Josquin Desprez: Messes

Joasquin Desprez was a Renaissance composer whose works were the most famous of his time outside of Dufay and Palestrina. Desprezs most famous mass is featured on this release, his Missa pang lingua. The work is based on the hymn written by Thomas Aquinas for the Vespers of Corpus Christi. This was more than likely Desprezs last mass. The works elaborate polyphony makes it a high point of Renaissance music. The included booklet includes detailed program notes, as well as a charming interview with the composer. Ensemble Metamorphoses et Biscantor was formed in 1983 by still-director Maurice Bourbon. The group specializes in a cappella repertoire.