2023 marks the 400th anniversary of the death of English composer, organist and choirmaster Thomas Weelkes (1576-1623). A composer whose presence on record is usually part and parcel of collections featuring choral music from various composers from the same era. So it's good to see a new recording espousing not only the choral music of Weelkes, but some of his instrumental creations as well. His music is generally simple and hymnic in character. Surprising when you consider that he was often castigated for heavy drinking and for using foul language. He became organist at Chichester Cathedral in 1601 where he eventually received the title of 'Gentleman of the Chapel Royal'. Along with Thomas Morley and William Byrd, he ranked as one of the best composers of madrigals in Europe.

The two Pavanes for instrumental ensemble, performed here by the Rose Consort of Viols, bring to mind the music of John Dowland or the type of music used for Tenebrae church services. And the two Voluntaries for organ, played here by Thomas Howell, like all early pipe organ works, resemble the music of one of Weelkes' Dutch contemporaries, Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck. Vocal music in the form of Anthems and Canticles, performed by the Choir of Chichester Cathedral, serves up the bulk of the music on this CD. It all comes across with simple veneration and praise, and a humble conveyance of joy.

Who needs a 1981 Delorean DMC-12 to time-travel. Just listen, relax and travel back 400 years without leaving your own comfy chair.