American Angels - Songs of Hope, Redemption, & Glory

by Rick AndersonFollowing what has become something of a standard rite of passage for vocal groups devoted to the music of the medieval and Renaissance periods, the four-voice female ensemble Anonymous 4 here explores the sacred hymnody of 18th- and 19th century America. Unlike, say, the Boston Camerata, however, the members of Anonymous 4 have something of a hard time leaving behind some of the stylistic accoutrements of their usual repertoire (niceties like rolled "R"s, artful dynamic shifts and perfectly accurate pitch) in their approach to this music, which needs none of them. But while their sometimes mannered delivery is occasionally a slight distraction, it never detracts significantly from the beauty of these great melodies, and the creamy perfection of their blend and purity and sweetness of their voices are an utter delight. Many of the songs on this program are standards and will be familiar to those who have spent any amount of time in a Protestant church, especially in the South: "Sweet Hour of Prayer" is one of the great hymns of the American church, and "Wondrous Love" and "Holy Manna" are both revival classics. And "Angel Band" is known to bluegrass fans as one of the great showcases for the voice of Ralph Stanley. Very highly recommended.