by Paul Matheson

The Gesualdo Six is an award winning British vocal ensemble comprising Guy James, Alexander Chance (countertenor); Joseph Wicks, Josh Cooter (tenor); Michael Cradock (baritone); Samuel Mitchell (bass) and their director Owain Park (bass). The ensemble formed in 2014 for a performance of Gesualdo’s Tenebrae Responsories in Cambridge, and it has gone on to perform at numerous major festivals across the UK, Europe, and beyond. Videos of the ensemble performing various pieces filmed in Ely Cathedral have been watched by millions online. Reviewers consistently praise The Gesualdo Six’s imaginative programming of a-cappella choral music, which mixes classic renaissance sacred repertoire with modern choral compositions. Fading is their third CD release.

Since the fourth century, the religious service of Compline has marked the end of the day, ushering in the darkness of the night. The inspiration for Fading and for much of the music within it, comes from the ancient service of Compline. The first half of the album features a selection of atmospheric works that conjure the emotion of transition between light and darkness. Then there is a turning point; the light returns, birds sing, and flowers bloom once more.