Lully: Grands Motets

Dive into the resplendent world of French Baroque music with Jean-Baptiste Lully's "Grands Motets," a stunning collection of sacred choral works that showcase the composer's mastery and innovation. Released in 2016 by Phaia Music, this album features 27 tracks that span a captivating 52 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of sound that transports listeners to the opulent courts of 17th-century France.

Jean-Baptiste Lully, a pivotal figure in the musical landscape of his time, was renowned for his compositions that seamlessly blended sacred and secular elements. His "Grands Motets" are a testament to his genius, often setting psalms and texts by neo-Latin poet Pierre Perrin to music that is both profound and uplifting. This album, meticulously performed by ensembles such as Le Concert Spirituel and Ensemble Athénaïs, brings to life the grandeur and intricacy of Lully's compositions.

The album opens with the jubilant "Jubilate Deo omnis terra" and continues with a series of motets that highlight Lully's skill in crafting intricate choral textures and orchestral arrangements. Standout tracks include the powerful "Miserere mei Deus" and the triumphant "Quare fremuerunt gentes," each showcasing the composer's ability to convey a range of emotions through his music.

Recorded in the acoustically superb Chapel Royal at Versailles, this album benefits from the rich, resonant sound that is characteristic of the venue. The performances are impeccable, with fine soloists, an excellent chorus, and instrumentalists who understand the nuances of Lully's style. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, "Lully: Grands Motets" offers a captivating journey into the world of one of France's most influential composers.