Antonio Lotti: Crucifixus

Despite a hugely prolific output over a career of more than 50 years, Antonio Lotti is now known almost exclusively for his eight part setting of the Crucifixus. That motet is in fact part of a setting of the complete Credo, itself part of the Missa Sancti Christophori that appears in this premier recording. Lottis music was written for Venices San Marco at a time when expense and extravagance were not spared. He often wrote daringly for much bigger forces than was regular; there presents the challenge in reviving Lottis music. Rhythmic shock and awe, masterful variety, incessant invention and a defiant refusal to conform to any one genre makes this music over-ripe for revival considering modern audiences eclectic appetites. Lottis use of modulation and structure is at the cutting edge of the galant style that prefigures the Classical era; his harmonies can be surprising, daring even outrageous. For their first recording on Delphian, Ben Palmers The Syred Consort and Orchestra of St Paul's have collaborated with musicologist Ben Byram-Wigfield to bring this small survey of Lotti's music to life. Palmers singers dazzle in virtuosic vocal lines, and the instrumental ensemble plays as though one. There is excitement. There is hushed poignancy. And throughout there is Lottis luscious harmony, which makes this music nothing short of addictive.