Levens’ musical output mostly comprised of sacred works, but being removed from the Paris scene and the taste for the grand motet, he excelled in polyphonic masses in the concertante style. On this world premiere recording we have two settings of the Missa pro defunctis that were probably intended for the Cathedral of St. André. The works are scored for four-part choir, four soloists with organ continuo bolstered by two bassoons and cello.

These are delicate works that are subtly drawn with great attention to text and filled with a melodic beauty that is irresistible. Levens achieves much with little gestures: the solo voices accompanied by bassoons and the juxtaposition of soloists and chorus, all held together by sweet, simple melody. I’ve not heard Sagittarius and Ensemble Vocal Arpège before I received this recording but they are a really fine ensemble. The soloists are all polished and expressive and the instrumental support is equally fine. This is a marvelous recording that introduces a rarely heard voice of the French baroque. CRAIG ZEICHNER

MESSE DES MORTS
CHARLES LEVENS
MICHEL LAPLÉNIE
Sagittarius, Ensemble Vocal Arpège
Etcetera KTC 1340
2007 - 59:04 min.