South of the Line: Choral Music by John Joubert

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of choral music with "South of the Line: Choral Music by John Joubert." Released on March 17, 2017, under the esteemed SOMM Recordings label, this album is a testament to the remarkable compositional prowess of John Joubert. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this collection of choral works is a journey through the diverse and profound expressions of the human experience.

The album opens with "O Praise God in His Holiness, Op. 52," setting a tone of reverence and awe that continues through pieces like "O Lorde, the Maker of Al Thing, Op. 7b" and "There Is No Rose, Op. 14." Joubert's ability to weave intricate vocal lines and harmonies is evident in the three-part "Incantation, Op. 22," which includes the hauntingly beautiful "I Saw a Staring Virgin" and the poignant "In Pity for Man’s Darkening Thought."

The album also features the evocative "Pilgrimage Song, Op. 169," and the charming "3 Portraits, Op. 97," dedicated to Mistress Isabel Pennell, Mistress Margery Wentworth, and Mistress Margaret Hussey. Each portrait is a delicate and nuanced exploration of character and emotion.

Joubert's versatility is further showcased in pieces like "Be Not Afeard, Op. 179," a stirring call to courage, and "Sonnet, Op. 123," a lyrical and introspective work. The album concludes with a poignant selection from "South of the Line, Op. 109," including "Embarcation," "A Wife in London," "Drummer Hodge," "The Man He Killed," and the intriguing "A Christmas Ghost Story."

"South of the Line" is a profound exploration of Joubert's choral compositions, offering a rich tapestry of musical expression that will resonate with any lover of choral music.