"Songs of Innocence" is a captivating choral album that showcases the extraordinary vocal talents of Andrew Swait, a treble, accompanied by the renowned countertenor James Bowman and pianist Andrew Plant. Released on June 30, 2008, via Signum Classics, this album is a testament to the beauty of classical vocal music and features a diverse range of songs that highlight the unique timbre of a treble voice in repertoire that is rarely explored in this context.
The album spans a duration of one hour and one minute, encompassing 26 tracks that blend traditional and contemporary pieces. From the hauntingly beautiful "I Wonder As I Wander" to the lively "Tom Bowling" and the serene "Sure On This Shining Night," each track offers a distinct musical experience. The inclusion of lesser-known works, such as "Diaphenia" and "The Bayly Berith The Bell Away," adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the collection.
Andrew Swait's curiosity and passion for exploring new vocal territories are evident throughout the album. His collaboration with James Bowman, known for his rich and expressive voice, and Andrew Plant, a skilled pianist, results in a harmonious blend of voices and instruments. The album's production, overseen by Adrian Peacock, ensures that every note is crisp and clear, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the artistry involved.
"Songs of Innocence" is not just an album of songs but a collection of musical stories that span various themes and moods. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or someone looking to explore the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The combination of Swait's youthful voice, Bowman's seasoned artistry, and Plant's delicate piano playing creates a timeless piece of music that will resonate with listeners of all ages.
(C) 2008 Signum Records
Tracks
I Wonder As I WanderJohn Jacob Niles, arr. Benjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
In The Mornin'Negro Spiritual, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
DiapheniaBenjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
The OwlBenjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Witches' SongBenjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Chamber Music VBenjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
The RainbowBenjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
The OxenBenjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Little Sire WilliamTrad. arr. Benjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Cradle SongMichael Berkeley, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
The Bayly Berith The Bell AwayPeter Warlock, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Tell Me, Lovely ShepherdWilliam Boyce, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
The Slow TrainFlanders & Swann, arr. Andrew Plant, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Ca' The YowesTrad. arr. Benjamin Britten, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Silent WorshipGeorge Frideric Handel, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Who Is Silva?Charles Wood, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Caleno Custre MeTrad. arr. Andrew Plant, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Dirge For FideleRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Summer SunsetRoger Quilter, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Slow MarchCharles Ives, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Tom BowlingCharles Dibdin, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Matthew, Mark, Luke And JohnJohn Jeffries, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
My Bed Is A BoatMalcolm Williamson, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Sure On This Shining NightSamuel Barber, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait
Sweet And LowMalcolm Williamson, Andrew Plant, James Bowman, Andrew Swait