Iestyn Davies: Lamento – Sweet Sorrow

It soars, it shines, and it leaves listeners grasping for words. “It was as good as you are likely to hear, ever” said The Observer of the astonishing voice of countertenor Iestyn Davies, and in his Gramophone award-nominated 2021 album Lamento he joined forces with the viol ensemble Fretwork to explore one of the most poignant (but unsung) byways of 17th century music – the repertoire for countertenor and viols. The result is like a glimpse into the human heart: sometimes anguished, sometime joyous, but always beautiful and sung with profound commitment by one of the greatest voices of our time.

Tunder Salve mi Jesu (original by Rovetta)
JS Bach An Wasserflüßen Babylon
Scheidt Canzon super ‘O Nachbar Roland’
Geist Es war aber an der Stätte
Schein Suite from Banchetto Musicale No. 14
JC Bach Lamento
Buxtehude Jubilate Domino
Schein Suite from Banchetto Musicale No. 7
Schütz Erbarm dich mein
Scheidt Canzon super Cantionem Gallicam
Buxtehude Klaglied
Sances O dulce nomen

Iestyn Davies countertenor
Silas Wollston organ/virginals
Fretwork