Speaking of things folkie, I’ve really been enjoying Sing Lustily and with Good Courage by Maddy Prior and the Carnival Band. It is a collection of 18th and 19th century hymns played and in a vigorous, ‘folkie’ way — not an organ in sight. The album is an homage to the West Gallery style of hymnody rather than an attempt to recreate an historically accurate 18th century sound, and for my money it is all the better for that.
The title of the album, btw, comes from Wesley’s instructions on the singing of hymns: “Sing lustily and with good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength. Be no more afraid of your voice now, nor more ashamed of its being heard, then when you sung the songs of Satan.”
Amen!
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Ian McKenzie 02.25.06 at 4:24 pm
One of the favourites in my collection, I’ve currently got it in the car’s CD player. I also own one of their Christmas recordings, Tapestry of Carols, also a treat.
Richard 02.25.06 at 4:49 pm
You’re a fellow of fine taste, Ian.
Beth 02.25.06 at 5:10 pm
Tapestry of Carols is absolute Christmas nostalgia for me - my mum puts it on every Christmas, since as far back as I can remember! Steeleye Span have recently brought out a new Christmas one, too, if I remember correctly…