"Music for the King of Scots: Inside the Pleasure Palace of James IV" by Anonymous is a captivating journey into the musical world of Renaissance Scotland. Released on April 2, 2021, this album is a meticulous re-creation of music that would have been heard in the Chapel Royal of Linlithgow Palace, the pleasure palace of the kings and queens of Scotland. The centerpiece of the album is the anonymous "Catherine Wheel Mass," a modern nickname for the Missa Horrenda subdenda rotarum machinamento, previously known as Missa Deus creator omnium. This intricate and powerful mass is performed by The Binchois Consort, conducted by Andrew Kirkman, with a duration of 36 minutes and 50 seconds.
The album also features the "Magnificat" and "Ave Maria, mater Dei" by William Cornysh, adding to the rich tapestry of sacred music from this period. The recording was done in September 2019 at Genesis 6 Studio, York University, and the album has a total duration of 55 minutes and 17 seconds.
This album is not just a collection of beautiful medieval and chamber music pieces; it's a historical and technological reconstruction of the acoustic environment of Linlithgow Chapel, offering a unique listening experience. The Binchois Consort, known for their expertise in Renaissance music, brings these pieces to life with stunning clarity and precision. Whether you're a fan of medieval music, chamber music, or simply appreciate the beauty of Renaissance compositions, this album is a must-listen. Dive into the world of James IV and experience the music that once echoed through the halls of his pleasure palace.
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