Sixteenth-century composer Clément Janequin wrote some (hundreds, actually) marvelous polyphonic chansons, 15 of which are artfully showcased on this fine CD. Janequin was among the more adept vocal composers of the period, and these pieces, which range from barely one minute to more than seven minutes in length, illustrate his mastery of both lyrical love songs and programmatic works that depict such things as birds (Le chant des oyseaulx), street cries (Les cris de Paris), and battle (La guerre). The Montreal-based boys choir, Les Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal, does a masterful job in some technically demanding music, delivering performances both highly spirited and virtuosic (especially in the programmatic pieces) and sensitively expressive–the lovely and poignant Doulens regretz, ennuys, souspirs is a notable example.
While the level of singing is generally impressive, there are several challenging passages throughout the program where the trebles’ intonation slightly flags–not a serious drawback, but noticeable nonetheless and a sign of these works’ sophistication and of the composer’s expectations regarding the capability of his intended performing forces. Listeners will appreciate the musical/theatrical effects in the bird, battle, and Paris street cries pieces, as well as the engaging melodies and warm harmonies in the love songs. The sound tends toward harshness in louder sections and begs for more clarity and warmth overall. But the rarely-performed repertoire is well worth hearing–early music fans especially will enjoy it.
