This Endris Night

This Endris Night
Heather Dale
Amphisbaena Music
(AM897)

So many of the songs we take for granted around the holidays have their origins in the hymns and madrigals of medieval music. Thus, it seems fitting that This Endris Night (an old term that means "this other night") should bring these classic carols back to their medieval roots. However, the multi-talented Heather Dale has crafted a collection of music that far surpasses their association with the holiday season.

The rich variety of instruments featured on the CD-combined with the lustrous qualities of Dale's voice-make for a resplendent combination that perfectly suits the featured songs. The choices themselves are an eclectic mix, ranging from popular favorites, such as "Good King Wenceslas" and "The Holly and the Ivy" to more unusual pieces, such as the "Huron Carol." Most date from between the 12th to 17th centuries, and where more familiar modern lyrics have been used, the older original version is also performed, providing a new dimension for today's audiences.

Beginning with a classic "Ave Maria," Dale's voice, at first almost a capella-but later accompanied by bells, recorders, and bodhran drum-sounds almost angelic, a fitting tribute to the Annunciation that the hymn recalls.
" Es ist ein' Ros'" brings out the poetical qualities inherent to these hymns, with soft accompaniment and lovely lyrics. "I Saw Three Ships/Song of the Ship" is a fusion of two separate carols with similar themes. With the rollicking quality of a sea chanty, they entice the listener to sing along.

On the other hand, "Huron Carol" presents a rarely seen side of history with a carol written in French, English, and the indigenous language of the Huron tribe, which reflects the efforts of French missionaries to convert Native Americans to Christianity. The uniqueness of this carol makes it a highlight of the CD. "Good King Wenceslas/Flower Carol" includes both the more familiar 19th-century lyrics and the lovely 13th-century ode to the end of winter and the coming of spring.

Transporting the listener back in time, This Endris Night is a radiant anthology of medieval music that is appropriate listening for any time of year and a worthwhile investment for any music collector.

--Richard Mackenzie