The Hilliard Ensemble - The Merry Companions

Saga - LP
UK, 1981
Baroque / Classical / Folk

Another great release from the short-lived Antiqua Series on Saga, this time offering a broad take on 16th-17th century « bawdy » social music, from anonymous writers to Purcell and Arne. Songs equally appreciated in taverns than in gentlemen’s houses, but nonetheless sophisticated.

Led by the great Paul Hillier (who both specialized in early and contemporary music by the likes of Arvo Pärt, and thus is responsible for some great ECM New Series recordings), the Hilliard Ensemble showcases here the complexity of vocal arrangements of 16th century social music. Departing from the refined and unlicentious music played on this other Saga record, this Merry Companions LP explores the long tradition of risqué songs that would be severely disregarded in the Victorian age, and cause much disdain for 16th-17th Century composers then. Pure Hogarthian vibes (NM/VG+)

Tracklist

1. By A Bank I Lay
2. Tho' I Am Young
3. Lost Is My Quiet
4. We Be Three Poor Mariners
5. Sweeter Than Roses
6. I Spy Celia
7. Since Time So Kind To Us Does Prove
8. Orpheus And Euridice
9. Here's That Will Challenge All The Fair
10. Which Is The Properest Day To Drink
11. Chloe Found Amyntas
12. Here Lies A Woman
13. On Thy Banks, Gentle Sour
14. So Well Corinna Likes The Joy
15. My Man John - A Riddle
16. The Street Intrigue
17. When The Cock Begins To Crow