Not terribly much is known about Luca Marenzio, who died in 1599, but he is considered the greatest Italian master of the madrigal, and this CD is devoted to his ninth, and final, book of madrigals. The texts he chose are by some of the greatest poets who ever lived--Dante and Petrarch, to name just two--and his music, with its intricate rhythms, complex harmonies, exquisite dissonances, and endless suspensions, is of comparable glory. Here you'll find an overridingly melancholy mood: lovers mourning the loss or disaffection or departure of their beloveds, lovers awaiting or looking forward to or welcoming death--but what exquisite melancholy it is! La Venexiana are six singers--a soprano, mezzo, countertenor, two tenors, and bass--who breathe and sigh as one and whose blend is perfect: velvety, elegant, and even strident when needed. Occasional harpsichord and lute are invited in and add nicely to the mix. This is a gorgeous CD, perhaps not for everyone, but top of the line in its field. --Robert Levine
