Search - Musica Mystica :: Nostradamus: Music of His Renaissance

Pleasant despite not using early instruments

John H. Earl | Milford, VA United States | 10/14/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I was a bit put off when I heard what seem to be electronic guitars on the very first track. "Oh no," I thought, "one of these New Age interpretations of Renaissance music." But after those initial few seconds, most of the rest appeared to be non-electronic. For the purist, however, be aware that the performers use modern-day instruments, not period instruments or reproductions. As it says in the CD booklet, " .. in order to attempt to experience the music as did Nostradamus, 20th Century listeners would require 20th Century techniques and instruments used in a fashion that preserved a profound commttment to the true historical context and mystic side of the music." Hmmmm. Maybe true for *some* listeners, but certainly not for all. I'll admit the producers will probably sell more CDs as a result of this approach.The result is certainly pleasant as background music or for keeping you calm while driving. Well, I take the latter back - nothing could keep me calm on the roads around San Jose! It would be great at a Christmas party though. But if your real interest is in Renaissance music played on period instruments in a period style (such as the New York Pro Musica), you'll probably be disappointed."