Again, the repertoire is not likely to be familiar to most listeners--the Vespers and some madrigals seem to get all the attention--and while it's not all equally compelling (the solo-tenor motet Currite populi is uninterestingly repetitive if well-sung by James Gilchrist)--the mass is of the highest caliber, with an especially lovely Agnus Dei (among the most beautiful settings anywhere) and a rousing Gloria. The rest of the program consists of solo and two-voice motets (some highly ornamented) and concludes with a Litany of the Blessed Virgin for six soloists, choir, and instruments. It's a grand, melodious, harmonically rich work with plenty of interaction among soloists and big moments for the choir. On evidence of the two volumes we've heard so far, there are simply no finer Monteverdi practitioners around these days--one glance at the list of singers (including the choir) and instrumentalists will tell you why!--and credit must go to Robert King for intelligent, stylish performances that not only enliven the music but enlighten listeners. On to Volume 3! [10/29/2004]