De Lassus: Canticum canticorum

Immerse yourself in the divine and earthly passions of the Renaissance with "De Lassus: Canticum canticorum," a captivating album featuring the sacred and secular masterpieces of Orlande de Lassus. Released in 2016, this album showcases the composer's unparalleled ability to blend the spiritual intensity of Gregorian chant with the rich harmonies of choral music, creating a profound and moving listening experience.

The album presents a collection of de Lassus' motets based on the Song of Songs, a poetic dialogue between lovers that has been interpreted as an allegory for the relationship between God and the soul. These motets, sung by the renowned Chœur de Chambre de Namur under the direction of Leonardo García Alarcón, demonstrate the composer's mastery of polyphony and his deep understanding of the human voice. The album also includes a complete mass, "Missa super Susanne un jour," which showcases de Lassus' skill in crafting complex, interweaving vocal lines.

"De Lassus: Canticum canticorum" is a testament to the enduring power of Renaissance music, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic fervor of the era. With its stunning performances and exquisite recordings, this album is an essential addition to any lover of choral and medieval music. The album's duration is one hour and four minutes, providing a substantial and enriching experience for those who appreciate the beauty of Renaissance polyphony.

Orlande de Lassus, also known as Orlando di Lasso, was a towering figure of the late Renaissance, renowned for his prolific and diverse musical output. Born around 1532 in Mons, Belgium, Lassus's extraordinary vocal talents led him on a journey across Europe, serving various courts in Italy, France, and Germany. His compositions, numbering over 2,000, span nearly every vocal genre of his time, from sacred motets and Masses to secular chansons, demonstrating his unparalleled versatility and mastery of the polyphonic style. Lassus's music is celebrated for its deep connection to text, making it a profound and emotional experience for listeners. Often hailed as "The divine Orlando," his influence was immense, and his works were published more frequently than any other composer of his era. Lassus's legacy endures as one of the most celebrated and influential musicians of the Renaissance, standing alongside contemporaries like Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina and Tomás Luis de Victoria.