Complete Sacred Works, Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque choral music with Johann Kuhnau's "Complete Sacred Works, Vol. 2." Released on February 24, 2017, under the CPO label, this album is a testament to Kuhnau's mastery of the choral genre, offering a profound and spiritually uplifting experience. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, the album features a diverse collection of sacred works, each piece meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of reverence and awe.

The album opens with "Lobe den Herrn meine Seele," a series of eight movements that blend sonatas and choral pieces, showcasing Kuhnau's ability to create both contemplative and jubilant moods. Following this is "Christ lag in Todesbanden," a powerful and dramatic work that tells the story of Christ's resurrection, complete with triumphant "Alleluja" choruses. The album also includes "Gott der Vater, wohn uns bei," a sonata and choral piece that emphasizes the divine presence, and "Lobe den Herrn, meine Seele," another series of movements that explore themes of redemption and divine mercy.

"Schmücket das Fest mit Maien" rounds out the album with a series of 13 movements that celebrate the joy and beauty of spring, blending secular and sacred themes in a way that is both refreshing and uplifting. Throughout the album, Kuhnau's compositions are characterized by their rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and deep emotional resonance, making "Complete Sacred Works, Vol. 2" a must-listen for fans of Baroque choral music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating journey through the sacred works of one of the Baroque era's most talented composers.