Sixteenth-century and early-17th-century choral writing is polyphony at its most fascinating and intricate. The Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, under Stephen Darlington's direction, sing here with absolute solidity and lovely tone, even from the trebles and boy altos. In addition to somewhat familiar works by the great Italian master Palestrina, we get three masses by the Spanish composer Victoria, a couple of masses and some motets by Lassus, and rare items by Morales and Esteves. Just sit back and let the rich texture of this haunting music wash over you--it's as uplifting as it is radiant. --Robert Levine