Leighton: Earth, Sweet Earth... & Britten: Winter Words

James Gilchrist, the renowned tenor, presents a captivating exploration of choral and requiem genres with his album "Leighton: Earth, Sweet Earth... & Britten: Winter Words." Released on Linn Records in 2010, this album is a harmonious blend of Kenneth Leighton's "Earth, Sweet Earth" and Benjamin Britten's "Winter Words," both set to the evocative poems of Thomas Hardy.

The album opens with Leighton's "Earth, Sweet Earth, Op. 94," a seven-movement suite that pays homage to the natural world. Each track, from the serene "Prelude" to the exuberant "Hurrahing in Harvest," showcases Gilchrist's emotive prowess and his ability to convey the composer's deep connection to the environment. The second half of the album features Britten's "Winter Words, Op. 52," a cycle of eight songs that delve into the stark beauty of winter and the passage of time. Gilchrist's nuanced interpretation brings out the subtle complexities of Britten's composition, making it a standout performance.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 3 minutes, this album is a testament to Gilchrist's versatility and his deep understanding of the choral and requiem genres. The collaboration with pianist Anna Tilbrook adds an extra layer of depth to the performances, making this a truly memorable listening experience. Whether you're a fan of choral music, requiems, or simply appreciate the art of song interpretation, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.