Experience the sublime artistry of countertenor James Bowman in "Thus Angels Sung," a captivating collection of solo vocal works that span centuries and styles. Released on April 1, 2014, via Convivium Records, this 55-minute album is a testament to Bowman's extraordinary vocal range and interpretive depth, showcasing his mastery of classical, opera, medieval, and choral genres.
The album features a diverse array of compositions, from sacred works like "Thus Angels Sung" and "Oculi Omnium" to art songs such as "The Holy Boy" and "The Trees They Grow So High." Bowman's sensitive and elegant delivery breathes new life into these pieces, accompanied by the rich textures of organ and piano. Notable arrangements include those by Benjamin Britten and Ralph Vaughan Williams, highlighting the album's historical and musical significance.
"Thus Angels Sung" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through time, featuring works attributed to William Byrd, traditional folk songs, and compositions by notable figures like Edward Elgar and Gerald Finzi. The album's delicate balance of sacred and secular, old and new, makes it a standout in James Bowman's illustrious discography. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a serene and peaceful listening experience that underscores Bowman's enduring legacy as one of the world's finest countertenors.
2015 Convivium Records2015 Convivium Records
Tracks
Thus Angels Sung (Arr. for Solo Voice & Organ)Orlando Gibbons, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Oculi OmniumChristopher Moore, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Hide Not Thou Thy Face (Arr. for Solo Voice & Organ)Richard Farrant, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Sion's DaughterMalcolm Archer, James Bowman
The Holy Boy (Version for Piano)John Ireland, Malcolm Archer
My Little Sweet Darling (Attrib. W. Byrd) [Arr. for Solo Voice & Organ]Anonymous, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
I Saw a Maiden (Arr. E. Pettman for Solo Voice & Piano)Traditional, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Lullaby, Op. 57 No. 2 (Arr. R. Elkin for Piano)Cyril Scott, Malcolm Archer
6 English Lyrics: No. 4, Sweet and Low (Version for Solo Voice & Piano)Malcolm Williamson, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
When Jesus Christ Was Yet a ChildMalcolm Archer, James Bowman
Drop, Drop Slow Tears (Arr. for Solo Voice & Organ)Malcolm Archer, James Bowman
The Bellman's SongMalcolm Archer, James Bowman
Evenfall (Version for Solo Voice & Piano)Humphrey Clucas, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Dirge for Fidele (Arr. for Solo Voice & Piano)Ralph Vaughan Williams, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
The Trees They Grow So High (Arr. B. Britten for Solo Voice & Piano)Traditional, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
The Clown's Songs from Twelfth Night, Op. 65: No. 3, The Rain It Raineth Every DayCharles Villiers Stanford, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
How Should I Your True Love Know, Op. 30 No. 3Roger Quilter, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Sea Pictures, Op. 37: No. 4, Where Corals Lie (Arr. for Solo Voice & Piano)Edward Elgar, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
O Nata Lux (Arr. for Solo Voice & Organ)Thomas Tallis, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Corpus Christi Carol (Arr. B. Britten for Solo Voice & Piano)Traditional, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
5 Mystical Songs: No. 4, The Call (Arr. for Solo Voice & Piano)Ralph Vaughan Williams, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Turn Thy Face from My Sins (Arr. for Solo Voice & Piano)Thomas Attwood, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer
Come, Holy Ghost (Arr. for Solo Voice & Piano)Thomas Attwood, James Bowman, Malcolm Archer