Unlike Bernius, whose massive forces routinely obscure the often intricate interplay between the vocal and instrumental parts, Konrad Junghanel's significantly more modest though infinitely more inspired ensembles are capable of revealing the works' abundant wealth of harmonic and textural detail. Among the 21 settings are many highlights, such as the pensively emotive "O süsser Jesu Christ" (with soprano duets strikingly reminiscent of the much later Leçons de ténèbres of François Couperin), and the dramatically intense "Saul, Saul, pourquoi me persecuter", which demonstrate that even in his 65th year Schütz was quite capable of composing remarkably versatile, compelling, and innovative works.

Schütz is equally well served by Harmonia Mundi's engineers, who provide exceptionally detailed, wholly convincing sonics. Urgently recommended to all Schütz enthusiasts--and especially to those who've previously doubted the importance and brilliance of Op. 12 in the composer's canon.