O Poore DistractedWorld! English Songs and Anthems by Purcell, Locke, Blow, Croft … LES VOIX BAROQUES Alexander Weimann, direction ACD2 2630 • During 16th and 17th centuries, English music was highly original and unique both in its forms and its characteristic mood. Melancholy was the prevailing mood everywhere on the continent in those days, but it was particularly characteristic of the work of British intellectuals, writers, and composers — from the most obscure to the likes of Shakespeare, Dowland, Locke, Blow and Purcell.   The Anthems and Songs on this CD reveal some of the most touching pieces from this era. • Under the artistic direction of Matthew White, Les Voix Baroques is an ensemble of vocal soloists that works in conjunction with prominent instrumentalists, ensembles and music directors to present vocal works from, and related to, the Renaissance and Baroque, in formats ranging from traditional concerts to fully staged operatic events. • Currently artistic director of the Pacific Baroque Orchestra, Alexander Weimann is one of the most sought after ensemble leaders, soloists, and chamber music partners of his generation.   He has traveled the world as member of Tragicomedia, as guest of Freiburger Barockorchester, Gesualdo Consort, Tafelmusik, and as music director of Les Voix Baroques and Le Nouvel Opéra. LES VOIX BAROQUES Yulia Van Doren, Shannon Mercer, sopranos Matthew White, alto; Charles Daniels, tenor Tyler Duncan, baritone; Robert MacDonald, bass Musicians Chloe Meyers, Chantal Rémillard, violins Natalie Mackay, violone, Scott Metcalfe, viola Amanda Keesmaat, cello, Matthew Jennejohn, oboe Sylvain Bergeron, lute, Alexander Weimann, harpsichord & direction Martin Peerson (v.1572-1651)   1. Anthem O let me at Thy Footstool fall John Coperario   2. O Poore Distratected world Henry Purcell   3. Anthem Let mine eyes run down with tears Robert Ramsey (?-1644)   4. Anthem In guilty night Thomas Lupo (1571-1627)   5. Anthem O Lord come pity my complaint Matthew Locke (1622-1677)   6. Anthem The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble Henry Purcell   7. Anthem In guilty night John Blow (1649-1708)   8.Anthem I said in the cutting off of my days John Milton (v.1563-1647)   9. Anthem If that a sinner's sighs Robert Ramsey (?-1644) Henry Purcell (1659-1695) 10. Anthem I will give thanks unto Thee, o Lord William Croft (1678-1727) 11. Anthem Rejoice in the Lord Thomas Weelkes (1576-1623) 12. Anthem O happy he whom Thou protect' st ATMA Classique is distributed in Australia by Rockian Trading PO Box 44, Briar Hill, Vic, 3088, Australia Telephone +61 (0)3 9432 4149 ~ Facsimile +61 (0)3 9444 6879