Vaughan Williams: Hymns / Owain Arwel Hughes, Cardiff Festival Choir, Robert Court

This single disc contains all 21 of Vaughan Williams' hymn settings. Though a self-described cheerful agnostic, the English composer was nevertheless hired early in his career to edit the English hymnal. In some cases, this meant finding and adapting old tunes. In others, it meant composing altogether new music that was yet deeply rooted in England's modes and melodies. In these performances by the Cardiff Festival Choir under Owain Arwel Hughes, the results are consistently, amazingly impressive. Even Vaughan Williams' most ardent advocates will be surprised at the high levels of inspiration and sincerity here, and they and new listeners will be caught unawares by the diversity of settings. Some, like the opening "For All the Saints," are full-blooded hymns of praise. Some, like "Rest of the Weary," are warmhearted songs of consolation. And some, like "I Vow to Thee My Country," are teary-eyed patriotic anthems. But whatever their expressive intent, they are all entirely persuasive in these robust performances. The Welsh choir gives the works their stalwart tone and complete devotion, and Hughes directs them with energy and skill. Originally issued in 1995 and reissued un-remastered here in 2008, the digital sound is vivid and evocative.