Canatamus is the 45 member female choir based in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire whose music is sure to appeal to fans of Adiemus and Sarah Brightman. With the release of the sublime Aurora, (Warner Music Ltd (UK) 8573-87312-2, 2001) Cantamus looked poised to take over the world of classical crossover. The director of Cantamus, Pamela Cook, studied at the Royal Academy of Music, London.

Aurora's nine tracks were composed by the gifted Sarah Class who deserves the highest praise for her melodious and lush compostitions. Ms. Class gained a BA (Hons) music degree from the Bishop Otter College in Sussex and since graduating Sarah has worked in Europe and North America on a number of film and TV projects.

Aurora is a vivid and striking collection of songs featuring the choir backed by the London Mozart Players. Opening with the hypnotic and epic "Aurora," the album transports listeners through a series of romantic and cinematique musical vignettes. "Summer Song," the second piece, is one of the most lovely songs this reviewer has had the pleasure of hearing in some time. Sounding like a poignant Simon and Garfunkel folk ballad arranged for orchestra, piano, solist, and choir, "Summer Song" recounts the emotions of life through the changing of the seasons.

The three tracks comprising the "Spanish Suite" (El Viaje, Astralucia, and Algun otro sitio) are picturesque and bold, combining spanish guitar, dense strings, and Gregorian flavored vocals.The three Closing tracks, Symphonie Lumiere, Beautiful Peace, and In My Dreams provide a serene and dreamy ending to the album.

Aurora is an exceptional neo-classical projectthat should appeal to a wide range of listeners. With its soundtrack-like splendour and vibrant vocal work, Aurora deserves a wide audience. Based upon this stunning release, We are eager to further work from Cantamus in the future.

Read further reviews, listen to soundbites and order the album from amazon.co.uk here.