This album by German counter tenor
Andreas Scholl includes two complete Bach cantatas and movements of several others. The best-known is the solo cantata Ich habe genug, BWV 82, a serene meditation on the ending of life, surrendering oneself into God's hands. Even though the first and last arias are in minor keys they convey not sadness but joyful anticipation of being freed from the suffering of the world. Gott soll allein mein Herze haben, BWV 169, is a more buoyant expression of gratitude for God's blessings. It's a larger work featuring an introductory eight-minute sinfonia for strings and organ, and a four-part chorale for the final movement. Throughout,
Scholl sings with limpid lyricism and a clear, even tone. His coloratura is immaculate and his voice floats with apparent effortlessness through Bach's shapely melismas. His performance is a beautiful blend of keenly expressive singing with a calm dignity.
Kammerorchester Basel, a period instrument ensemble, plays with exquisite musicality. The oboe solo that opens Ich habe genug, for instance, is a model of poised elegance that sounds absolutely spontaneous. The group produces an exceptionally colorful sound, particularly when winds are involved, and the single aria from "Schlage doch, gewünschte Stunde" is punctuated by bell-like high metals, to wonderful effect. The sound is clear, detailed, and nicely ambient.