running,' 'Along the river' and 'Dark Eyes.' There is tremendous depth of feeling here; wonderful solos supported by solid background harmonies. A powerful and moving CD!