ORATORIO STAR OF BETHLEHEM OVER THE TATRAS [OUTLET 25]

Contrary to appearances, this album is different. It's not just another Christmas carol compilation from the "best of Christmas" series. The form of this artistic production – an oratorio containing symphonic pastorals, as the album's creators call them, and spoken texts – is, it must be admitted, unusual. Inspired by the highland culture, the unpretentious and exquisite lyrics by the passionate entrepreneur Wiesław Nowak, and the enchanting music of master Andrzej Zarycki, who, whatever he composes, is always top-notch, combine to create this compelling release. The performances by outstanding artists from Kraków and Zakopane, both musicians and actors, who perfectly capture and convey the Christmas spirit without unnecessary mawkishness or overly pious devotion, make "Star of Bethlehem over the Tatras" a pleasure to listen to, and some of the pastorals could easily be considered Christmas hits. Soloists Halina Jawor, Maria Nowak, Beata Paluch, Beata Rybotycka, and Anna Seman are the album's "beautiful" side. Jan Karpiel Bułecka and tenor Mateusz Prendota, though in the minority, equally aptly, each in their own way, capture the fleeting atmosphere of Jesus' birth. Add to this the parts read by Jerzy Trela, Jan Karpiel Bułecka, and Beata Paluch, and the recipe for musical success is ready. All of this is accompanied by sounds performed by the young and brilliant members of the "Passionart" choir and orchestra. Pastorals for choir and orchestra – this is music that truly sounds good, and in this case, the classical/folk combination is very successful. "Bethlehem Star over the Tatras" is especially recommended as a Christmas gift!